Shawwal Moon Not Sighted, Eidul Fitr on March 21
The Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee convened in Islamabad on Thursday evening and announced that the Shawwal moon had not been sighted anywhere in Pakistan. As a result, the country will complete 30 days of Ramadan, and Eidul Fitr will be celebrated on Saturday, March 21, 2026 .
The meeting, chaired by Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, was attended by members from across the country, including representatives of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the Meteorological Department, and the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO). Zonal committee meetings were also held simultaneously in Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, and Quetta .
Committee Chairman’s Message
Addressing the nation after the announcement, Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad confirmed that no credible evidence of moon sighting was received from any part of the country. He urged the nation to celebrate Eid with unity, simplicity, and religious fervor .
The chairman also reminded Pakistanis to remember the ongoing situation in Iran, Kashmir, and other conflict zones in their prayers . “Eid is a day of happiness, but we must not forget our brothers and sisters facing hardships elsewhere,” he said .
Tonight: A Night of Worship
With the announcement, tonight will mark the 30th and final day of Ramadan. Across Pakistan, the faithful will observe Chand Raat—the night of the moon—engaging in prayers, recitation of the Quran, and last-minute preparations for the festivities . The tradition of searching for the moon continues, and the night is also marked by the payment of Fitrana (obligatory charity) before the Eid prayers .
Eid Prayers and Celebrations
Eidul Fitr prayers will be held across the country on Saturday morning. Major congregations are expected at:
Faisal Mosque, Islamabad
Badshahi Mosque, Lahore
Grand Jamia Mosque, Karachi
Various open grounds and Eidgahs in cities and towns nationwide
Authorities have urged citizens to adhere to local security guidelines and enjoy the celebrations responsibly .
International Eid Dates
While Pakistan will celebrate Eid on Saturday, other countries may observe the holiday on Friday depending on their local moon sightings. Saudi Arabia and several other Gulf nations were expected to announce their Eid dates following their own moon-sighting committees’ decisions .
