Australia announces the first day of Eid Al Fitr for 2026

The Australian National Imams Council has announced that Friday, March 20, 2026, will mark the first day of Eid Al Fitr and the first of Shawwal 1447 AH.

In a statement shared by the council, it said the decision was made after the Australian Fatwa Council followed astronomical observatories and specialised scientific bodies tasked with sighting the crescent moon in Australia and around the world, particularly in neighbouring countries.

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According to the announcement, Thursday, March 19, 2026, will be the final day of the holy month of Ramadan.

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The council added that the criteria adopted by the Mufti General of Australia and the Australian Fatwa Council to determine the beginning and end of Ramadan, the start of Shawwal, and the day of Eid Al Fitr are based on the birth of the crescent moon according to precise astronomical calculations before sunset, the duration of its visibility after sunset, and the possibility of sighting it in Australia and surrounding regions.

It noted that these criteria are also adopted by numerous respected scientific and jurisprudential councils and Islamic bodies around the world.

Written by

Salma El Omla Digital Journalist

Salma El Omla is a digital journalist who is passionate about uncovering the human side of every story and rarely spotted without notebook in hand. She enjoys good coffee and loves exploring new hobbies.