The International Astronomy Centre in Abu Dhabi predicts Eid Al Fitr (1444AH) to fall on April 22, Saturday, which is one day later than the previous prediction. The astronomical authority stated that its anticipation is based on astronomical information and that the other concerned authorities will confirm the exact date of Eid according to the spotting of the new moon.
On Thursday, April 20, 2023, the Islamic Community will look for the crescent of Shawwal. Still, according to the observation of the Centre, it will not be seen by the naked eye from any location in the Arab and Islamic world.
In a statement, it is said, ” Spotting the crescent on Thursday is not possible with a telescope in most of the Arab countries and Islamic world, except for the parts of West Africa starting from Libya, but the spotting remains very difficult, and it too requires a precise telescope, exceptional weather conditions and professional monitoring. As all these factors are rare, the crescent is not expected to be seen even using a telescope from anywhere in the Arab world”.
As the sight of the crescent is a prerequisite for the start of the month, Eid Al Fitr is now predicted to occur on Saturday, April 22.
The centre added that countries requiring correct sighting with the naked eye or accurate local vision with a telescope are expected to continue observing fasting to compile 30 days. Therefore Eid Al Fitr will be held on Saturday for them.
Five-day weekend
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) of UAE declared the official holiday for Eid Al Fitr from Ramadan 29 to Shawwal 3. If the Moon is not spotted on Thursday, April 20, then April 22 will be the start of Eid, and UAE residents will enjoy a five-day weekend.
The moon sighting committee of UAE will investigate the sighting and declare the exact date of Eid.
