Khaberni - The timing of the eve of Eid al-Fitr 2026 tops the interests of Muslims with the end of Ramadan approaching, amid astronomical predictions determining the first days of the holiday and official vacations.
Search for the timing of the eve of Eid al-Fitr and the first days of the holiday is increasing, as Muslims in various Arab countries prepare to celebrate the end of the fasting month. According to the astronomical calculations for this year, the eve of Eid al-Fitr is expected to coincide with Thursday, March 19, 2026, followed by Friday, March 20, 2026, marking the start of Shawwal and the first day of the blessed Eid al-Fitr.
This date comes after fasting Ramadan, which is expected to be 29 or 30 days long according to astronomical estimates, while the official announcement depends on the decision of the Fatwa House in each country after sighting the crescent of Shawwal on the twenty-ninth night of Ramadan.
According to the astronomical estimates for 2026, the eve of Eid al-Fitr falls on Thursday, March 19, which is the day before Eid when Muslims complete their preparations, while Friday, March 20, is the first day of Eid al-Fitr, coinciding with the beginning of Shawwal.
On this day, Muslims exchange greetings, perform Eid prayers in mosques and open squares, adhering to the customs and traditions followed in each country.
The official holiday for workers and students in several Arab countries, such as Egypt and the UAE, often begins from the eve, providing families the opportunity to spend time with family and friends, and prepare for the activities accompanying the days of Eid.
Ramadan 2026 began on Tuesday, February 17, and the astronomical estimates indicate that it will last 29 or 30 days, to be officially determined according to the sighting of the crescent on the twenty-ninth night of the month, as announced by the relevant religious authorities in each country.
This preliminary estimation helps various groups to organize their Ramadan activities and prepare for Eid early, whether through preparing meals for Iftar and Suhoor, or preparing to buy clothes and traditional Eid sweets.
