The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has predicted the sighting of the Shawwal moon in Pakistan, indicating that Eid-ul-Fitr is expected to fall on March 31, 2025.

According to SUPARCO’s official statement, the new moon of Shawwal 1446 Hijri will be born on March 29, 2025, at 3:58 PM (PST). When the sun sets on March 30, the moon will be approximately 27 hours old, 14 degrees above the horizon, and illuminated by 2%, making it easily visible to the unaided eye.

The space agency's analysis suggests that the probability of moon sighting in Pakistan on March 30 is extremely high, which means the month of Ramadan will consist of 29 days, and Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on March 31, 2025.

However, the final decision regarding the moon sighting will be made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, which will assess eyewitness testimonies and prevailing weather conditions before announcing the official date.

Eid-ul-Fitr in Saudi Arabia

On the other hand, Saudi Arabia is unlikely to sight the moon on March 29, as the age of the moon at sunset in Makkah will be only five hours, making it impossible to be seen. Consequently, the moon is expected to be sighted in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East on March 30, leading to Eid-ul-Fitr being observed on March 31, 2025, just like in Pakistan.

SUPARCO has stated that while scientific data strongly supports the visibility of the moon on March 30, the official declaration rests with the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, which will consider witness statements and atmospheric conditions before making the final call.