The International Astronomy Centre has announced that Eid Al Fitr in the UAE is likely to begin on Monday, 31 March, as astronomical calculations indicate that the crescent moon of Shawwal may not be visible on Saturday, 29 March.
According to the experts, even with advanced telescopes, sighting the moon will be nearly impossible due to its angular distance from the sun and low position on the horizon. A partial solar eclipse occurring at noon in parts of the Arab world will further hinder moon sighting.
With the moon not visible, astronomers predict Ramadan will complete 30 days, making Eid Al Fitr most likely on Monday, 31 March. While the expert report states some countries may still declare Eid on 30 March, the official decision will be based on the UAE’s moon-sighting committee meeting on 29 March.
To know what it means for the Eid holidays for federal employees and private sector workers, check the stories by Connector here and here.