Pakistan is likely to celebrate Eidul Fitr on March 21 (Saturday), as the Shawwal crescent is expected to be visible on the evening of March 20, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department.

In its latest assessment issued from Karachi, the Met Office said there is no possibility of sighting the moon on March 19 (Thursday), citing insufficient moon age.

Officials said the new moon was born at 6:23 a.m. on March 19. However, by sunset the moon’s age will be only 12 to 13 hours — well below the 18 to 20 hours generally required for visibility to the naked eye.

Due to this short duration, experts believe the crescent will not be visible on Thursday evening. The Shawwal moon is instead expected to be clearly sighted on Friday evening, paving the way for Eid celebrations the following day.

Despite the forecast, authorities emphasised that the final announcement will be made after the meeting of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, which is responsible for officially confirming moon sightings in the country.

The Met Office has reiterated that its projection is based on scientific calculations, while the formal decision will follow religious and observational verification.

Ramazan in Pakistan began on February 19 this year, after the crescent was sighted on the 29th of Sha’aban.