As Ramadan approaches its conclusion, the Islamic community in Spain prepares for the significant event of Eid Al-Fitr, which is set to take place on March 20, 2026. This date was confirmed by the Islamic Commission of Spain (CIE), marking a crucial moment for the approximately 2.4 million Muslims residing in the country. The end of Ramadan is not only a time for celebration but also a period for fulfilling the obligation of Zakat Al-Fitr, a ritual aimed at supporting the poor and needy.

Zakat Al-Fitr is traditionally given in the form of staple food items such as rice, wheat, or dates. The CIE has established a minimum amount for this charitable contribution at €5 per person, ensuring that even those with limited means can participate in this essential act of charity. This practice underscores the spiritual and social dimensions of Islam, as it embodies the message of spreading mercy and compassion within the community.

According to Islamic teachings, Zakat Al-Fitr must be distributed to eligible recipients before the Eid prayer, allowing those in need to partake in the festivities of Eid. The requirement to give this charity emphasizes the importance of community support and the collective responsibility of Muslims to care for one another, particularly during significant religious occasions.

In Spain, the recognition of Eid Al-Fitr as an official public holiday in the enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla highlights the cultural integration of Islamic traditions within the broader Spanish society. The celebration of Eid Al-Fitr, also known as Meethi Eid, typically involves three days of festivities characterized by the exchange of sweets and communal gatherings, further strengthening the bonds within the Muslim community.

The historical context of Islam in Spain dates back over thirteen centuries, with a rich legacy that includes the influence of the Moriscos, descendants of Muslims who converted to Christianity. This historical backdrop adds depth to the contemporary practice of Zakat Al-Fitr, as it connects current generations with their ancestral traditions and values.

As the date for Eid Al-Fitr approaches, the Muslim community in Spain is actively engaged in preparations, ensuring that Zakat Al-Fitr is collected and distributed appropriately. The emphasis on charity during this time serves as a reminder of the core values of Islam and the importance of supporting those who are less fortunate.

Overall, the practice of Zakat Al-Fitr in Spain is not just a ritual obligation; it is a vital part of the social fabric that binds the community together. The upcoming Eid Al-Fitr celebration will be a testament to the enduring spirit of charity and solidarity among Muslims in Spain, reflecting the broader principles of compassion and generosity that are central to the Islamic faith.

The post Zakat al fitr: Zakat Al-Fitr: A Key Islamic Obligation in Spain appeared first on cottenhamnews.

The closure of al-Aqsa mosque is part of a wider Israeli strategy to tighten control over the site, which holds profound significance for Muslims worldwide. The mosque’s closure has not only disrupted traditional practices but also cast a shadow over the celebrations of Eid al-Fitr, which signifies the end of Ramadan—a month dedicated to fasting and spiritual reflection.

In Saudi Arabia, where Eid celebrations are typically marked by communal prayers, the government has announced specific prayer timings across major cities. In Makkah, the Eid prayer is scheduled for 6:39 am, while in Madinah, it will take place at 6:40 am, and in Riyadh at 6:12 am. These timings are crucial for the millions of Muslims who gather for prayers during this festive period.

In the UK, local mosques are preparing for their own Eid celebrations. The Maidenhead Mosque will hold an Eid prayer and sermon to mark the occasion, while Jamia Ghousia Masjid in Slough is set to conduct four prayer sittings, with the first starting at 8 am and the fourth at 10:45 am. Additionally, Dedworth Manor Park in Windsor will host the annual Eid in the Park celebration, beginning with prayers at 9 am.

What observers say

As the day approaches, community leaders emphasize the importance of unity and gratitude during Eid. “Eid is a time of gratitude, generosity and togetherness,” stated Zia Mahiudin, highlighting the spirit of the occasion despite the challenges faced this year. Irfan Rafiq echoed similar sentiments, noting that “Eid is a special time of celebration, gratitude and community for Muslims.”

However, the joy of Eid is incomplete for many. “The joy of Eid is incomplete,” lamented Sadeeqa Omar, reflecting the sentiments of those unable to access the mosque. This year’s observance is a stark reminder of the ongoing tensions surrounding the site and the broader implications for the Muslim community.

As the situation develops, many are left wondering how these restrictions will affect future Eid celebrations and the communal aspects that are so vital to the observance. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential changes to the security measures in place, leaving worshippers in a state of uncertainty as they navigate this challenging landscape.

The post Eid Namaz Observances Marked by Unprecedented Restrictions appeared first on cottenhamnews.

Eid al-Fitr is anticipated to be celebrated on March 20 or 21, 2026, contingent upon moon sighting confirmation. Traditionally, Eid prayers occur in the early morning on the first day of Eid, drawing large crowds for communal worship.

