When is Eid al-Fitr?

Eid al-Fitr is the first of the two major Islamic holidays. It falls on the 1st of Shawwal, marking the end of Ramadan. It is a day of joy and gratitude to Allah for completing the month of fasting.

Fasting on Eid day is prohibited. The day begins with the Eid prayer performed in congregation after sunrise, followed by greetings, visits, and family gatherings.

Zakat al-Fitr: Obligatory for every Muslim, paid before the Eid prayer. Its traditional measure is one sa’ of food; the weight depends on the food. Schools differ on cash payment and how early it may be paid, so follow trusted local guidance.

Eid prayer: Two rak'ahs with additional takbirs, prayed shortly after sunrise. It is Sunnah to take one route to the prayer and return by another.

Takbir: Begins from sunset on the last day of Ramadan until the Eid prayer.

Sunnahs: Bathing, wearing one’s best clothes, applying perfume, eating before leaving for prayer, and exchanging greetings.

People track Eid because it affects Zakat al-Fitr timing, prayer planning, leave arrangements, travel, and family visits. Confirm prayer and charity arrangements with your local community.

Linking the expected Eid date to Ramadan and Shawwal calendars also helps answer a practical question: is Eid likely to arrive after 29 days or after a full 30-day Ramadan?

Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr in diverse ways that reflect local cultures. In Egypt, traditional Eid cookies are prepared. In Turkey, it is often called the Sugar Feast because sweets are shared widely.

Across the Gulf, children often receive Eidiyah gifts, while in Indonesia and Malaysia the holiday drives one of the largest annual travel waves as millions return home for family gatherings.