Tunisian Astronomical Society Announces Date for the First Day of Eid al‑Fitr 2026

The Société Astronomique de Tunisie (S.A.T.) has announced that, based on astronomical calculations, the first day of Eid al‑Fitr should fall on 20 March 2026 for countries that:

• rely on visual observation of the lunar crescent, or
• use astronomical calculations but still require the illuminated lunar disc to be visible, or
• complete the full thirty days of Ramadan.

Press release (13 March 2025)

In a statement released on Friday, 13 March 2025, the S.A.T. clarified that the crescent moon signalling the start of the month of Shawwāl in the year 1447 AH will be observable on the evening of 19 March 2026 across the central and western parts of the Islamic world.

• Observation methods:

  • With optical instruments equipped with electronic sensors, or
  • With the naked eye in certain regions.

• Geographical limitation:

  • Visibility will be extremely difficult from the far‑west of the African continent due to the Moon’s position and the timing of sunset.

Expected start of Shawwāl

According to the astronomical calculations:

Official authority

The S.A.T. reminded readers that the official proclamation of the start of months in the Hijri calendar is the exclusive competence of the Mufti of the Tunisian Republic. The Mufti alone is authorized to announce the official date of Eid al‑Fitr in Tunisia.