Saudi Arabia to celebrate Eid Friday as Sawal moon not seen

Eid rush at Paturia Ghat

Saudi Arabia on Wednesday announced that Eid-ul-Fitr, the biggest religious festivals for Muslims, will be observed on Friday, as the Shawwal crescent moon was not sighted in the country.

The moon-sighting committee convened and verified the matter, marking the end of Ramadan after 30 days of fasting, reports GulfNews

This aligns with the Islamic tradition of determining the start of a new month through lunar observation.

Earlier this month, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development announced that holidays for Eid for employees in the private and non-profit sectors will begin tonight, Wednesday, and last for four days, in accordance with the provisions of the Saudi Labour Law.

Mohammed Al Ruzaiqi, the ministry’s spokesperson, said at the time that the announcement aimed to provide clarity for employers and employees ahead of the holiday period, allowing organisations to organise work schedules and ensure operational continuity in essential sectors while safeguarding workers’ rights to the festive break. - UNB