ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s national space agency, SUPARCO, has projected that Eid-ul-Fitr is likely to be observed on Saturday, March 21, 2026, based on its latest astronomical assessment of the Shawwal moon.
According to officials, the new moon for Shawwal 1447 AH is expected to form on March 19, 2026, at 6:23am. However, scientific estimates suggest that visibility of the crescent on the same evening will remain highly unlikely in most parts of the country.
SUPARCO said that by sunset on March 19, the moon would be approximately 12 hours and 41 minutes old, a factor considered important in determining whether the crescent can be seen with the naked eye. In coastal regions, the interval between sunset and moonset is expected to be around 28 minutes, but experts believe those conditions may still not be sufficient for reliable sighting.
On the basis of these calculations, the space agency has indicated that the first day of Shawwal is expected to fall on March 21.
Despite the scientific forecast, SUPARCO noted that the official announcement on Eid-ul-Fitr will be made by Pakistan’s Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, which is responsible for confirming moon sighting in accordance with established religious and official procedures.
The prediction is likely to shape early public expectations as families across the country begin preparations for the end of Ramazan, though the final word will depend on testimonies received by the moon sighting body.
