DJA to Begin Moon Sightings for Shawwal on 18 March, Covers Travel Expenses for Witnesses

The Department of Judicial Administration (DJA) announced today that moon sightings for Shawwal 1447 (2026), marking the end of Ramadan and the start of Eid al-Fitr, will begin on 18 March. Travel expenses for witnesses providing testimony will be covered by the administration.

Witnesses in Malé are required to present their observations before a Judge at a local court, while those on the islands should report to the Magistrate of the respective Magistrate Court. In islands without a resident Magistrate, witnesses should testify before the Magistrate currently in charge of that court.

Testimonies should include details such as the moon’s approximate altitude, direction, and any other relevant observations.

From 5:30 PM on Wednesday, 29th Ramadan (18 March 2026), offices that will remain open until a final decision on the Shawwal moon is reached include:

• Department of Judicial Administration (DJA)
• Magistrate Courts across the islands
• Island Council Offices
• Atoll Council Offices

The DJA urged anyone who sights the crescent moon to report promptly to the Department in Malé or the relevant Magistrate Court on the islands.

For further details, the public may contact the Department at 3340828.