Saudi Arabia announces first day of Eid al-Fitr 2026

Saudi authorities said the Shawwal crescent moon was not sighted on March 18, 2026, meaning Ramadan will run for a full 30 days, while officials also announced four-day Eid holidays for private sector workers.

Saudi authorities confirmed on Wednesday that the crescent moon marking the start of Shawwal had not been sighted, leading to a decision that the holy month of Ramadan would complete 30 days.

A moon-sighting committee convened to verify the beginning of the new lunar month, in line with Islamic traditions that determine the calendar based on physical observation of the moon.

The report also stated that the committee confirmed the sighting of the new crescent, which would signal the end of the 30 days of fasting. However, the text indicated a contradiction regarding whether the moon was actually sighted, and further details were not immediately available.

The Islamic calendar relies on lunar observations, and announcements on moon sightings are used to determine the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Eid al-Fitr.

Eid holidays announced for workers

Earlier in the month, the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development announced that Eid holidays for employees in the private sector and non-profit organisations would begin on the evening of Wednesday, March 18, and last for four days.

The ministry said the decision was made in accordance with provisions of the country’s Labour Law.

Mohammed Al Ruzaiqi, spokesperson for the ministry, said the announcement was intended to provide clarity for both employers and employees.

The announcement aims to clarify matters for employers and employees, so that institutions can organise work schedules, ensure the continuation of essential services, and guarantee employees’ rights to the Eid holiday.

No additional details were provided regarding the apparent discrepancy in the moon-sighting report.