Bahrain Indicates Likely Eid-ul-Fitr Date

Authorities in Bahrain have projected that the Eid-ul-Fitr celebration this year may fall on Friday, 20 March, following astronomical calculations and the Islamic tradition of moon sighting. The announcement provides guidance for residents across the Gulf nation and those observing Ramadan in neighbouring regions.

Moon Sighting Determines Islamic Months

In Islamic practice, the start of a new month is confirmed through the observation of the new crescent moon. Accordingly, the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Shawwal—marked by Eid-ul-Fitr—depend on whether the crescent is visible at the conclusion of the 29th day of fasting.

This year, Ramadan is expected to complete 30 days, a conclusion supported by both astronomical prediction and previous observations.

Scientific Basis for Prediction

Speaking to News of Bahrain on Sunday, Dr Wahib Al Nasser, Vice President of the Bahrain Astronomical Society and Professor of Applied Physics, elaborated on the calculations. He explained that on Wednesday, 18 March, committees across the Gulf region will convene at sunset to attempt sighting the crescent of Shawwal.

Dr Al Nasser added that, based on astronomical calculations, the new moon’s conjunction (birth) is expected at 04:05 am (Makkah time) on Thursday, 19 March. As a result, the crescent will not be visible in the sky on the evening of 18 March, making it highly probable that Ramadan will extend to a full 30 days.

He further noted that following Thursday’s sunset, the new moon should become clearly visible in Bahrain. Observers can expect the crescent to appear approximately 6 degrees above the western horizon, remaining visible for about 30 minutes, providing optimal conditions for scientific confirmation.

Dr Al Nasser also mentioned that lunar observations made earlier in Ramadan, particularly during the full moon phase, indicated that the month was likely to extend to a full 30 days, reinforcing the current projection.

Expected Dates Overview

Significance for Observers

Residents and Muslim communities in Bahrain and neighbouring countries often rely on such scientific and observational guidance to determine the exact day of Eid-ul-Fitr. The combination of astronomical calculation and local moon sighting committees ensures accuracy in aligning religious observances with the lunar calendar.

As preparations begin for the end of Ramadan, authorities emphasise that official confirmation will follow after local sighting, adhering to Islamic tradition while incorporating modern astronomical methods.