By Our Correspondent
National News – Authorities in Saudi Arabia have officially declared Friday, March 20, 2026, as the day Muslims will celebrate Eid‑el‑Fitr after confirming that the crescent moon marking the end of Ramadan was not sighted on Wednesday evening.
The announcement signals the conclusion of the fasting period for millions of Muslims around the world.
The declaration was shared through official updates by HaraminInfo on social media, stating that moon-sighting teams across the kingdom failed to observe the crescent despite widespread monitoring efforts.
Authorities noted that weather conditions, including cloud cover and rainfall in several regions, made the observation difficult at key monitoring locations.
Observers tracked the skies from cities across the kingdom, including Dammam—often regarded as the first point where the Eid moon is expected to appear—and Tabuk, which traditionally marks the final observation zone.
However, reports indicated that cloudy skies persisted at many observation sites, preventing confirmation of the crescent moon.
Because the moon was not sighted, Islamic authorities confirmed that the holy month of Ramadan will complete its 30th day on Thursday, making Friday the official date for Eid-el-Fitr celebrations in the kingdom.
The festival is one of the most significant events in the Islamic calendar and is marked by special prayers, charity, family gatherings, and festive meals.
The announcement is significant for many Muslim-majority countries that often look to Saudi Arabia’s moon-sighting results when determining the end of Ramadan.
In Nigeria, however, the official declaration will come from the Sultanate Council led by the Sultan of Sokoto.
As of the time of filing this report, Nigerian Muslims are awaiting confirmation from the Sultan regarding the sighting of the crescent moon within the country.
The announcement will determine whether Eid-el-Fitr will be observed on the same day as Saudi Arabia or on a different date based on local moon-sighting reports.
Eid-el-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, a sacred month devoted to fasting, prayer, charity, and reflection for Muslims worldwide.
The celebration begins with a special congregational prayer followed by acts of generosity and visits among family and friends.
