The final stretch of Ramadan is here, and Bahrain is shifting into Eid mode. It’s a quieter build-up than usual, and with good reason. The regional conflict is now in its third week, and while life has been steadily returning to normal, there’s still an air of caution. But after a Ramadan that has taught our community much about faith, resilience, and compassion, there’s a real appetite to mark the festival with loved ones.
The planning can now begin in earnest. His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, has issued the official circular for the Eid al-Fitr holidays.
The official date depends on the moon sighting, but astronomers have already done the maths. Dr Waheeb Al Nasser, Professor of Applied Physics and Vice President of the Bahraini Astronomical Society, expects a full 30-day Ramadan this year.
According to his calculations, the Shawwal crescent should be clearly visible on the evening of Thursday, 19 March. That puts the first day of Eid Al Fitr on Friday, 20 March.
The formal moon sighting announcement is expected on the evening of Wednesday, 18 March.
The official circular confirms that ministries and public institutions will close for Eid and the two days that follow. Under the in-lieu rule, if any of those days fall on a weekend or existing public holiday, an extra day off is added to compensate.
With the first day of Eid expected to fall on a Friday, that rule kicks in, extending the break. A proper long weekend to visit family, eat well, and recover from a month of late-night Suhoors.
This has been one of the more comfortable Ramadans in recent memory. With the month falling across February and March, fasting hours have sat at around 13 hours and 24 minutes, and the temperatures have stayed mild.
Dr Al Nasser notes this is one of the most favourable stretches in the 32-year lunar cycle. A far cry from the summer Ramadans most residents will remember.
If you’ve tried booking a henna artist or chasing up a last-minute Jalabiya or Thobe from your tailor this week, you’ll already know. Appointments are filling up, and final fittings are being squeezed in across the island.
The government is managing the practical side too, keeping food supplies steady and roadways moving as the country prepares to celebrate. Whether you’re eyeing a staycation at one of Bahrain’s resorts or simply looking forward to a quiet breakfast with family for the first time in a month, the break is well earned.
Watch for the official moon sighting confirmation on Wednesday evening. Until then, make the most of these last days of Ramadan and start locking in those Eid plans.
READ MORE: From Ajwa to Medjool: Your Guide to Dates in Bahrain (2026)
Subscribe Now