End of Ramadan (Eid al-Fitr) in Mauritania

A holiday set by law

Mauritania’s Law 92.018 lists El Fitre alongside other legal holidays, including El Mawlid, El Adha and Mouharram. It describes legal holidays as non-working and paid. The law also allows the president to declare additional days or parts of days as holidays by decree, with the decree specifying whether that extra time off is to be made up or paid; the text does not set a substitute-day rule specifically for Eid al-Fitr.[1]

The holiday follows the Islamic calendar. It is observed on 1 Shawwal, the month that begins when Ramadan ends. As a result, its Gregorian date changes from year to year.[1]

Prayer, gratitude and charity

Eid al-Fitr has a wider Islamic meaning as a celebration after Ramadan’s fasting and prayer. In a report from Nouakchott, the imam’s Eid sermon described the day as an occasion to give thanks, gather, visit one another and exchange greetings.[2]

A large Eid prayer at Nouakchott’s Grand Mosque was attended by the president, senior officials and many residents. This is an example of a public observance in the capital.[2]

The sermon also discussed Zakat al-Fitr, the charity associated with the end of Ramadan. The imam explained that it should preferably be given in staple foods eaten by the population. Check with local families about meals, clothing and other customs.[2]

What to expect

The law’s designation of Eid as non-working and paid provides a practical reason to check arrangements before visiting a public office or planning work. Check opening hours with banks, shops and transport providers, and confirm directly with the service you need.[1]

Eid celebrations can include prayer and family visits. Check with local families about plans for visits and festivities.[2]