As Ramadan nears its final days, Muslims around the world eagerly anticipate Eid-ul-Fitr, the festival that marks the end of a month of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection.
This year, Ramadan began in Saudi Arabia on March 1, 2025, and in India on March 2, 2025, following the sighting of the crescent moon. Since the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, the exact date of Eid-ul-Fitr depends on the moon sighting, marking the beginning of the month of Shawwal.
Expected Eid Dates in Saudi Arabia and India
- In Saudi Arabia:
- If the crescent moon is sighted on March 29, Eid will be celebrated on March 30.
- If not, Eid will fall on March 31.
- In India:
- If the moon is sighted on March 30, Eid will be on March 31.
- If not, Eid will be observed on April 1.
Why Moon Sighting Matters for Eid
The Islamic calendar is lunar-based, with months lasting either 29 or 30 days. Eid-ul-Fitr falls on the first day of Shawwal, and its date varies annually based on moon sightings confirmed by religious authorities.
Significance of Eid-ul-Fitr
Eid-ul-Fitr, meaning the “festival of breaking the fast,” is a time of gratitude, generosity, and community gatherings. It is one of the most significant celebrations in Islam and follows a month of fasting and devotion during Ramadan.
Around 70 days after Eid-ul-Fitr, Muslims observe Eid-ul-Adha, also known as the “Feast of Sacrifice,” which coincides with the completion of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca.
