Saudi Supreme Court sets March 21st for Shawwal moon sighting, announces Eid al-Fitr date

Hey there, to folks in Mecca, Riyadh, Jeddah, and every corner of this blessed land – there's a different feel to these final days, isn't there? That vibe of late-night prayers and reflection, that sense of bidding farewell. Just as we're about to wrap up this holy month, the Supreme Court drops its much-anticipated statement, the one that has everyone's eyes on the sky, waiting to spot the Eid moon.

Yesterday, the Supreme Court issued its annual call, setting Saturday, March 21st, as the day to sight the Shawwal crescent. If you spot the moon with the naked eye, you just need to get in touch with the nearest court to have your testimony officially recorded and documented. This is the tradition we've grown up with, passed down through generations. We wouldn't have it any other way, even if astronomical calculations suggest a different date. The Supreme Court has the final say, the authority that always unites the word of Muslims here in the land of the Two Holy Mosques.

Of course, pretty much everyone's got an astronomy app on their phone now, and everyone's asking: will Sunday be Eid, or Monday? I'm not one to make firm predictions, but from what we've seen in past years, the sighting is usually quite possible. The general feeling is that Sunday, March 22nd, will complete the 30 days of the month, making Monday, March 23rd, the first day of Eid. But that's just an expectation – God knows best. The final decision rests with the Supreme Court, which will meet after Maghrib prayer to announce the official verdict.

And it's worth noting, when you look at other high courts around the world, like the Supreme Court of India, or the Supreme Court of the United States, they're always in the global spotlight for major constitutional rulings. Even the Supreme Court of Russia holds its own significant authority. Over in India, there are also powerful benches like the Punjab and Haryana High Court Chandigarh, serving millions of people. All are supreme courts in their own right, but our Supreme Court here in Saudi Arabia has a unique and special role. It seamlessly blends the administration of justice with a direct impact on people's daily lives and their acts of worship – and that's something we take real pride in.

So, bottom line, everyone: get your gatherings ready, mark Saturday night on your calendars, and keep an eye on the news broadcasts after Maghrib prayer. Here are the key points to keep you in the loop:

• The big day: Saturday, March 21st, 2026 – the night we'll all be looking to the sky.
• The decision-maker: The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia. Their word is final.
• The likely outcome: Could be Sunday or Monday, but my personal bet is that Monday, March 23rd, will be the first day of Eid.

May God grant us and you the blessings of Eid, and may He accept our good deeds. Wishing you all the best for the holiday. Stay tuned for the Supreme Court's announcement in the coming hours.