As the first week of Ramadan passes in the United Arab Emirates, residents are already looking ahead to Eid Al Fitr — the festival marking the end of the holy month and one of the longest public holidays of the year.
In the Islamic Hijri calendar, Ramadan is the ninth month and lasts either 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon. Eid Al Fitr is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal.
Moon Sighting Date
The UAE’s Moon-Sighting Committee will observe the skies on March 18 (29th of Ramadan) to determine the end of the month.
Although the exact date depends on moon sighting, residents with a Saturday-Sunday weekend are expected to receive a four-day break in either scenario.
Scenario 1: Moon Sighted on March 18
If the crescent moon is spotted on the evening of March 18:
- Eid Al Fitr: Thursday, March 19
- Public holiday: March 19–21 (Thursday, Friday, Saturday)
- Including Sunday, residents would enjoy a four-day break
Scenario 2: Moon Not Sighted
If the moon is not sighted, Ramadan will complete 30 days:
- Eid Al Fitr: Friday, March 20
- The 30th day of Ramadan will also be a public holiday
- Public holiday: March 19–22 (Thursday to Sunday)
- This scenario also results in a four-day weekend.
Astronomical Projections
According to Khadijah Ahmad, Operations Manager at the Dubai Astronomy Group, astronomical calculations indicate Ramadan is likely to last 30 days this year, placing Eid Al Fitr on Friday, March 20.
This projection aligns with the prayer timings calendar published by the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, which lists 30 days for Ramadan and shows Shawwal 1 falling on March 20.
