Saudi Arabia has officially announced that Eid Al-Fitr will begin on Sunday, March 30, 2025, following the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon earlier in the evening. The declaration marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan and the beginning of the Islamic month of Shawwal.
Moon Sighting Confirms Eid Date
Eid Al-Fitr is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, which follows the lunar Islamic calendar. Since Islamic months last either 29 or 30 days based on moon sighting, the confirmation of the crescent moon’s visibility means that Ramadan will conclude in 29 days this year.
Earlier, Saudi authorities had called upon Muslims across the country to look for the new moon on the 29th night of Ramadan. The sighting of the crescent moon marks the beginning of Eid celebrations, during which Muslims around the world come together for prayers, feasts, and charitable giving.
Extended Holiday for Private and Non-Profit Sectors
In addition to announcing the date for Eid, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has declared a four-day public holiday for employees in the private and non-profit sectors. The holiday will start on Sunday, March 30, and continue through Wednesday, April 2. Work is set to resume on Thursday, April 3.
Since the weekend in Saudi Arabia falls on Friday and Saturday, the break effectively extends to six days for many employees, offering an extended period of celebration and family gatherings.
Nationwide Celebrations Expected
With the official announcement, preparations for Eid festivities will be in full swing across the country. Traditionally, the holiday begins with special prayers at mosques and open prayer grounds, followed by gatherings of family and friends, the exchange of gifts, and acts of charity.
Saudi Arabia, home to Islam’s two holiest sites in Makkah and Madinah, is expected to witness large congregational prayers as millions of worshippers gather for the occasion. The government has also made arrangements to accommodate the expected surge in travel as residents and expatriates visit family members across the kingdom.
Regional Announcements to Follow
As Saudi Arabia’s moon sighting is often used as a reference for other Muslim-majority nations, several neighboring countries are expected to follow suit and declare Eid on the same day. However, some countries may base their Eid dates on local moon sightings, leading to slight variations in the date of the celebration.
With the official confirmation now in place, Saudi Arabia prepares to welcome Eid Al-Fitr 2025 with joy, marking the culmination of a month of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection.
