ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) announced that Eid al-Fitr 2026 will probably occur on March 20 in Pakistan, which conflicts with earlier predictions.
The Shawwal crescent will not become visible on March 19, which marks the 29th day of Ramadan 1447 AH. The PMD predicts that the Shawwal new moon will appear at 6 23 PM on March 19, 2026.
The moon will reach 12 to 13 hours after sunset because this age range is considered unfit for crescent sighting. The department established that there is no chance of seeing the Shawwal crescent on March 19, which means that Ramadan will last for 30 days.
If the astronomical prediction proves accurate, Eid al-Fitr will take place on March 20, 2026, after the crescent sighting on the following evening.
Astronomers predict this event will occur, but the Pakistan Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will make the official announcement.
The holy month of Ramadan commenced throughout the country on February 19, 2026, after the committee confirmed the crescent sighting on February 18. Eid holidays form one of the major public holidays in Pakistan, which people celebrate twice annually during Eid ul-Fitr and Eid ul-Adha.
The holidays extend beyond work and school breaks because they possess significant religious and social, and cultural importance.
