A file photo of Dar Al-Ifta Headquarters in Cairo.
In a statement, Dar al-Ifta said its legal and scientific committees observed the crescent of Muharram after sunset on Monday, corresponding to the 29th of Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 AH and 15 June 2026, across various locations nationwide.
The authority confirmed the legally valid sighting of the crescent, declaring the start of Muharram 1448 AH.
Last week, Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly issued a decree declaring Thursday, 18 June, a paid official holiday for public and private sector employees on the occasion of the Hijri New Year.
The decision applies to employees in ministries, government agencies, public authorities, local administration units, public sector companies, and state-owned enterprises.
Egypt made Thursday an alternative day off for official holidays that fall midweek to give citizens a longer weekend.
The Hijri Calendar, which began in AD 622, is used by Muslims around the globe to determine when to mark the holy month of Ramadan, as well as the Hajj pilgrimage and other Islamic events.
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