When is Eid al-Fitr 2026? This is Astronomy Experts' Prediction

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. It is important to note that whilst Ramadan generally lasts one month, the number of days can vary.

Experts predict there will be differences in determining 1 Shawwal 1447 H or Eid al-Fitr 2026 across the world. This variation is influenced by each country’s geographical location, which affects the position of the hilal or crescent moon.

In the United Arab Emirates, Eid al-Fitr is estimated to fall on Friday, 20 March 2026, according to astronomical calculations announced by the Sharjah Academy of Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology, as reported by Gulf News. The UAE itself begins Ramadan on 18 February 2026, the same as Muhammadiyah members in Indonesia.

Astronomers explain that on Wednesday, 18 March, coinciding with the 29th day of Ramadan and the night for observing the hilal, the crescent moon will not be visible because the moon will set before the sun sets on the western horizon. As a result, the UAE will still observe Ramadan that evening, meaning Thursday, 19 March, will be the final day of Ramadan.

Despite these parameters, experts describe moon observation conditions in the UAE as unfavourable. This means that observing the crescent moon will be extremely difficult, even with a telescope.

Nevertheless, the hilal has the potential to be visible in some areas to the west of Arab countries, where geographical and astronomical conditions may be more favourable.

Meanwhile, several countries that rely solely on the hilal method—physical moon observation—are likely to mark the beginning of Shawwal or Eid al-Fitr on Saturday, 21 March 2026, depending on their local observations.