As Ramadan draws to a close, the UAE has officially called on residents to take part in one of Islam’s most significant traditions, the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon.

The UAE Council for Fatwa has urged the public to observe the crescent moon on the evening of Wednesday, March 18, corresponding to the 29th day of Ramadan 1447 AH. The sighting will determine the beginning of Shawwal and signal the arrival of Eid Al Fitr.

In a move that highlights community participation, the Council has invited individuals to submit their moon sighting observations through its official online platform or via its dedicated contact channels. This initiative reflects the UAE’s commitment to combining tradition with modern accessibility.

The crescent sighting is more than just a religious formality; it marks the end of a sacred month of fasting and the beginning of joyous Eid celebrations, reinforcing unity and shared spiritual values across the nation.

Meanwhile, the Shawwal Moon-Sighting Committee will convene in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday evening. The meeting will be chaired by Sheikh Abdullah bin Sheikh Al Mahfouz bin Bayyah, Chairman of the Council, alongside Vice Chairman Dr Omar Habtoor Al Darei.

The committee is scheduled to gather after Maghrib prayers to carefully review reports from observation teams, certified observatories, and public submissions. All findings will be assessed in accordance with approved Sharia guidelines and scientific standards.

Following deliberations, the Council confirmed that the official announcement regarding the start of Shawwal, and consequently Eid Al Fitr, will be made through authorised UAE channels.

As anticipation builds, residents across the UAE look to the skies, continuing a timeless tradition that beautifully blends faith, science, and community spirit.

As the UAE prepares to welcome the joyous occasion of Eid Al Fitr, authorities have announced important safety measures to ensure the well-being of all citizens and residents.

The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat has confirmed that Eid prayers this year will not take place in open prayer grounds or outdoor spaces. Instead, worshippers across the country will gather in mosques to perform the special prayers.

This decision comes as part of the UAE’s ongoing commitment to public safety and organised worship, ensuring a smooth and secure experience for everyone during one of the most significant Islamic celebrations.

The move has been coordinated with key local bodies, including the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department and the Department of Islamic Affairs, reinforcing a unified approach across emirates.

Authorities have also urged worshippers to plan, arriving early at mosques and following all guidelines, to help maintain safety and avoid overcrowding.

As families and communities come together to celebrate, the UAE continues to balance tradition with responsibility, ensuring that Eid remains both joyful and safe for all.

The Embassy of Pakistan in Abu Dhabi has announced a temporary closure in observance of Eid al-Fitr and Pakistan Day.

According to the embassy, operations will be suspended from Thursday, March 19, to Monday, March 23, 2026, allowing staff and the community to observe both important occasions.

Eid dates to be confirmed

Eid Al Fitr is expected to fall on March 19 or March 20 in the UAE, depending on the official sighting of the crescent moon, which determines the start of the new month in the Islamic lunar calendar.

Plan ahead

Residents requiring consular services are advised to complete their transactions in advance to avoid inconvenience during the closure period.

The announcement ensures clarity for the Pakistani community in the UAE, helping residents plan ahead during the upcoming holiday period.