The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia has urged Muslims across the Saudi Arabia to look out for the crescent moon that will signal the beginning of Shawwal 1447 AH.
In a statement issued on Monday, March 16, the court called on citizens and residents to observe the sky on the evening of Wednesday, March 18—the 29th day of Ramadan—and report any confirmed sighting.
The court advised that anyone who spots the crescent, whether with the naked eye or using binoculars, should report immediately to the nearest court to formally record their testimony. Those unable to reach a court were encouraged to pass the information through the nearest designated centre for onward communication to judicial authorities.
Saudi Arabia traditionally relies on physical moon sighting to determine the end of Ramadan, as the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, with months lasting either 29 or 30 days depending on visibility.
According to the court, if the Shawwal crescent is sighted on March 18, Ramadan will end after 29 days, and Eid al-Fitr will be celebrated on Thursday, March 19, 2026. However, if the moon is not sighted, fasting will continue for a 30th day, and Eid will be observed on Friday, March 20.
The Supreme Court is expected to announce the final decision on the start of Shawwal later on the night of March 18 after reviewing reports from across the Kingdom.
