Eid 2025 Moon Sighting Timings: Determining Eid ul-Fitr Dates for Saudi Arabia, UK, and Morocco

Eid ul-Fitr for 2025 is anticipated based on moon sightings that may occur on March 29 or 30. Saudi Arabia has predetermined Eid to begin on Sunday, while UK astronomers suggest it will be on Monday. Observations will vary by location, with specific times for moon sightings provided to assist in determining the start of celebrations.

Eid ul-Fitr is approaching as Ramadan 2025 nears its conclusion, with the start of Shawwal expected soon. The precise timing of moon sightings, which will dictate the commencement of Eid, has been clarified by UK astronomy experts. Muslims worldwide will vigilantly observe the crescent moon to determine whether Eid will be celebrated on Sunday or Monday.

This year presented a “split Ramadan,” initiating either on March 1 or March 2, depending on local moon sightings. For instance, in Saudi Arabia, Ramadan commenced on March 1 after the moon was sighted on February 28. Conversely, the UK began Ramadan a day later on March 2 due to visibility issues.

In the UK, many individuals will synchronize their Eid celebrations with those in Saudi Arabia or Morocco, resulting in differing Eid dates domestically. The moon must be sighted on the 29th day of the Islamic month, leading to a moon sighting occurring on either March 29 or 30, thus affecting Eid’s start date.

UK astronomers predict that the moon will be invisible on Saturday night, indicating Eid would likely be on Monday, March 31. However, Saudi Arabia has pre-emptively established Sunday as the start of Eid, likely following its national lunar calendar.

For moon gazing, the UK’s HM Nautical Almanac Office has released visibility dates and times. Only select regions in the eastern United States and Canada may see the moon without equipment; elsewhere, believers will await confirmation until Sunday.

In London’s context, sunset timings are crucial, with sunset at 7:31 PM and moonset at 9:28 PM on Sunday, and for Monday, sunset at 7:33 PM and moonset at 11:03 PM. Detailed schedules for various locations can be found as provided by the HM Nautical Almanac Office.

In summary, the observance of Eid ul-Fitr in 2025 is contingent on moon sighting results, which will influence whether celebrations commence on March 30 or 31. The differing start of Ramadan in various regions illustrates the diverse practices among Muslims in aligning Eid festivities. The essential timings for moon sightings have been detailed, enabling communities to prepare for the upcoming celebration accordingly.

Original Source: www.mylondon.news