As South Africans prepare for the potential end of Ramadan 1446 AH, the question on everyone’s mind is whether the Shawwal crescent moon will be sighted this evening, Sunday, 30 March 2025. According to Mufti Abdullah Dockrat, Principal of Darul Uloom Erasmia, the chances are slim—but not impossible.
In a recent discussion on Salaamedia, Mufti Dockrat explained that while the moon is technically old enough—approximately 29 hours—to be visible, the astronomical conditions are not favourable across most of the country.
“Although the moon is 29 hours old … it would be very difficult to actually see the moon,” he noted. “In the northern parts; like Pretoria, [and] Polokwane; there could be a possibility of seeing the moon there, but generally speaking in South Africa it would be quite difficult to see the moon.”
The situation is even more challenging for regions traditionally relied upon for final confirmation.
“Although Cape Town is the last province that is consulted because their sunset is latest and their moonset is the latest, the possibility of seeing it in Cape Town is far slimmer in comparison to Pretoria, Polokwane and these areas,” Dockrat added.
The moon’s “elongation”—its angular distance from the sun—adds to the difficulty. Mufti Dockrat emphasized that visibility improves further north, suggesting that neighbouring countries like Zimbabwe may have better chances of confirming the sighting.
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Crescent sighting
This year’s moon sighting may again stir debate, particularly regarding whether to rely on local crescent sightings or accept reports from neighbouring regions.
“We might have an issue this Eid again. This is not to create any mischief or corruption, but this movement has been going on for some time to take from the neighbouring countries,” Dockrat cautioned.
For those seeking clarity, he recommends checking Hilal Watch for monthly visibility maps and updates.
The sighting of the crescent moon marks the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Eid al-Fitr, a celebration of spiritual renewal, gratitude, and unity. It is a deeply symbolic act that connects Muslims across time and geography.
Today, Sunday 30 March 2025, countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Turkey are celebrating Eid, having sighted the moon last night. Meanwhile, South Africa and others await tonight’s sighting to determine if Eid will be tomorrow.
With the United Ulama Council of South Africa (UUCSA) urging the public to attempt sightings this evening and promising an official decision based solely on reliable local reports, the nation waits in anticipation.
Stay tuned for updates from UUCSA and local Ulama bodies as they assess tonight’s reports.
