Eid Al Fitr 2024: When will the festival fall in Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait?
As the holy month of Ramadan draws to a close, Muslims worldwide eagerly anticipate the joyous occasion of Eid Al Fitr, signaling the end of a month of fasting and spiritual reflection. Across the Middle East, including Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait, preparations are underway to celebrate this auspicious festival with fervor and devotion.
In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the moon-sighting committee has declared Wednesday, April 10, as the first day of Eid Al Fitr, after not spotting the Shawwal crescent on Monday, extending Ramadan to 30 days. This decision aligns with neighboring Saudi Arabia, where Eid festivities will also commence on the same day, offering residents a generous six-day holiday period.
In Qatar, the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs has announced Wednesday as the start of Eid Al Fitr, granting public sector employees a holiday from April 10 to April 12. Notably, Qatar has transitioned to a Friday-Saturday weekend, optimizing the holiday period for its citizens.
Similarly, the Kuwaiti Sharia authority has confirmed Eid Al Fitr to begin on Wednesday, following the conclusion of Ramadan on Tuesday. Most employees in Kuwait will enjoy a three-day break from April 9 to April 11, followed by the official weekend.
In Bahrain, the International Astronomy Centre has confirmed Wednesday as the commencement of Eid Al Fitr, with public holidays scheduled from April 10 to April 12. The weekend in Bahrain is observed on Friday and Saturday, providing ample time for families and communities to come together in celebration.
While countries in the region may differ in their moon-sighting practices, the spirit of Eid Al Fitr remains universal, symbolizing unity, generosity, and gratitude. Oman's Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs (MERA) has urged citizens to sight the Shawwal crescent on Tuesday evening, emphasizing the significance of community participation in the tradition.
Throughout Egypt, Yemen, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine, Tuesday, April 9, marks the last day of Ramadan, with Eid Al Fitr festivities commencing on Wednesday, April 10. This diversity in observing the crescent moon reflects the rich tapestry of cultural traditions and practices across the Muslim world.
As families gather to exchange greetings, share festive meals, and engage in acts of charity, the essence of Eid Al Fitr resonates with the values of compassion, solidarity, and renewal. Despite geographical boundaries, Muslims worldwide unite in commemorating this joyous occasion, reinforcing bonds of kinship and community spirit.
In conclusion, Eid Al Fitr serves as a poignant reminder of the blessings of faith and the importance of unity in diversity. As Muslims across Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and beyond come together to celebrate, may this sacred festival usher in a season of peace, prosperity, and spiritual fulfillment for all.
By: Sahiba Suri
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