CFCM press release – Ramadan 1447 H: start on Thursday February 19, 2026, Eid El Fitr on Friday March 20, 2026

The French Council of Muslim Worship (CFCM) informs the Muslim faithful in France that Thursday February 19, 2026 will mark the first day of the month of Ramadan (1447 AH) and that Friday March 20, 2026 will correspond to Eid El Fitr. These dates were decided in accordance with scientific data relating to the observation of the new moon. This press release also specifies the rules linked to Zakat El Fitr, exemptions from fasting and compensatory alms (Fidya), in a spirit of meditation, solidarity and sharing.

CFCM press release

According to scientific data, the conjunction of the new moon of Ramadan 1447 AH will take place Tuesday February 17, 2026 at 1:01 p.m. (Paris time). The conditions necessary for the visibility of the new moon will only be met February 18, 2026.

Also, the French Council of Muslim Worship (CFCM) announces that:

• Thursday February 19, 2026 is the first day of the month of Ramadan in the year 1447 H ;

• Friday March 20, 2026 is the day of Eid El Fitr in the year 1447 H.

On this occasion, the CFCM sends its best wishes to all Muslims in France and wishes them a month of meditation, tranquility, solidarity and sharing.

Zakat El Fitr: 9 euros per person

Obligatory alms, Zakat El Fitrdue by each Muslim family, is set this year at 9 euros per person.

This amount, calculated in accordance with religious rules, takes into account the means of the donor as well as the needs of the beneficiary. However, there are legitimate differences regarding the evaluation of this alms, generally between 7 and 12 euros. Each faithful can thus pay the amount recommended by their religious authority of reference.

Zakat El Fitr is intended for deprived people. It is recommended to benefit the needy in your place of residence; however, if necessary, it can be sent elsewhere. Its payment, which generally occurs at the end of the month of Ramadan, can however be made from the first day of the month.

Exemptions from fasting

Concerning the practice of fasting, the CFCM recalls that tradition provides for exemptions for people whose state of health or situation does not allow fasting. These include:
the elderly, the sick, pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as travelers.

It is also recommended to consult your doctor in advance in order to obtain medical advice and act accordingly.

Compensatory alms (Fidya)

People who are unable to make up missed fasting days due to permanent disability (chronic illnesses, advanced age, etc.) may be required, in certain cases, to pay a compensatory alms (fidya) for the benefit of people in need.

According to the legal opinion followed, the amount of this alms, per day missed, can vary between:

• the equivalent of Zakat El Fitr (between 7 and 12 euros),

• his half (between 3.5 and 6 euros),

• or its quarter (between 2 and 3 euros).

In all cases, the CFCM recommends that everyone follow the advice that best corresponds to their personal situation.

Destination of Zakat El Fitr and Fidya

The collection and distribution of Zakat El Fitr and Fidya can be entrusted to a charitable association. However, it is imperative to remember that these alms are exclusively intended for poor people and can under no circumstances be used to finance a mosque.

For the sake of transparency, mosques collecting funds for their operations must clearly inform donors and keep separate funds.

Paris, February 2, 2026
The French Council of Muslim Worship (CFCM)