The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has convened a key meeting of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee today (Thursday) to sight the Shawwal moon and finalize the date of Eid ul Fitr 2026 in Pakistan.
The meeting is scheduled for the evening of March 19, 2026 (29 Ramadan 1447 AH) at the ministry’s office in Kohsar Block, Pak Secretariat, Constitution Avenue, Islamabad. The session will be chaired by Maulana Syed Muhammad Abdul Khabir Azad.
Zonal and district Ruet-e-Hilal committees across Pakistan will also hold parallel meetings at their respective headquarters to collect moon sighting testimonies from different regions.
Officials have urged the public to report any credible sighting of the crescent moon. The central committee will review eyewitness testimonies along with technical and scientific data before issuing the final announcement regarding Eid ul Fitr.
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According to forecasts by Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), the chances of sighting the Shawwal moon on March 19 are low. The moon is expected to be born at 06:23 PST, but its age at sunset will be around 12 hours and 41 minutes, offering limited visibility.
Meanwhile, reports from Afghanistan indicate that the Shawwal moon has been sighted in provinces including Farah, Helmand, and Ghor, with Eid ul Fitr being celebrated there today following confirmation by the Supreme Court.
In Saudi Arabia, authorities announced that the crescent moon was not sighted. After reviewing reports, the Supreme Court declared that Ramadan will complete 30 days, and Eid ul Fitr will be observed on March 20, 2026.
With varying announcements across countries, Pakistan’s decision remains crucial. The outcome of today’s Ruet-e-Hilal Committee meeting will determine whether Eid ul Fitr will be celebrated on March 20 or March 21 in the country.
Citizens across Pakistan are eagerly awaiting the official announcement, as the final decision will be based on verified testimonies and Shariah-compliant procedures.
