Ramadan may extend to 30 days, Eid likely on Monday in Saudi Arabia

Astronomers have said that the Shawwal crescent moon will be undetectable across the Arab and Islamic world today (29 March), due to the occurrence of a solar eclipse.

Saudi astronomer Bader Al Omaira explained that the crescent will set before the sun, and its conjunction will take place after sunset, making it impossible to spot, whether by the naked eye, telescopes, or any other means, reports Gulf News.

Since a sighting is necessary to mark the start of Shawwal in Saudi Arabia and other Arab and Islamic nations, it is expected that Ramadan will extend to 30 days, with Eid-ul-Fitr falling on Monday (31 March).

The International Astronomical Centre in Abu Dhabi confirmed last week that the Shawwal crescent will be impossible to observe from the eastern part of the world and across the Arab and Islamic regions, using any observational tools.

Thus, if the Shawwal crescent is not visible today, Ramadan will last for 30 days, and Eid will be celebrated on 31 March in Saudi Arabia. However, if the crescent is sighted, Eid will be celebrated tomorrow (30 March) in Saudi Arabia.

Generally, Bangladesh celebrates the two Eids a day after Saudi Arabia due to the time difference. People in some areas of Bangladesh celebrate the Eids on the same day as Saudi Arabia, while the majority celebrate as per government announcement.

If Saudi Arabia celebrates Eid-ul-Fitr – the largest religious festival of Muslims – on 31 March, Bangladesh will celebrate the festival on 1 April.

If Ramadan lasts 29 days and Eid is celebrated tomorrow in Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh will celebrate Eid on 31 March.