However, the outdoor Eid prayer event at Platt Fields Park in Fallowfield, Manchester, has been cancelled due to safety and operational requirements. Organisers announced this decision after assessing concerns related to parking and weather conditions, which could impact the safety of attendees.

Historically, the Platt Fields Park event attracts more than 20,000 attendees, making it a significant gathering for the community. In light of this cancellation, worshippers are encouraged to attend local mosques instead, where many will arrange multiple prayer sessions to accommodate the community.

Rabnawaz Akbar, a spokesperson for the event, noted, “This year the grass is quite soft. There wasn’t really enough hard standing space for cars.” This highlights the logistical challenges faced in hosting large outdoor events.

1Eid, which has been running for 18 years, aims to foster joy and unity during Eid celebrations. The cancellation marks a notable shift as the event was set to return to Manchester for the tenth time in 2026.

In East London, the East London Mosque plans to hold multiple morning prayer sessions between 8am and 11am, ensuring that worshippers have options for participation. Most major city mosques are expected to conduct their main Eid prayers between 9am and 10am.

Families are advised to inform schools about taking children out for prayers and events, ensuring that the significance of Eid is recognized in educational settings.

As Ramadan approaches, it is likely to begin on February 19, 2026, lasting 29 or 30 days. This period is crucial for the Muslim community, culminating in the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding any further developments for the Eid prayer events. The community’s response to the cancellation will be closely monitored as local mosques prepare for the influx of worshippers.

Organisers stated, “We encourage everyone to attend their local mosques or neighbourhood prayer arrangements, many of which will organise multiple sessions on Eid morning to welcome worshippers safely and comfortably.” This sentiment underscores the importance of community solidarity during these celebrations.

The post Eid Prayer Cancellation at Platt Fields Park Due to Safety Concerns appeared first on cottenhamnews.

“Eid Mubarak! May your heart be filled with joy and your home with happiness,” is a sentiment echoed by many as Eid-ul-Fitr approaches on March 20 or 21, 2026, depending on moon sighting.

Eid Mubarak, an Arabic phrase meaning ‘blessed feast or festival’, marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting and reflection for Muslims worldwide. This festival is celebrated with prayers, feasts, and the exchange of gifts, reinforcing community bonds.

As part of the cultural tradition, Eid Mubarak wishes are shared among family and friends, with 100 curated messages highlighting themes of peace, prosperity, and joy. One popular wish states, “Eid Mubarak! Let this special occasion of Eid adorn your life with the colors of heaven.”

The significance of Eid-ul-Fitr extends beyond personal celebration; it emphasizes gratitude, unity, and charity. Zakat al-Fitr, a form of charity given during Eid, aims to uplift the needy, ensuring that everyone can partake in the festivities.

In Saudi Arabia and the UAE, Eid celebrations are expected to commence on March 20, while in India, the festivities may begin a day later on March 21. This variance highlights the importance of moon sighting in determining the exact date of Eid.

Another heartfelt wish shared during this time is, “Eid Mubarak! May all your prayers be answered and your sacrifices accepted.” Such messages resonate deeply within communities, fostering a spirit of togetherness.

As families prepare for the celebrations, the atmosphere is filled with anticipation. The festival is not only a time for joy but also a moment to reflect on the values of compassion and generosity.

With the approach of Eid-ul-Fitr, many are reminded of the importance of sharing and caring, as expressed in the wish, “Eid Mubarak! May this beautiful festival bring peace and happiness to everyone around you.”

As the date draws near, communities worldwide are gearing up for the celebrations, ensuring that the essence of Eid is felt by all. Details remain unconfirmed regarding specific local events, but the spirit of Eid is expected to shine brightly across the globe.

The post Eid Mubarak Wishes: Celebrating the Festival of Breaking the Fast appeared first on cottenhamnews.

Eid al-Fitr is expected to be celebrated on March 20, 2026, in the United Kingdom, marking the end of Ramadan, a month dedicated to fasting and prayer. This announcement follows the recent news that the crescent moon for Shawwal was not sighted on March 18, 2026.

If the crescent moon is not observed on March 19, Ramadan will complete its full 30 days, leading to Eid celebrations the following day. Eid prayers are typically held shortly after sunrise, with specific times varying by location. In London, the Eid prayer is scheduled between 6:45 AM and 7:00 AM, while in Birmingham, it is set for 6:50 AM to 7:00 AM. Manchester and Leeds will hold prayers from 6:55 AM to 7:05 AM, and Glasgow’s prayers are planned for 7:00 AM to 7:10 AM.

Approximately 3.9 million Muslims reside in the UK, and the observance of Eid al-Fitr is a significant event for many communities. In 2025, Eid al-Fitr was celebrated on March 30 in the UK, illustrating the variability of the Islamic calendar, which is based on lunar cycles.

