KARACHI: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a preliminary forecast indicating that the crescent moon of Shawwal 1447 AH is unlikely to be visible on March 19, 2026.
Eid-ul-Fitr is therefore expected to be observed on Saturday, March 21, 2026, subject to formal confirmation.
The advisory explains that on March 19 corresponding to the 29th of Ramadan the new moon will be born at 6:23 a.m.
However, by sunset the moon’s age is projected to be approximately 12 to 13 hours, a duration considered insufficient for visibility under normal observational conditions.
In this regard, Meteorological experts noted that such a short lunar age typically does not favor naked-eye sighting, especially given the angle and position of the moon relative to the horizon at dusk.
In this sense, officials focused on that the final and authoritative announcement regarding the commencement of Shawwal rests with the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.
The committee traditionally gathers testimonies from across the country before declaring the official start of Eid.
The forecast has created widespread public interest, as families and businesses alike begin planning for one of the most significant religious festivals in the Islamic calendar.
