The joyful cry of “Chaand Raat Mubarak” is ringing out across Pakistan tonight as the nation prepares to celebrate Eid ul Fitr on Saturday, March 21, 2026, marking the end of a blessed and emotionally charged Ramadan.
The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee confirmed the Eid date after its central meeting reviewed reports from zonal and district committees across the country. Authorities confirmed the final decision after Maghrib prayers, with cloudy weather across most parts of the country preventing moon visibility.
SUPARCO and the Pakistan Meteorological Department had already predicted low chances of sighting the crescent on March 19. The moon was born at 6:23 AM PST, making it only around 12 hours old at sunset, far too young for reliable naked-eye visibility.
The Cabinet Division officially declared March 20 and 21 as public holidays for Eid al-Fitr. Combined with the regular Sunday and Pakistan Day holiday on March 23, citizens will enjoy an extended festive break.
Saudi Arabia and the UAE observed Eid on Friday, March 20, while India, Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Singapore joined Pakistan in celebrating on Saturday, March 21. Afghanistan observed Eid a day earlier based on local sightings.
RHC Chairman Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad also urged Pakistani and Muslim nations to unite amid the ongoing crisis in the Gulf, condemning the actions of Israel and calling for prayers for those suffering across the region.
As the official announcement came, Chand Raat festivities began across the country, markets filled with shoppers, mehndi artists stayed busy through the night, and the sweet aroma of Sheer Khurma drifted through homes as families prepared to welcome Eid morning together.
