Ramadan next year will start on the evening of February 18, with Eid Al Fitr expected to be on March 20, according to an expert.
Astronomical researcher Ali Al Hajari announced that Bahrain is now preparing to welcome the holy month, which will last 30 days, according to both astronomical calculations and naked-eye sighting.
“Astronomical calculations indicate that the first day of the holy month of Ramadan will be on Wednesday, February 18, 2026,” said Mr Al Hajari.
“The evening of Thursday, February 19, will mark the beginning of the month according to the naked-eye sighting calendar for Bahrain’s horizon.
“At the end of the holy month, Eid Al Fitr will begin on Friday, March 20, according to astronomical calculations.
“This easy alignment in determining the start of Ramadan and Shawwal (10th month of the Islamic calendar) comes because of the clear and straightforward lunar values for Bahrain’s horizon and the region.
“This directly fulfils the conditions for determining the beginning of the two months by either astronomical calculation or naked-eye sighting.”
Mr Al Hajari further explained that Bahrain will celebrate Eid Al Fitr in conjunction with the upcoming spring equinox, which will occur on Friday, March 20, 2026, at exactly 5.46pm.
Next year’s dates are expected to be confirmed closer to the holy month by moon sightings.
Earlier this year, Ramadan in Bahrain started on the evening of Friday, February 28 and ended on Saturday, March 29. Eid Al Fitr officially started on March 30.
During Ramadan, Muslims are expected to abstain from food, drink, sex and smoking during daylight hours to cleanse their bodies and minds, bringing them closer to God.
Anyone caught eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight faces arrest and prosecution – with sentences of up to a year in jail and BD100 fines.
Earlier this year, the kingdom greeted the holy month with traditional cannon fire across the country.
They were set up in four locations across Bahrain – Arad Fort in Muharraq, Bahrain Fort in Karbabad, Abu Subh beach in Duraz and Eid prayer area in Hunainiya Valley, Riffa.
nader@gdnmedia.bh
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