Eid Al Fitr 2023: Morocco Awaits Crescent Moon Sighting on Thursday

The Moroccan Ministry of Islamic Affairs has officially announced that the eagerly awaited sighting of the crescent moon, signifying the end of Ramadan in Morocco and the beginning of the Eid Al Fitr 2023 festivities, is scheduled for Thursday, April 20. The sighting is crucial to religious committees as it determines the commencement of Shawwal, the tenth month in the Islamic calendar, which follows the conclusion of Ramadan and signifies the start of Eid Al Fitr celebrations.

In a public statement, the Islamic Ministry requested the assistance of religious experts and urged them to provide their insights and feedback on the crescent moon sighting. To facilitate the communication, they have shared the following contact numbers:

• 0537-76-11-45
• 0537-76-09-32
• 0537-76-05-49
• 0537-76-89-54

Renowned Moroccan astronomers have put forth their predictions, with the majority indicating that the North African nation will likely observe this year’s Eid Al Fitr on April 22. If the crescent moon is indeed sighted on Thursday, Moroccans will complete a full 30 days of fasting for the first time in five years.

Moroccan astronomer Hicham Aissaoui had anticipated this outcome several days before the beginning of Ramadan, asserting that while Saudi Arabia and most other countries could celebrate Eid Al Fitr on April 21, Morocco would most likely observe the festivities a day later.

Muslims around the world traditionally commence their Eid celebrations with Salat Al Eid, a special morning prayer. This prayer is held in congregation at mosques and is followed by families coming together to share a special breakfast, featuring a variety of delicious local dishes. The remainder of the day is spent with family and loved ones, exchanging visits and enjoying each other’s company. Children often don new, fancy clothing to mark the special occasion.

As Muslims anticipate the crescent moon sighting and the resulting festivities, we eagerly look forward to the joy and celebration that Eid Al Fitr brings to Muslim communities around the world.