Saudi Arabia, UAE to celebrate Eid al-Fitr tomorrow after crescent sighting

Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will celebrate Eid al-Fitr on Sunday, March 30, authorities confirmed after the Shawwal crescent was sighted earlier this evening, Khaleej Times reported.

Eid al-Fitr, which falls on Shawwal 1, marks the end of Ramadan. Islamic months last either 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting. Since the crescent was spotted on Saturday evening, Ramadan will conclude in 29 days this year.

Earlier, officials in both countries had urged Muslims to look for the crescent moon on Saturday, the 29th of Ramadan.

Earlier this week, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Islamic Affairs, Sheikh Abdullatif Al-Sheikh, instructed all ministry branches to hold Eid al-Fitr prayers 15 minutes after sunrise.

The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) in Dubai has confirmed that Eid prayers will be held at 6:30 a.m. across all mosques in the emirate.

“The Eid al-Fitr prayer will begin at 6:30 a.m. in over 680 mosques and prayer areas across Dubai,” IACAD said in an official statement.

Dubai's public parking will be free from Shawwal 1 to 3, except for multi-level parking terminals. Paid parking fees will resume on Shawwal 4, according to the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

In Sharjah, free parking will also be available during the Eid holiday from Shawwal 1 to 3, except for seven-day paid parking zones, which remain operational.

Ajman authorities have also announced free public parking from Shawwal 1 to 3.