Marking the end of the month-long Ramadan, Eid Al Fitr begins when the new crescent moon is visible. The International Astronomical Center stated last week that some countries that marked the beginning of Ramadan on Monday, March 11, expect a crescent sighting on Monday, April 8. However, this sighting might be unclear due to the moon setting before the sun, leading to a conjunction occurring after sunset.
Meanwhile, countries that started Ramadan on Tuesday, March 12, expect a moon crescent sighting on Tuesday, April 9. The International Astronomical Center states that a sighting will be possible on that day. Therefore, the center expects countries to announce Eid Al Fitr on April 10.
In the UAE, the Emirates Astronomical Society also forecasts Eid to begin on April 10. However, the confirmation will be announced by the UAE’s moon-sighting committee.
Read: Ramadan 2024 working hours announced for public sector in the UAE
The new crescent moon signals the beginning of Shawwal, the 10th month on the Islamic calendar. This year, spotting of the crescent will coincide with the total solar eclipse, which will occur on April 8 in the UAE. Therefore, authorities expect the crescent to become visible on April 9, which means that Eid Al Fitr will likely begin on April 10.
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