Ramadan is coming to an end. Saudi Arabia announced on Thursday (April 20th) that Eid al-Fitr, the Muslim holiday that marks the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan, will take place Friday in the kingdom.
The birthplace of Islam and the great hajj pilgrimage, the wealthy Gulf monarchy is home to the religion's holiest sites, starting with Mecca, and thus retains a special influence throughout the Muslim world.
"Tomorrow, Friday, will be the first day of Eid al-Fitr," with Thursday being the last fasting day of Ramadan, the royal cabinet was quoted as saying by the official SPA news agency.
The date of Eid al-Fitr is determined by the observation of the crescent moon, in accordance with the Muslim lunar calendar, which differs from the Gregorian calendar.
Celebration Saturday for others
Elsewhere in the region, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Libya, Jordan, Sudan, Egypt, Algeria will begin their celebrations on Friday.
Oman, Iran and Iraq will celebrate Eid on Saturday.
In Lebanon and Libya, countries torn apart by deep divisions, some will have the celebrations on Friday and others on Saturday.
The fast of Ramadan, one of the five pillars of Islam, is observed by millions of Muslims around the world. During this month, from sunrise to sunset, they are forbidden to drink, eat and have sex.
Beyond the religious dimension, Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr are also an opportunity for large gatherings with family or with the rest of the Muslim community.
Eid al-Fitr is also marked by gestures of charity towards the poorest, strongly encouraged by the religious at this time of year.
With AFP
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