Mumbai, March 19: Millions of Muslims across India, Pakistan, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa and the West are turning their eyes to the horizon today, Thursday, March 19, for the Eid 2026 moon sighting. Today marks 29th of Ramadan (Ramzan), also known as Chand Raat, in these regions. Ruet-e-Hilal committees or moon sighting panels are convening to seek the Shawwal crescent moon, an observation that will determine whether Eid al-Fitr begins tomorrow, Friday, March 20, or on Saturday, March 21.

In India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, the 29th day of Ramadan falls today. Central committees, including Pakistan’s Markazi Ruet-e-Hilal Committee and India’s various regional Hilal committees, have urged citizens to report any sightings following the Maghrib (sunset) prayers. Chand Raat Mubarak 2026 Wishes, Eid Greetings, Messages and HD Wallpapers To Share.

Similar efforts are underway in Indonesia and Malaysia, where the government-led astronomical and religious observers are monitoring designated coastal and high-altitude points. Singapore, Japan, China, and the Philippines are also participating in the regional search to finalize their festive calendars.

In South Africa, the United Ulama Council (UUCSA) and local sighting groups from Cape Town to Johannesburg will convene this evening. Because South Africa relies heavily on local physical sightings, the outcome remains highly anticipated. Other countries that will sight the mooon today include Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Azerbaijan, Japan, Iran, Oman and China. Eid al-Fitr 2026 Wishes, Eid Mubarak Greetings, Messages and HD Wallpapers To Share on Chand Raat.

Split Schedule for Eid 2026 Moon Sighting in UK, US and Canada

In the United States, United Kingdom and Canada, a "split schedule" is in effect. While some communities followed the Saudi Arabian announcement (confirming Friday), many others, including the New Crescent Society in the UK and various regional North American councils, are observing the 29th day of Ramadan today. These organizations have called for local sightings this evening to determine if their congregations will celebrate on March 20 or March 21.

Will the Eid 2026 Moon Be Sighted Today?

Astronomical projections for Thursday, March 19, suggest that the crescent moon will be significantly more visible than it was yesterday. Expert data indicates that the moon will have gained enough illumination and altitude to be seen with the naked eye under clear weather conditions across most of Asia and Africa.

If the moon is sighted tonight:

  • Eid al-Fitr: Friday, March 20

  • Ramadan Length: 29 Days

If the moon is not sighted:

  • Eid al-Fitr: Saturday, March 21

  • Ramadan Length: 30 Days

The global Muslim community remains in a state of "expected celebration," awaiting the final word from their respective national religious authorities.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 19, 2026 10:54 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).