Eid ul-Fitr 2025 will commence based on the sighting of the Shawwal moon. Varying Ramadan start dates may cause differences in celebrations, with Saudi Arabia declaring Eid on March 30, while UK astronomers predict March 31. Observers can check specific moon visibility timings provided by the HM Nautical Almanac Office.
As Ramadan 2025 approaches its conclusion, Eid ul-Fitr is expected to commence with the sighting of Shawwal’s new moon. Astronomy experts in the UK have outlined the precise timings for moon sightings, which are critical for determining if Eid will be celebrated on Sunday or Monday.
Globally, Muslims will be keenly observing the first crescent of the new moon. In 2025, the start of Ramadan experienced variations, initiating either on March 1 or March 2, depending on local moon sightings. For instance, in Saudi Arabia, Ramadan commenced on March 1, while in the UK, it started a day later, on March 2.
This disparity in Ramadan start dates leads to potential differences in Eid celebrations. In the UK, some Muslims may align with celebrations in Saudi Arabia or Morocco, further complicating the determination of the Eid date. As the moon must be sighted on the 29th day of the Islamic month, the anticipation builds for sights on March 29 or March 30, with Eid expected the following day.
Despite forecasts from UK astronomers indicating that the moon will not be visible in Britain or the Middle East on the evening of March 29, Saudi Arabia has already claimed March 30 as Eid’s commencement based on its national calendar. The UK’s HM Nautical Almanac Office has issued a schedule detailing moon visibility times.
Those wishing to observe the crescent moon on Sunday should note that in London, sunset will occur at 7:31 PM, followed by moonset at 9:28 PM. On Monday, sunset is at 7:33 PM and moonset at 11:03 PM. A complete list of moon visibility times for various cities is available from the HM Nautical Almanac Office.
In conclusion, the determination of Eid ul-Fitr in 2025 will largely depend on the sighting of the Shawwal moon. The differing start of Ramadan in regions like Saudi Arabia and the UK may lead to varying Eid celebrations. With predicted moon visibility timings and the established dates by Saudi Arabia, observers are advised to stay informed to properly celebrate Eid, whether on March 30 or March 31.
Original Source: www.mylondon.news
