EMB and Belgian Islamic Calendar Authority
The Exécutif des Musulmans de Belgique (EMB) was officially recognized by the Belgian state in 1998 and is mandated to represent Muslim interests in government affairs, including moon sighting declarations. The EMB coordinates with Islamic scholars in Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and Liège to announce Ramadan and Eid dates.
Moon Sighting across the Belgian Regions
On the 29th of each lunar month, sighting committees organized by the EMB observe the western horizon from Brussels, Antwerp, Liège, and the Flemish coast. The EMB also maintains coordination with the Morocco Ministry of Endowments and the Turkish Diyanet, given the heritage of the two largest Belgian Muslim communities.
Civil Rollover and Community Practice
The Islamic date updates at 12:00 AM midnight CET (Europe/Brussels, UTC+1 or CEST UTC+2 in summer). During Ramadan, Belgian mosques organize iftar events attended by politicians and community leaders in a strong tradition of interfaith dialogue.