Eid al-Fitr 2026: Date Confirmed for Saudi Arabia and Expected Dates for India

The most celebrated festival of the Muslim community, Eid al-Fitr, will begin on Friday, March 20, 2026, in Saudi Arabia, following the announcement that the Shawwal crescent moon was not sighted on Wednesday, March 18th according to the Saudi Supreme Court. This marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan after 30 days of fasting.

Saudi Arabia Confirms Eid Date

The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development announced holidays for Eid for employees in the private and non-profit sectors will begin on Wednesday, March 18th, and last for four days as reported by Gulf News. This announcement provides clarity for employers and employees ahead of the holiday period.

Expected Date in India

In India, the sighting of the crescent moon on March 19th will determine the date of Eid celebrations. Typically, India observes Eid a day after Saudi Arabia due to geographical differences in moon visibility as noted by the Times of India. If the moon is sighted on March 19th, Eid celebrations in India are expected to begin on March 21st.

Significance of Eid al-Fitr

Eid al-Fitr, also known as the “Festival of Breaking the Rapid,” marks the end of Ramadan. It is observed on the first three days of Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic Hijri calendar. The moon sighting holds deep religious importance, as the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, and each new month begins only after the crescent is seen according to the Times of India.

Eid-ul-Fitr: ‘Meethi Eid’

Eid-Ul-Fitr is often called ‘Meethi Eid’, which literally means “Sweet Eid” as reported by the Times of India.