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Eid Al Fitr 2026: How Dubai authorities plan to look for Shawwal crescent tonight
The sighting of the Shawwal crescent will determine whether the festival falls on Thursday or Friday
- PUBLISHED: Wed 18 Mar 2026, 1:16 PM UPDATED: Wed 18 Mar 2026, 5:34 PM
[Editor's note: Follow the Khaleej Times live blog as UAE's moon-sighting committee look for the crescent marking end of Ramadan]
Residents in the UAE are expected to know the date of Eid Al Fitr soon, as authorities prepare to sight the Shawwal crescent on Wednesday evening.
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The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai announced that the crescent moon will be observed on the evening of Ramadan 29, in coordination with the UAE Moon Sighting Committee.
The observation will take place at the Jebel Nazwa crescent sighting location as part of the country's approved system for determining the start of Hijri months.
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The sighting of the Shawwal moon will determine whether Eid Al Fitr falls on Thursday or Friday, depending on whether the crescent is visible.
The department said the moon sighting follows a system used throughout the year to ensure accurate announcements of Islamic months and occasions.
It added that the process combines actual moon observation with astronomical calculations, helping authorities confirm dates with greater accuracy and reliability.
SM Ayaz Zakir is a Senior Correspondent with a flair for extraordinary stories. His playground? Every corner of the UAE. He often ventures into remote corners of the country to capture compelling news and human interest stories.