The Islamic calendar’s reliance on moon sightings means that the exact date of Eid al-Fitr can differ across various communities. As such, details remain unconfirmed until the crescent moon is sighted. The importance of Zakat al-Fitr, a charitable donation given before Eid prayers, further emphasizes the communal aspects of the celebration.

As the date approaches, many are eagerly awaiting confirmation of the moon sighting, which will finalize the celebration plans. The anticipation is palpable, with many reflecting on the significance of Eid al-Fitr as a time for family, community, and gratitude.

“Eid Al Fitr is on Friday, 20 March 2026,” stated a representative from the local Islamic authority. This announcement has been met with excitement and preparation among the Muslim community in the UK.

In summary, while Eid al-Fitr is expected to fall on March 20, 2026, the final confirmation will depend on the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon, a tradition that holds deep cultural and religious significance.

The post Is it Eid today? Eid al-Fitr is expected on March 20, 2026 appeared first on cottenhamnews.

Eid al-Fitr is expected to fall on March 21, 2026, in Pakistan, marking the conclusion of a month dedicated to fasting, reflection, and charity during Ramadan. This significant Islamic holiday is celebrated after the month of Ramadan ends, which in 2026 begins on February 19.

Moon Sighting and Ramadan

The Islamic calendar is lunar, meaning that months last either 29 or 30 days, with their start and end determined by the sighting of the crescent moon. In 2026, the new moon of Shawwal is anticipated to be born on March 19. However, the chances of sighting the Shawwal crescent on that evening are considered low, according to Suparco, the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission of Pakistan.

Crescent Moon Details

On the evening of March 19, the age of the new moon will be approximately 12 hours and 41 minutes at sunset. This timing is critical as it influences the announcement of Eid al-Fitr, which is determined by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee in Pakistan. The exact date of Eid al-Fitr may vary based on the sighting of the moon, leaving some uncertainty in the air.

Holiday Observances in Dubai

In the United Arab Emirates, public sector employees will enjoy a four-day holiday from March 19 to March 22, 2026, aligning with the federal holiday for Eid al-Fitr. Government offices in Dubai will reopen on March 23, while private sector workers will have a holiday from March 19 to March 21. This holiday schedule reflects the significance of Eid al-Fitr in the region.

Significance of Eid al-Fitr

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, a month characterized by fasting from dawn until sunset, increased prayer, and charitable acts. It is a time for families and communities to come together in celebration, sharing meals and exchanging gifts. The holiday emphasizes gratitude and compassion, core tenets of the Islamic faith.

Looking Ahead

As the date approaches, many Muslims in Pakistan and around the world will prepare for the festivities associated with Eid al-Fitr. Observers will be keenly watching for the moon sighting on March 19, which will confirm the exact date of the celebration. Details remain unconfirmed, and the anticipation builds as communities look forward to this important occasion.

The post When is Eid 2026? appeared first on cottenhamnews.

Ramadan began in India on February 19, 2026, following the sighting of the crescent moon on February 18. As the holy month progresses, many Muslims across the country are observing fasting from dawn until sunset.

Today, the sehri time varies across major cities in India. In Lucknow, the sehri time is set for 5:04 AM, while the iftar time will be at 6:13 PM. This timing is crucial for those observing the fast, as it marks the last moment to eat before the day of fasting begins.

In Delhi, the sehri time is slightly later at 5:18 AM, with iftar scheduled for 6:28 PM. The capital city, known for its diverse culture, sees a significant number of people participating in Ramadan festivities.

Moving to Hyderabad, the sehri time is recorded at 5:15 AM, and the iftar will take place at 6:26 PM. The city is renowned for its rich culinary traditions, which are especially celebrated during Ramadan.

Lastly, in Mumbai, the sehri time is the latest among these cities, occurring at 5:39 AM, with iftar at 6:47 PM. Mumbai’s vibrant Muslim community actively engages in various Ramadan activities, including charitable events and community gatherings.

As the month of Ramadan continues, these times will remain significant for millions of Muslims as they observe their fasts and partake in communal prayers and meals.

Authorities and local mosques are expected to continue providing updates on prayer times and any changes that may occur throughout the month.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding any adjustments to these times in the coming days, but community leaders emphasize the importance of adhering to the prescribed timings for sehri and iftar.

The post Sehri time today appeared first on cottenhamnews.

Eid Al Fitr 2026 is expected to be celebrated on Friday, March 20, 2026, for countries that began Ramadan on February 18. This date is contingent upon the visibility of the Shawwal crescent moon, which marks the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Eid festivities.

