Saudi Arabia declares Eid Al Fitr on Friday after moon sighting.
Saudi Arabia has declared that Eid Al Fitr will begin on Friday, April 21, Saudi Press Agency reports, after experts observed the new moon.
The announcement was made Thursday evening, April 20, by the Supreme Court of the kingdom, instructing citizens to begin their attempts to observe the moon on Thursday evening.
Around 5 p.m. on Thursday, experts gathered at the Sudair and Tamir astronomical observatories in the kingdom to set up telescopes and sighting equipment in search of the moon.
The UAE and Egypt have also declared Friday to be the beginning of Eid Al Fitr.
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The International Astronomy Centre of Saudi Arabia stated that countries that are satisfied with mathematical calculations of lunar cycles and do not require a specific sighting of the crescent moon may observe Eid on Friday even if it is not visible due to unfavorable weather conditions.
Those who required a visual observation of the crescent moon could wait until Saturday, according to the statement.
The sighting of the moon indicates that Eid al-Fitr festivities will commence the following day.
According to astronomer Muhammad Al Thaqafi, astronomical data indicated that Friday would be the first day of Eid Al Fitr. But others predicted that the moon would not be visible until Friday, making Saturday the first day.
The Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle, so Ramadan lasts 29–30 days.
Saudi Arabia declares Eid Al Fitr on Friday after moon sighting.
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