UAE announces first day of Eid Al Fitr; Shawwal Moon not spotted
The announcement of the first day of Eid Al Fitr in the UAE marks a significant moment for Muslims across the country. With the Shawwal crescent not sighted, Ramadan will extend to a full 30 days, culminating in the joyous celebration of Eid on Wednesday, April 10. This decision is in accordance with the traditional method of determining the beginning of each lunar month through the sighting of the crescent moon.
The UAE's moon-sighting committee, responsible for determining the start of Islamic months, called upon Muslims to search for the crescent on the 29th day of Ramadan. As per Islamic tradition, the sighting of the crescent moon signifies the end of one month and the beginning of the next in the Hijri lunar calendar.
With Eid falling on Wednesday, residents of the UAE are gearing up for an extended holiday period, making it one of the longest breaks of the year. The holiday commenced on Monday, April 8, and will continue for the entire week, ending on Sunday, April 14. This nine-day holiday, including the weekends before and after Eid, offers an opportunity for families and friends to come together and celebrate this auspicious occasion.
During this holiday period, several administrative changes come into effect across different Emirates. Free parking is provided in Dubai from Sunday, April 7, to Friday, April 12, allowing motorists to enjoy six days of parking without charges. In Abu Dhabi, parking is free from Monday, April 8, till Sunday, April 14, providing residents with eight days of parking exemption. Similarly, in Sharjah, free parking is available from Wednesday, April 10, till Friday, April 12, excluding areas with blue signboards.
Furthermore, toll charges in Abu Dhabi are waived from Monday, April 8, to Sunday, April 14, offering relief to motorists passing through the Darb toll gates.
Eid prayer timings have also been announced across different Emirates, ensuring that residents can participate in the special congregational prayers. In Dubai, the Eid prayer will be held at 6:20 am, while in Sharjah, it will take place at 6:17 am. In Abu Dhabi, Ajman, and Umm Al Quwain, the prayer will commence at 6:22 am, and in Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah, it will begin at 6:15 am.
Overall, the announcement of the first day of Eid Al Fitr and the subsequent holiday arrangements bring joy and anticipation to the residents of the UAE, providing them with an opportunity to celebrate this festive occasion with their loved ones and communities.
By: Sahiba Suri
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