Eid ul Fitr 2026 in Pakistan – Moon Sighting on March 19, Holidays Expected

Islamabad: As the holy month of Ramadan continues across Pakistan, millions of Muslims are eagerly waiting for the arrival of Eid ul Fitr 2026. The exact date of Eid depends entirely on the sighting of the Shawwal moon.

According to official details, the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will hold its meeting on the evening of March 19, 2026, corresponding to 29th Ramadan, to observe the Shawwal crescent. The final announcement regarding Eid will be made after receiving moon sighting testimonies from across the country.

If Ramadan lasts 29 days and the moon is sighted on March 19, the first day of Shawwal will fall on March 20, 2026. In that case, Eid ul Fitr will likely be celebrated from March 20 to March 22 (Friday to Sunday).

However, if the moon is not sighted on March 19 and Ramadan completes 30 days, Shawwal will begin on March 21, and Eid will be observed from March 21 to March 23 (Saturday to Monday).

Meanwhile, the federal government has already issued the public holidays calendar for 2026. According to the schedule, Eid ul Fitr holidays have been listed for March 21, 22, and 23 (Saturday to Monday). However, the final holiday dates will depend on the official moon sighting announcement.

Officials have clarified that if the moon is sighted on March 19, public holidays may instead be observed from March 20 to March 22 (Friday to Sunday).

Religious scholars have urged citizens to wait for the official declaration by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee and avoid relying on unofficial announcements.

Eid ul Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting, prayers, and spiritual reflection. The festival is celebrated with special prayers, family gatherings, charity (Zakat al-Fitr), and festive meals.

The nation now awaits the official moon sighting decision that will determine the exact date of Eid celebrations across Pakistan.