Saudi Arabia announces Shawwal crescent sighting date

The Saudi Supreme Court has called on its citizens to observe the Shawwal moon on the evening of Saturday, March 29, 2025 (corresponding to Ramadan 29, 1446 AH), to determine the date of Eid al-Fitr.

In an official statement, the court urged anyone who spots the crescent moon—either with the naked eye or using telescopes—to report their sighting to the nearest court and document their testimony.

Observers may also contact the nearest observation center for assistance in reaching the relevant authorities. Additionally, the court encouraged experts and experienced moon sighters to participate in the official observation committees across different regions of the kingdom.

Weather and climate researcher Abdulaziz Al-Hussaini noted that astronomical calculations suggest that sighting the moon may be challenging due to its small size and dim illumination.

However, he pointed out that similar past experiences indicate that observers may still be able to spot it, making Sunday, March 30, 2025, the likely first day of Eid al-Fitr. The final announcement, however, remains under the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court.