Sharjah, UAE – The Sharjah Astronomical Observatory announced that March 20 will be the first day of Eid al-Fitr in the United Arab Emirates, according to astronomical calculations related to the sighting of the crescent moon of Shawwal for the year 1447 AH.
The observatory explained that astronomical studies indicate that Thursday, March 19, will be the 30th and final day of Ramadan, as the crescent moon of Shawwal was not visible in the UAE skies the previous evening. This was due to astronomical conditions related to the time of conjunction and the moon’s position relative to the horizon.
Experts indicated that the astronomical conjunction of the moon will occur shortly before sunset, making it extremely difficult to see the crescent moon with the naked eye in the region. Therefore, it is likely that Ramadan will complete thirty days.
The observatory confirmed that determining the beginning of the lunar months astronomically helps in predicting religious occasions. However, the official announcement of the start of Shawwal and the date of Eid al-Fitr remains the prerogative of the relevant religious authorities in the country after the crescent moon has been sighted.
Muslims in the UAE and the Islamic world are awaiting the announcement from the relevant religious authorities regarding the sighting of the Shawwal crescent in the coming days, signaling the end of Ramadan and the arrival of Eid al-Fitr amidst an atmosphere of joy and celebration.