For those countries that commenced Ramadan a day later, on February 19, 2026, Eid may be declared on Saturday, March 21, 2026, due to crescent visibility issues. The Shawwal crescent moon will not be visible on March 18, making it impossible to declare Eid on that day.

The UAE federal government has announced that the holiday for Eid Al Fitr will extend from March 19 to March 22, 2026. In Saudi Arabia, the Eid Al Fitr holiday will commence at the end of the workday on March 18, allowing citizens to prepare for the celebrations.

On March 19, 2026, the crescent moon is expected to set 29 minutes after sunset in Abu Dhabi, while visibility will be extremely difficult and may require a telescope. In Riyadh, the moon will set 30 minutes after sunset, and in Amman and Jerusalem, it will set 36 minutes after sunset. These timings highlight the challenges in determining the exact date for Eid based on lunar observations.

Countries where Ramadan began on February 18 are expected to complete a full 30 days of fasting, which is a significant aspect of the Islamic tradition. The observance of Eid Al Fitr is a time for communal prayers, feasting, and giving to charity, marking the end of a month of fasting and reflection.

In Bangladesh, the government has declared March 18, 2026, a public holiday, indicating that the country may align its celebrations with those observing Eid on that date. This decision reflects the importance of the holiday across different regions and cultures.

As the date approaches, observers are keenly awaiting the official announcements regarding the moon sighting and the final confirmation of Eid celebrations. Details remain unconfirmed, and variations in the observance of Eid Al Fitr highlight the diverse practices within the Muslim community.

The post When is eid 2026 appeared first on cottenhamnews.

Ramadan began in India on February 19, 2026, after the crescent moon was sighted on February 18. As the holy month progresses, Muslims across the country observe fasting from dawn until sunset, with sehri marking the pre-dawn meal.

Today, the sehri time in Lucknow is set for 05:04 AM, while the iftar time will be at 6:13 PM. Residents are advised to complete their meals before the sehri time to adhere to fasting guidelines.

In Delhi, the sehri time is slightly later at 05:18 AM, with iftar scheduled for 6:28 PM. The capital city is witnessing a significant turnout at mosques for prayers during this holy month.

Moving to Hyderabad, the sehri time is 05:15 AM, and the iftar will take place at 6:26 PM. The city is known for its vibrant Ramadan celebrations, attracting many to partake in communal iftar gatherings.

Finally, in Mumbai, the sehri time is the latest among these cities at 05:39 AM, with iftar occurring at 6:47 PM. The bustling metropolis sees a diverse range of events and activities during Ramadan, reflecting its multicultural fabric.

As the day progresses, many families are preparing for the evening iftar, which is often a time for gathering and sharing meals with loved ones. Observers note that this year, the spirit of community and togetherness is particularly strong.

In summary, the sehri times today across major Indian cities are crucial for those observing the fast. It is important for individuals to be aware of these timings to ensure they can partake in the pre-dawn meal before the fasting period begins.

The post Sehri time today appeared first on cottenhamnews.

Eid Al Fitr 2026 is expected to be celebrated on Friday, March 20, 2026, for countries that began Ramadan on February 18. This date is contingent upon the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon, which plays a crucial role in determining the end of Ramadan.

For those nations that commenced Ramadan a day later, on February 19, 2026, Eid may be observed on Saturday, March 21, 2026. The visibility of the crescent moon is a significant factor in this determination, and reports indicate that the Shawwal crescent will not be visible on March 18, 2026, making it impossible to declare Eid on that day.

Crescent Moon Visibility Challenges

The crescent moon’s visibility is particularly challenging on March 19, 2026. In Abu Dhabi, the moon is expected to set just 29 minutes after sunset, while in Riyadh, it will set 30 minutes after sunset. This limited timeframe makes it extremely difficult to sight the moon without the aid of a telescope. Similarly, in Amman and Jerusalem, the moon will set 36 minutes after sunset, further complicating the visibility.

Countries that began Ramadan on February 18 are projected to complete a full 30 days of fasting, culminating in the celebration of Eid Al Fitr. In Saudi Arabia, the Eid Al Fitr holiday is set to begin at the end of the workday on March 18, 2026, allowing for a festive atmosphere as families prepare for the holiday.

Public Holidays and Observances

The UAE federal government has announced that the holiday for Eid Al Fitr will extend from March 19 to March 22, 2026, providing citizens with a four-day break to celebrate. Meanwhile, Bangladesh has declared March 18, 2026, a public holiday in anticipation of the festivities.

As the date approaches, observers are keenly awaiting the official announcements regarding the moon sighting. The complexities surrounding the visibility of the crescent moon mean that details remain unconfirmed until closer to the date. This uncertainty adds an element of anticipation to the celebrations, as communities prepare for the joyous occasion of Eid Al Fitr.

The post When is eid 2026 appeared first on cottenhamnews.