Eid 2025: Anticipated Shawwal Moon Sightings for Saudi Arabia, UK, and Morocco
Eid ul-Fitr 2025 timing varies by moon sighting across regions; UK astronomers state no visibility on March 29, leading to a likely Eid on March 31. Saudi Arabia has announced Eid for March 30, creating potential discrepancies. Timings in London for moon sighting are provided for local observations.
Eid ul-Fitr 2025 is approaching as Ramadan concludes, with significant attention on the Moon sighting for the Shawwal month. Astronomical experts in the UK have predicted the timings for moon sightings, which will dictate whether Eid is celebrated on Sunday or Monday. The visibility of the crescent moon is pivotal for Muslims across the globe, as it marks the end of fasting and the commencement of Eid festivities.
The commencement of Ramadan in 2025 was characterized by a ‘split Ramadan’, where the month began either on March 1 or March 2, depending on the moon’s visibility. For instance, Saudi Arabia observed the crescent moon on February 28, initiating Ramadan on March 1. Conversely, in the UK, where moon visibility was delayed, Ramadan commenced a day later on March 2.
In the UK, many Muslims tend to synchronize their Eid celebrations with either Saudi Arabia or Morocco, which may lead to discrepancies in observed dates. Due to the differing initiation of Ramadan, moon sighting will take place on March 29 or March 30, with Eid festivities commencing the following day, April 1.
UK astronomers noted that the crescent moon would not be visible in Britain or the Middle East on Saturday night, indicating that Eid should likely fall on Monday, March 31. However, Saudi Arabia has proclaimed Sunday as the start of Eid, adhering to its national calendar. This decision may influence observance across the Islamic community, especially in the UK.
For those interested in moon sighting, sunset in London on Sunday will occur at 7:31 PM, with moonset at 9:28 PM. On Monday, sunset will be at 7:33 PM and moonset at 11:03 PM. Detailed timings for various cities are available from the HM Nautical Almanac Office.
In summary, the celebration timing for Eid ul-Fitr 2025 varies based on moon sighting conditions across different regions. With significant differences arising between the UK, Saudi Arabia, and Morocco, communities are advised to stay updated on local announcements regarding the crescent moon. The final determination of Eid date hinges on lunar observations around March 29 and 30, with potential celebrations on either March 31 or April 1.
Original Source: www.mylondon.news
