Bahrain to Host Moon-Sighting for Eid Crescent on March 18

Authorities in Bahrain have announced that the official moon-sighting session to confirm the Shawwal crescent—which marks the end of Ramadan and the start of Eid al‑Fitr—will take place on the evening of March 18, 2026.

The Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs said its Sharia Moon-Sighting Committee will convene at the council’s headquarters in Manama on the evening of the 29th day of Ramadan, which corresponds to March 18.

During the session, the committee will receive reports and testimonies from individuals who may have sighted the crescent moon. The confirmation of the moon’s sighting will determine the official beginning of Shawwal, the Islamic month that begins with the celebration of Eid Al-Fitr.

If the crescent moon is observed that evening, the following day would mark the first day of Eid. If it is not visible, the holy month of Ramadan will complete 30 days, and Eid will be observed the day after.

The council also called on residents who witness the crescent moon or have reliable information about its sighting to contact the Moon-Sighting Committee and submit their testimony to help verify the observation.

In its announcement, the council referenced a teaching of Prophet Muhammad, reminding the public of the traditional guidance:

“Fast when you see it and break your fast when you see it.”

The council also extended congratulations to Muslims observing Ramadan and encouraged continued acts of charity, compassion and support for those in need during the final days of the holy month.

Moon-sighting traditions remain central to the Islamic lunar calendar, where months begin only after the physical sighting of the crescent moon following sunset.

The committee’s announcement on March 18 will officially determine when Eid Al-Fitr celebrations begin in Bahrain.