Will Ramazan have 29 or 30 fasts? PMD predicts Eidul Fitr date

Will Ramazan have 29 or 30 fasts? PMD predicts Eidul Fitr date

February, 25 2026

(Web Desk): Will Ramazan have 29 or 30 fasts? Pakistan Met Office has predicted Shawwal moon unlikely on March 19, indicating 30 fasts and Eidul Fitr on March 21.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued an important prediction regarding the Shawwal moon sighting, indicating that Ramazan is likely to complete 30 fasts this year, with Eidul Fitr expected on March 21 (Saturday).

Shawwal Moon Sighting Prediction 2026

According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, there is no likelihood of the Shawwal moon being sighted on the evening of the 29th Ramazan.

The department stated that the moon will be born on March 19 at 6:23 AM, and by sunset its age is expected to be between 12 to 13 hours, which is not sufficient for visibility.

Experts clarified that a moon of 12–13 hours’ age is not suitable for naked-eye or telescope sighting, making visibility on March 19 highly unlikely.

30 Fasts Expected, Eid Likely on March 21

If the PMD’s prediction holds true, Ramazan will complete 30 days, and Eidul Fitr 2026 is expected to fall on March 21 (Saturday).

However, the final announcement regarding the Shawwal moon sighting will be made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, which holds the legal authority to declare the start of Shawwal.

Also Read: Punjab University announces Eid ul Fitr 2026 holidays

Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Meeting on March 19

Sources confirm that the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will convene a meeting on the evening of March 19 to review moon sighting reports. The session will be chaired by Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad.

Zonal Ruet-e-Hilal committees will also hold parallel meetings at district offices across the country to collect testimonies. The final decision on Eidul Fitr will be officially announced by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.

Moon Age and Visibility Criteria

Astronomical calculations suggest that the moon’s age at sunset plays a crucial role in sighting probability. With the crescent expected to be only 12–13 hours old on March 19, experts believe atmospheric conditions would not support visibility.

The PMD emphasized that while scientific forecasting indicates 30 fasts, the religious and official confirmation rests solely with the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.

With millions awaiting clarity on Ramazan 29 or 30 fasts, the final announcement will determine the nationwide observance of Eidul Fitr 2026 in Pakistan.