As the end of the blessed month of Ramadan 1446 approaches, eyes in Morocco turn towards determining the date of Eid Al-Fitr, amid widespread anticipation of the number of official holiday days that employees and students will enjoy.
Astronomical Expectations and Potential Holidays:
- Astronomical calculations indicate that Eid Al-Fitr 2025 may fall on Monday, March 31, meaning that Ramadan may be only 29 days long.
- If these expectations are met, the Eid Al-Fitr holiday will begin on Saturday, March 28, and continue until Tuesday, April 1, i.e., four days.
- However, if Ramadan is 30 days long, Eid Al-Fitr will fall on Tuesday, April 1, and the holiday will extend from Saturday, March 28, to Wednesday, April 2, i.e., five days.
Sharia Vision is the Decisive Factor:
- Despite the accuracy of astronomical calculations, the Sharia vision of the crescent remains the decisive factor in determining the date of Eid in Morocco.
- The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs investigates the crescent of Shawwal on the evening of the 29th of Ramadan, when observation committees are deployed throughout the Kingdom.
- If the sighting of the crescent is confirmed, it is announced that the next day is the first day of Eid Al-Fitr.
Accuracy of Moroccan Calculations:
- Morocco is known for its accuracy in astronomical calculations for determining religious occasions, combining visual sighting with advanced astronomical calculations.
- Advanced technologies are used to predict the sighting of the crescent, taking into account factors such as the moon’s position, age, and weather conditions.
Changing the Clock After Eid:
- After the end of Ramadan, work will return to daylight saving time (+1 GMT) on Sunday, April 6, 2025, at 2:00 AM.