The Shawwal moon was not sighted in Saudi Arabia, leading to Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations there on March 20. UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain have also announced Eid on the same day. Due to geographical differences, India will observe Eid on March 21.
Saudi Arabia's Supreme Court declared Thursday as the last day of Ramadan and announced Eid-ul-Fitr on Friday, March 20. This follows the Shawwal moon not being sighted on March 18, 2026, meaning no Eid on March 19 there. The United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Bahrain have similarly set March 20 for Eid. According to Aaj Tak reporting from New Delhi, updated on March 18, 2026. Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan and falls on the first day of Shawwal in the Islamic calendar. Moon sighting timings vary due to geographical locations, with Gulf countries observing it a day earlier than India. Consequently, India will celebrate Eid on March 21. On this day, Muslims will offer prayers at mosques, exchange greetings, prepare sweets like seviyan and kheer, and share with relatives. Tradition includes giving sadqa-e-fitr to aid the needy. Islamic belief holds that Prophet Muhammad won the Battle of Badr on this day, initiating the custom of sweet celebrations.
