The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has forecast that Eid-ul-Fitr 2025 will likely be observed on Monday, March 31, in Pakistan and most Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia, as the Shawwal crescent is expected to be sighted on March 30.
Moon Sighting Predictions for Pakistan
According to SUPARCO, the new moon of Shawwal 1446 AH will form on March 29 at 3:58 PM (Pakistan Standard Time). However, visibility on the same evening is unlikely due to the moon’s young age.
By sunset on March 30, the moon will be approximately 27 hours old, with an altitude of 14 degrees and 2% illumination, making it easily visible across Pakistan if weather conditions are clear. Based on these calculations, Ramadan 2025 is expected to last 29 days, with Eid-ul-Fitr falling on March 31.
Moon Sighting Prospects in Saudi Arabia
For Saudi Arabia, SUPARCO stated that the crescent sighting on March 29 is highly unlikely, as the moon will only be five hours old at sunset in Makkah. Therefore, the Shawwal moon is expected to be visible in the Kingdom and other Middle Eastern nations on March 30, meaning Eid-ul-Fitr will also be celebrated on March 31 in the region.
Final Decision Pending Ruet-e-Hilal Committee’s Confirmation
While SUPARCO’s scientific analysis strongly suggests a clear sighting on March 30, the final announcement will be made by Pakistan’s Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, which will convene on March 30 to assess moon sighting reports.
Eid Holidays Announced
Meanwhile, the federal government has already announced a three-day public holiday for Eid-ul-Fitr, from March 31 to April 2.
As the Islamic calendar relies on moon sightings, the official Eid date will be confirmed after the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee’s meeting. If the crescent is sighted as predicted, Muslims in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia will celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr on the same day—March 31, 2025.
Also read: KP CM directs comprehensive Eid-ul-Fitr arrangements
