Eid al-Fitr in Morocco: Anticipated Date for 2026
The excitement surrounding the date of Eid al-Fitr in Morocco for the year 2026 is building, as astronomical calculations point towards an expected celebration on Saturday, March 21. According to Ali Amraoui, a specialist in astronomy, the month of Ramadan is projected to last for a full thirty days this year, which leads to this anticipated date for Eid. He mentions that the crescent moon marking the start of the month of Shawwal will be sighted on Thursday, March 19; however, due to certain atmospheric conditions, it is likely that the visibility of the moon will be impossible within the kingdom, confirming that Eid al-Fitr will indeed be celebrated on Saturday, March 21, 2026.
While astronomical calculations provide a precise prediction for the birth of the crescent moon, Moroccan tradition necessitates the visual sighting of the moon with the naked eye. As customary, the official announcement regarding the sighting of the moon will be made by the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs once the crescent is confirmed to be seen. It is worth noting that Saudi Arabia has already declared that Thursday will complete the month of Ramadan, and Eid will be celebrated on the following Friday.
The Saudi royal court stated that the moon sighting committee held a meeting on Wednesday evening to discuss the visibility of the crescent moon for the month of Shawwal in the year 1447 AH. After reviewing available data and determining that the moon was not sighted on Wednesday evening, the committee concluded that Thursday would complete thirty days of Ramadan, and Friday would mark the first day of Eid al-Fitr for this year.
Additionally, it is important to highlight that Morocco will revert to GMT+1 on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at 2:00 AM, adding an hour in accordance with Decree No. 2.18.855 issued on October 26, 2018, related to legal time. During Ramadan, Morocco had returned to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), and there have been increasing calls from citizens on social media advocating for the retention of this timing year-round, expressing concerns that GMT+1 adversely affects their daily lives, health, and sleep patterns.
Overall, the dates for Eid al-Fitr in Morocco are anchored in a blend of scientific observation and traditional practices that highlight the cultural significance of this festive occasion.
As reported by ar.lesiteinfo.com.
