Saudi Supreme Court Sets March 21 for Shawwal Crescent Sighting, Announces Eid al-Fitr Date
To our brothers and sisters everywhere, as we soak in the last blessed days of Ramadan, the atmosphere carries a unique feeling—a mix of late-night prayers, reflection, and the bittersweet sense of bidding farewell to the holy month. Just before we say goodbye, the spotlight falls on the Supreme Court with its eagerly awaited announcement that has everyone looking to the skies, waiting to spot the Eid crescent.
Yesterday, the Supreme Court issued its annual call, fixing Saturday, March 21st, as the date to sight the crescent moon of Shawwal. Anyone who spots the crescent with the naked eye is urged to come forward and report it to the nearest specialized court, so their testimony can be documented and verified. This is the time-honoured tradition we grew up with—one we hold dear, even if astronomical calculations suggest otherwise. The Supreme Court is the final authority, the one that always unites the word of Muslims in the land of the Two Holy Mosques.
Of course, these days, everyone has a stargazing app on their phone, and the talk is all about the same question: Is Eid on Sunday or Monday? I'm not here to make predictions, but from what we've seen in past years, the sighting is usually possible. The most likely scenario is that Sunday, March 22nd, will complete the 30 days of Ramadan, making Monday, March 23rd, the first day of Eid. But this is just an expectation—Allah knows best. The final decision rests with those in charge, the Supreme Court, which will convene after Maghrib prayer to announce the definitive verdict.
And speaking of supreme courts, just look at the Supreme Court of India, for instance, or the Supreme Court of the United States. They are always under the global spotlight for major constitutional cases. Even the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation carries its own immense weight and influence. And here in India, we have powerful high courts like the Punjab and Haryana High Court in Chandigarh that serve millions of people. All are apex courts, no doubt. But our Supreme Court in Saudi Arabia has a very special distinction—it blends the gravity of the judiciary with a direct link to the daily lives and worship of its people. That's something we take immense pride in.
The bottom line, dear brothers and sisters, is to get your gatherings ready, wait for Saturday night, and stay tuned to the news bulletins after Maghrib. Keep these key points in mind so you're right on track:
- The big day: Saturday, March 21, 2026 – the night everyone will be looking to the sky.
- The final word: The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia. Its decision is the only one that counts.
- The expectation: Either Sunday or Monday, but personally, I believe Monday, March 23rd, is the likelier first day of Eid.
I pray to Allah that He allows us to witness Eid and accepts our good deeds and yours. Eid Mubarak to you all in advance. Stay tuned for the Supreme Court's announcement in the coming hours.