Eid al-Fitr in Benin
In Benin, the law lists the “Day of Ramadan” as a legal holiday across the country and says legal holidays are observed as paid days off. The date follows the Islamic calendar, while the law does not set a fixed Gregorian date or state a substitute-day rule for this holiday.[1]
Meaning and timing
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting. Because the Islamic calendar follows lunar months, its Gregorian date changes from year to year.[2]
A Metropolitan Museum of Art collection entry describes Korité, the Senegalese name for Eid al-Fitr, as marking the end of Ramadan and depicts morning prayer.[2]
Its status in Benin
Benin’s Law No. 90-019 of 27 July 1990 includes “Jour du Ramadan” in its list of legal holidays. It applies across the territory of Benin, and Article 2 states that legal holidays are non-working and paid.[1]
For a particular year, check the relevant announcement from Benin’s religious authorities for the date set locally; a recurring Gregorian date should not be assumed.[1]
Planning around the holiday
The legal designation means the day is intended as a paid non-working holiday. The law does not specify individual opening hours for banks, shops, transport services or private offices, so visitors should confirm arrangements directly with the provider or business they plan to use.[1]
Visitors who attend a prayer or gathering should follow local guidance and ask before photographing people. The Senegalese museum example should not be treated as a guide to practice in Benin.
Frequently asked questions
Is Eid al-Fitr a public holiday in Benin?
Yes. Benin’s law lists the “Day of Ramadan” as a legal holiday across the country and says legal holidays are non-working and paid.[1]
When does it fall?
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan. Its Gregorian date changes with the Islamic lunar calendar, so check the date announced for the year you plan to visit.[2]
Are banks, shops and transport open?
The legal designation means the day is intended as a paid non-working holiday.[1] Shops and transport operators set their own hours, so check with them before you travel.
Is there a substitute day off if it falls on a weekend?
The law does not specify a substitute day for this holiday.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for End of Ramadan (Eid al-Fitr) in Benin:
- Loi N° 90-019 du 27 juillet 1990 fixant les Fêtes Légales en République du Bénin- Secrétariat général du Gouvernement du Bénin
- La korité, éd. 6/8- The Metropolitan Museum of Art