Eid-Al-Fitr: Turkey, Singapore announce dates as Shawwal crescent searching begins

Authorities in Turkey and Singapore have announced different dates for the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, as both countries rely on astronomical calculations rather than traditional moon sighting to determine the start of Islamic months.

Turkey has fixed Friday, March 20, for Eid al-Fitr, based on projections indicating the possibility of sighting the Shawwal crescent on Thursday from Turkey and other regions.

Singapore, however, has declared Saturday, March 21, as Eid al-Fitr, following astronomical data showing that the crescent will not be visible from the country on Thursday.

Officials in both countries noted that Wednesday marks the 28th day of Ramadan, with Eid dates determined through pre-calculated lunar visibility models.

In Nigeria, Tribune Online reports that the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has called on Muslims to begin the search for the crescent moon that will signal the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Shawwal.

The call was contained in a statement issued to journalists on Tuesday by the Sultanate Council Sokoto and signed by its Wazirin Sokoto and Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sambo Wali Junaidu.

“Wednesday, March 18, 2026, corresponding to the 29th day of Ramadan 1447AH, has been designated for the sighting of the new moon of Shawwal.

“The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs urges Muslims across the country to look out for the new moon of Shawwal on Wednesday,” the statement said.

The statement added that any Muslim who sights the crescent should report it to the nearest District or Village Head, who will relay the information to the Sultan for official confirmation.

(Gulf News)