Saudi Arabia Announces Shawwal Crescent Sighting Date for Eid al-Fitr 2026
The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia has officially announced the call for the sighting of the Shawwal crescent, which will determine the date of Eid al-Fitr for the year 2026. This critical religious observation is scheduled for the evening of Wednesday, March 18, 2026, corresponding to the 29th day of Ramadan in the Islamic year 1447 AH.
Crescent Observation to Determine Eid Date
According to the announcement, residents and accredited committees across the kingdom are urged to submit verified sightings of the crescent moon through approved judicial channels. The outcome of this observation will confirm whether Eid al-Fitr will be celebrated on Thursday, March 19, 2026, or if Ramadan will complete its full thirty days, pushing the celebration to Friday, March 20, 2026.
Moon sighting remains the fundamental basis for determining the Islamic calendar in Saudi Arabia, with official confirmation guiding national observance and religious practices. Religious authorities have emphasized that accurate reporting is essential, as this decision will directly affect prayer schedules, public holidays, and travel plans throughout the country.
Four-Day Holiday Announced for Private Sector Workers
In a related development, Saudi authorities have already announced the official Eid al-Fitr holiday for workers in the private and non-profit sectors. The holiday period will commence at the end of the working day on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, and will last for four days in accordance with provisions contained in the Saudi Labour Law.
Mohammed Al Ruzaiqi, spokesperson for the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, explained that this early announcement was made to help companies and workers prepare adequately for the festive period. The notice allows organizations to adjust work schedules while maintaining essential services in critical sectors, ensuring that employees can enjoy their entitled holiday without uncertainty.
Labour Law Provisions and Compensation Guidelines
Al Ruzaiqi reminded employers to strictly follow Article 24 of the executive regulations of the Saudi Labour Law, which covers the observance of official holidays and guarantees workers paid leave during religious and national celebrations. The ministry also clarified important compensation guidelines:
- Workers may receive compensation if official holidays coincide with their weekly rest days.
- Employees required to work during the Eid holiday due to operational needs must receive appropriate compensation as stipulated by labour regulations.
Regional Impact and Similar Announcements
The Saudi announcement is expected to influence Eid observance in several Muslim countries that traditionally align with Saudi Arabia's moon sighting determinations. Similar announcements have been made in other Gulf nations, including the United Arab Emirates, where authorities have confirmed that federal government employees will observe the Eid holiday from Thursday, March 19 through Sunday, March 22, 2026.
This coordinated approach across the region helps ensure consistency in religious observance and facilitates planning for multinational organizations and families with connections across different Muslim-majority countries. The final confirmation of the exact Eid date is expected later on Wednesday night, March 18, 2026, after which the kingdom will formally announce the day of Eid al-Fitr celebrations.
