Eid ul Fitr in Pakistan is expected to be observed on March 21, 2026, as the holy month of Ramadan is likely to complete 30 days. Experts believe the chances of sighting the Shawwal crescent on the evening of March 19 are relatively low.
According to Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission, the new moon for Shawwal will be formed on March 19, 2026, at 06:23 PST.
At sunset on the same day, the moon will be around 12 hours and 41 minutes old, while the difference between sunset and moonset along Pakistan’s coastal areas is expected to be approximately 28 minutes. Based on these astronomical conditions, the likelihood of spotting the crescent that evening is considered low.
If the moon is not sighted, the first day of Shawwal — marking Eid ul Fitr — is anticipated to fall on Saturday, March 21.
However, the official announcement will be made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, which has the authority to confirm the sighting of the crescent and declare the start of Eid celebrations across the country.
Muslims around the world celebrate Eid ul Fitr with great devotion after observing a month of fasting, prayer, and charity during Ramadan.
In Pakistan, the first fast of Ramadan 2026 began on February 19 following the announcement by Abdul Khabeer Azad that the crescent moon had been sighted.
Islamic months typically last 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the new moon. Because the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles and is about 10 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, the dates of Ramadan and Eid shift earlier each year.
