Saudi Arabia has officially announced that the Eid al-Fitr celebration will begin on Friday, bringing the holy month of Ramadan to a close.
According to a statement published by the Saudi Press Agency, the country’s Supreme Court confirmed that Thursday would mark the completion of the 30th day of Ramadan.
“The Supreme Court has decided that tomorrow, Thursday, is the completion of the 30th day of the month of Ramadan, and that Friday is the day of the Blessed Eid al-Fitr,” the statement read.
The announcement follows the traditional Islamic practice of moon sighting, which determines the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Eid celebrations based on the lunar calendar.
Eid al-Fitr is one of the most significant festivals in Islam, observed by millions of Muslims worldwide. It marks the conclusion of a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. During Ramadan, Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn to sunset, as part of one of the five pillars of Islam.
Believers are also encouraged to give charity to the less privileged, reinforcing the values of compassion and community.
Saudi Arabia, home to Islam’s holiest sites including the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, typically sees large-scale observance of both Ramadan and Eid festivities.
However, this year’s celebrations come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East. The festive period has been overshadowed by ongoing conflict in the region, following attacks involving the United States and Israel against Iran.
The situation has escalated with retaliatory strikes by Iran across parts of the Gulf, reportedly targeting key infrastructure such as airports, residential areas, energy facilities, and military bases with missiles and drones.
Despite the geopolitical tensions, Muslims around the world are expected to mark Eid al-Fitr with prayers, family gatherings, and acts of generosity.
What you should know
Eid al-Fitr is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, meaning its date can vary across countries.
Saudi Arabia’s announcement often influences other Muslim nations, though some rely on local moon sightings. The festival signifies the end of Ramadan and is celebrated with prayers, charity (Zakat al-Fitr), and communal meals.
This year’s Eid comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which may impact travel, gatherings, and the overall mood of celebrations in affected regions.
