Dar al-Ifta al-Misriyyah and the Seven Field Committees
Dar al-Ifta, founded in 1895, coordinates nationwide moon sighting in close collaboration with the National Research Institute of Astronomy and Geophysics (NRIAG) at Helwan and the Egyptian General Survey Authority. Specialized teams travel to high-visibility desert observation posts to record the birth of the Hilal.
Al-Azhar Al-Sharif and Islamic Jurisprudence
The Council of Senior Scholars of Al-Azhar provides foundational legal guidance. Egyptian jurisprudence harmonizes astronomical calculations with physical sightings: astronomical certainty is used to dismiss impossible sightings, while actual visual sighting confirms the entrance of religious months.
Cairo Time & Islamic Celebrations
Egypt operates on Africa/Cairo time. During major holidays like Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and the Mawlid, public holidays are granted across government and private sectors.