ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Tuesday predicted that the new moon of Shawwal 1447 AH is unlikely to be sighted on March 19, 2026, and Eid ul Fitr 2026 is expected to be observed on March 21.
In a statement, the Met Office said that the moon of Shawwal will be born on March 19 at 6:23 PST, adding that the crescent is expected to be visible on March 20, 3oth Ramzan 1447 AH.
At the time of sunset, the moon’s age at most meteorological observatories will be between 12 to 13 hours, which, according to the PMD, is not favourable for moon sighting.
“As per astronomical analysis, there is No Chance of sighting the new moon of Shawwal 1447 AH on the evening of 19-03-2026 (i.e on 29th Ramzan 1447 AH),” the Met Office said.
The PMD further noted that the Prediction is based on astronomical analysis. “However, the final decision regarding the declaration of a new moon rests with the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee (RHC) of Pakistan,” it said.
Eid ul Fitr 2026 expected date
Eid ul Fitr is expected to be observed from March 21 to March 23, depending on the moon sighting on March 20.
Similarly, Eid ul fitr 2026 holidays will be announced after the confirmation of the Shawwal moon sighting.
The Eid-ul-Fitr holidays will be merged with Pakistan Day holidays, as the Shawwal moon is likely to be sighted on March 20, which means Eid holidays will also be on March 23.
