Bahrain to Hold Moon-Sighting Session for Shawwal on March 18

The Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs announced that the Sharia Moon-Sighting Committee will convene on Wednesday evening, March 18, to receive reports and testimonies regarding the sighting of the crescent moon marking the beginning of Shawwal for the year 1447 AH.

The session will be held at the council’s headquarters in Manama on the evening of the 29th of Ramadan, corresponding to March 18, 2026. The meeting will determine the official confirmation of the start of Shawwal and the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.

In its statement, the council called on anyone who witnesses the crescent moon or has credible information regarding its sighting to promptly contact the Moon-Sighting Committee and submit their testimony.

The announcement referenced the Prophet Muhammad’s guidance: “Fast when you see it (the crescent) and break your fast when you see it; if it is obscured from you, then complete thirty days.”

The council also extended congratulations to those observing the holy month of Ramadan through fasting and prayer, encouraging continued acts of charity and compassion toward the poor, orphans, and those in need.

The statement concluded with prayers for the continued safety and prosperity of the Kingdom of Bahrain under the leadership of Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.