The Moon Sighting Committee at the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs has announced that Friday is the first day of the blessed Eid al-Fitr.
The committee, which held its meeting on Thursday evening to sight the crescent of Shawwal month and prove the testimony of who sees it, said the moon sighting was confirmed in the Al Ghazlania area of Qatar, the official Qatar News Agency reported.
The committee extended its greetings on the occasion of the advent of Eid al-Fitr to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, His Highness the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, His Highness the Deputy Amir Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad al-Thani, as well as the honourable government, the people of Qatar and all Muslims.
"We ask Almighty Allah to return this occasion to everyone with good and blessing.”
The ministry had earlier announced that it had prepared 362 mosques and prayer grounds in various parts of the country for the Eid al-Fitr prayer, including 69 mosques and prayer grounds with places reserved for women.
The ministry said the Eid al-Fitr prayer will be performed at 4.58am, 15 minutes after sunrise.
Meanwhile, the Qatar Met department on Thursday issued a weather forecast summary for the Eid al-Fitr holidays, from Friday until Monday – June 18.
The summary said hot weather conditions would continue around the country in general during this period, with the mercury level staying above the normal average levels for this time of the year by around 3-4C. 
The maximum temperature is expected to range from 39-46C and the minimum from 29-35C in different areas. 
The prevailing winds inshore are expected to be northwesterly, with speeds ranging from 8-18 knots. The wind speed will increase on Sunday and Monday, ranging from 12-22 knots and reaching a high of 27 knots in some places during the afternoon. This may result in blowing dust and a drop in visibility to 3km or less at times, the forecast states.
The weather office has also warned that marine conditions will not be suitable for any activities during this period with northwesterly winds blowing at speeds of 15-25 knots and sea level rising to 5-8ft. 
The Met department has advised people to avoid direct sunlight during noon and follow latest updates through its official website and various social media accounts.
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