First day of Ramadhan likely on Feb 19, Eid on March 20

Muscat: Astronomers in the Sultanate of Oman have predicted that the first day of Ramadhan this year is likely to fall on Thursday (February 19). This means Eid al Fitr will fall on Friday, March 20. “As per the report from the International Astronomical Centre, it is impossible to see the new moon on the evening of Tuesday (February 17),” Abdulwahab al Busaidy, Board Member of the Oman Space and Astronomical Society, said.

“As a result, for those countries and Oman included, who rely solely on sighting the moon, Ramadhan will begin on Thursday, February 19. For the countries who rely just on a new moon being born, like our neighbouring countries, Ramadhan for them and many countries will begin on Wednesday, February 18,” he added.

As for the Eid al Fitr, Al Busaidy said this year will be much easier for astronomers to know when it will fall. ”Eid al Fitr moon will be easily seen on Thursday, March 19 across the world. As a result, all countries including Oman and our neighbouring countries and most of the Islamic countries and possibly the entire Muslim world will be having the first day of Eid al Fitr on March 20,” he said.

For many, Ramadhan and Eid days are so special because it is the time when family and friends come together. “I celebrate Ramadhan and Eid in a unique way at home with my family. I have already made plans to make it a beautiful experience. During Ramadhan, I will be inviting my extended family every weekend and on Eid, we plan to make a big gathering at one of the farmhouses,” Abdullah Salim al Numani, bank employee, said.

For others, Ramadhan and Eid celebrations are important and deserve adequate preparations. “We are happy that this Ramadhan, there will be full of activities because of the good weather. Also, this Eid will be a special one indeed,” said Mohammed al Balushi.