Eid ul Fitr will be celebrated on March 20, 2026, in Saudi Arabia, following the confirmation that the Shawwal moon was not sighted. This announcement has significant implications for the observance of the holiday in both Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, where public holidays have been declared.

The Punjab government in Pakistan has announced public holidays from March 19 to March 21, 2026, allowing for a total of five days off when including the weekend and the holiday for Pakistan Day on March 23. The federal government has also confirmed March 20 and 21 as public holidays for Eid ul Fitr.

Historically, Eid ul Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting for Muslims, and is celebrated with communal prayers, feasting, and charitable giving. In 2026, Muslims are expected to observe 30 days of Ramadan.

While Saudi Arabia has confirmed the date based on the moon sighting, uncertainties remain regarding the exact date in Pakistan. The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission initially predicted Eid ul Fitr to likely fall on March 21, 2026. The final decision will depend on the sighting of the Shawwal crescent, which is traditionally confirmed by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.

On March 19, 2026, the new moon will be approximately 12 hours and 41 minutes old at sunset, with an estimated 28 minutes between sunset and moonset along Pakistan’s coastal areas. These astronomical details play a crucial role in determining the exact date for Eid ul Fitr.

As the holiday approaches, many in Pakistan are looking forward to the celebrations, but details remain unconfirmed regarding the final date. Observers will await the official announcement from the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, which is responsible for moon sighting confirmations.