Eid al-Adha 2026: Astronomical Projections Point to May 27

Key facts

• Eid al-Adha 2026 is projected for Wednesday, May 27, based on astronomical calculations.
• The crescent moon for Dhu Al Hijjah 1447 AH is forecast to be born on May 17.
• Arafat Day is expected to fall on Tuesday, May 26.
• The Ruet-e-Hilal Research Council predicts the new moon for Zilhaj 1447 AH on the night of May 16-17.
• Pakistan's moon sighting committee will convene on May 17.
• Authorities in Karachi have approved the establishment of cattle markets at five locations.
• Holidays could range from four to five days, including the weekend.

Global Preparations for Eid al-Adha 2026 Begin

Muslims worldwide are commencing preparations for Eid al-Adha 2026, with anticipation building for the precise dates of the Islamic festival. The holiday, marked by sacrifice and communal gatherings, requires careful planning for travel and celebrations. Astronomical projections offer an early glimpse into the potential schedule, suggesting the observance could commence on Wednesday, May 27. This date, however, remains contingent on the official sighting of the Dhu Al Hijjah crescent moon. In Pakistan, the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is set to convene on May 17 to determine the exact start of the Islamic month of Zilhaj, which dictates the timing of Eid al-Adha. The outcome of this sighting will finalize the holiday calendar.

Astronomical Forecasts Align on May 27

Based on scientific calculations, Eid al-Adha is expected to begin on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Society, projects the Dhu Al Hijjah crescent moon to be born on Sunday, May 17, at 12:01 AM UAE time. This celestial event is forecast to be visible shortly after sunset on May 17, approximately 58 minutes after the sun dips below the horizon. Such conditions, if met with favourable weather, would likely place the first day of Dhu Al Hijjah on Monday, May 18, and subsequently Arafat Day on Tuesday, May 26. Similarly, the Ruet-e-Hilal Research Council in Pakistan has predicted the new moon for Zilhaj 1447 AH to occur on the night between May 16 and 17. Secretary General Khalid Ijaz Mufti anticipates the moon's visibility on the evening of Sunday, May 17, pointing towards Eid al-Adha on Wednesday, May 27, potentially coinciding with Saudi Arabia's observance.

The Crucial Role of Moon Sighting

The precise timing of Eid al-Adha hinges on the sighting of the crescent moon, a tradition deeply embedded in Islamic practice. While astronomical calculations provide a strong forecast, official confirmation rests with designated moon sighting committees. In Pakistan, the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, led by Chairman Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, will hold its crucial meeting on May 17. Their decision will determine whether the first day of Zilhaj falls on May 18 or is postponed to May 19, should the moon remain unobserved due to weather or other factors. This reliance on visual confirmation means that projections, while informative, are not definitive. The committee's findings will be the ultimate determinant of the holiday's commencement and duration.

Potential Holiday Schedules and Travel Plans

The anticipated May 27 start date for Eid al-Adha could offer citizens a significant break. Initial estimates suggest a holiday period of four to five consecutive days, depending on the moon sighting and the inclusion of the weekend. If the moon is sighted on May 17, Eid holidays might span from May 27 to May 29, extending to May 31 with the weekend. This would grant a five-day respite. Alternatively, if the 30th day of Zilqad is completed, Eid could fall on May 28 and 29, resulting in a four-day holiday. These potential breaks are crucial for many planning travel and family visits, underscoring the importance of timely official announcements.

Logistical Preparations Underway in Karachi

As the festival approaches, authorities are making practical arrangements to manage the influx of people and animals. In Karachi, the Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) has received approval to establish cattle markets at five key locations across the city. These designated sites include Sunday Bazar in North Karachi, KMC Grounds, Safari Park, and specific blocks in Gulistan-e-Johar. Additional markets will operate in the Lyari's Bakra Piri area and Korangi. The KMC had initially requested permission for 11 livestock markets, aiming to regulate the trade of sacrificial animals and provide organized facilities for both vendors and buyers.

The bottom line

• Eid al-Adha 2026 is astronomically projected for Wednesday, May 27.
• The start of the Islamic month Dhu Al Hijjah is expected around May 17-18.
• Official moon sightings on May 17 will confirm the final dates.
• Holiday durations are estimated between four and five days.
• Cattle markets are being organized in Karachi for the festival.
• The timing may align with observances in Saudi Arabia.