Muslims around the world are gearing up to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr 2026, which is a key annual festival and marks the culmination of the holy month of Ramadan or Ramzan. Throughout Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn till dusk daily. On the day of Eid-ul-Fitr, they celebrate by offering prayers, feasting with family and friends, giving charity and expressing gratitude.
Eid-ul-Fitr marks the first day of Shawwal, which is the tenth month of the Islamic calendar. The sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon determines when Eid is celebrated. In India, Eid is usually observed a day after Saudi Arabia, which is home to Mecca, the holiest city in Islam. Eid ul-Fitr is also called Meethi Eid or the festival of breaking the fast. The festival is observed for three days, starting on the first day of Shawwal.
Eid-ul-Fitr Date In Saudi, India, UAE In 2026
In 2026, Eid-ul-Fitr is expected to be celebrated on March 20 (Friday), following the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon on March 19 (Thursday) in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries. This will mark the end of Ramadan, which began on Feb. 18 in Saudi Arabia and Feb. 19 in India in 2026.
ALSO READ: When Is Gudi Padwa 2026? Check Marathi New Year Date, Significance, Muhurat Timings And More
This means that in Saudi Arabia, UAE and other Gulf nations, Eid-ul-Fitr will be observed on March 19 or March 20, depending on the sighting of the moon. Subsequently, India and its neighbouring countries will observe Eid-ul-Fitr a day later, either on March 20 or March 21. This is mainly because the crescent moon is first sighted in the Western region (Saudi Arabia and Gulf nations) before it is visible in the East in countries such as India.
Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 Likely Celebration Dates:
- Saudi Arabia - March 20 (if crescent moon is sighted on March 19)
- Oman - March 20
- UAE: March 20
- Turkey: March 20
- India - March 21
- Pakistan - March 21
- Sri Lanka - March 21
- Bangladesh - March 21
Essential Business Intelligence, Continuous LIVE TV, Sharp Market Insights, Practical Personal Finance Advice and Latest Stories — On NDTV Profit.
