Muslims are set to mark the first day of Eid al-Fitr today (Image: GETTY)
What is the moon sighting and why is it significant?
Eid al-Fitr is a three-day festival which begins at the end of Ramadan, a holy month in which Muslims fast during daylight hours. The end of Ramadan is marked on the 29th day if a new moon is sighted, and if not it extends to a 30th day.
Thus with a new moon being sighted in London, for these Muslims, the first day of Eid is today.
As reported by Al Jazeera, Eid-al-Fitr translates as “breaking of the fast” and is traditionally a three-day festival.
Who declares if a new moon has arrived?
To declare the start of Eid, the testimony of local moonlighters is used.
READ MORE: Eid al-Fitr 2019 messages: Eid Mubarak wishes and WhatsApp messages
Muslims usually visit the mosque to pray to mark Eid (Image: GETTY)
A Judicial High Court then verifies and declares if Eid has arrived.
How do Muslims celebrate Eid?
Muslims take part in prayer services and attend a sermon after dawn.
They usually spend the day visiting friends and relatives.
