Muslims across Egypt are preparing to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan. Astronomical calculations, conducted by the Sun Research Laboratory at the National Research Institute of Astronomy and Geophysics, have determined the expected times for the Eid prayer in cities and governorates throughout the country. This year, Eid al-Fitr is expected to begin on Friday, March 20, 2026.
Egypt’s Dar al-Ifta al-Misriyyah (Egyptian Fatwa Authority) has officially announced that Friday, March 20, 2026, corresponds to the first day of Shawwal 1447 Hijri, confirming the start of Eid al-Fitr. The authority stated that the sighting of the crescent moon confirmed the recent month.
Eid Prayer Times Across Egypt’s Governorates
Prayer times will vary slightly depending on location. Here’s a breakdown of the expected Eid prayer times in major cities and governorates, as calculated by the National Research Institute of Astronomy and Geophysics:
- Cairo: 6:24 AM
- Giza: 6:24 AM
- Alexandria: 6:29 AM
- Port Said: 6:20 AM
- Suez: 6:19 AM
- Arish: 6:14 AM
- El Tor: 6:15 AM
- Saint Catherine: 6:13 AM
- Taba: 6:10 AM
- Sharm El Sheikh: 6:12 AM
- Damanhour: 6:27 AM
- Tanta: 6:25 AM
- Mansoura: 6:24 AM
- Zagazig: 6:23 AM
- Benha: 6:24 AM
- Shibin El Kom: 6:25 AM
- Kafr El Sheikh: 6:25 AM
- Fayoum: 6:26 AM
- Beni Suef: 6:25 AM
- Minya: 6:26 AM
- Asyut: 6:24 AM
- Sohag: 6:22 AM
- Qena: 6:18 AM
- Aswan: 6:18 AM
- Abu Simbel: 6:23 AM
- Marsa Matruh: 6:40 AM
- Hurghada: 6:14 AM
- El Kharga: 6:28 AM
- Ismailia: 6:20 AM
- Damietta: 6:22 AM
- El Salloum: 6:48 AM
- Nuweiba: 6:11 AM
- Halayeb: 6:03 AM
- Shalatin: 6:07 AM
The precise timing of the Eid prayer may be confirmed locally by individual mosques and religious authorities. It’s always advisable to check with your local mosque for the most accurate schedule.
The Significance of Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr is one of the most important celebrations in the Islamic calendar. It marks the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. The holiday is a time for families to arrive together, share meals, exchange gifts, and offer charity to those in need. It’s a period of joy, gratitude, and spiritual renewal for Muslims worldwide.
Astronomical Calculations and Religious Observances
The determination of Islamic holidays, like Eid al-Fitr, often relies on a combination of astronomical calculations and the actual sighting of the crescent moon. The National Research Institute of Astronomy and Geophysics plays a crucial role in providing the astronomical data that informs these decisions. Their calculations are based on the movement of the moon and the sun, providing a scientific basis for predicting the start of the new lunar month.
Following the announcement from Dar al-Ifta al-Misriyyah, communities across Egypt will prepare for the festivities. Families will begin making traditional Eid sweets and preparing special meals to share with loved ones. Mosques will be decorated, and special Eid prayers will be held.
The next official update regarding Eid al-Fitr will likely come from local mosques confirming the precise prayer times in their respective areas. Individuals are encouraged to check with their local religious leaders for the most up-to-date information.
Have a blessed Eid al-Fitr! Share your thoughts and celebrations in the comments below.
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