Saudi Arabia has officially confirmed the sighting of the Zilhajj crescent moon, marking the beginning of the final month of the Islamic calendar. Following the announcement by the Saudi Supreme Court, the first day of Zilhajj 1447 AH will be observed on May 18, 2026.
After sighting the moon, the Kingdom confirmed that the annual Hajj pilgrimage will take place on May 26, which will also be observed as the Day of Arafat. Saudi Arabia will celebrate Eid al-Adha, one of the most significant Islamic festivals, on May 27.
Hajj Pilgrims To Gather At Mount Arafat
Millions of pilgrims gather at the plains of Arafat near Makkah for prayers and worship, making the Day of Arafat the most important ritual of Hajj. Muslims believe this day holds immense spiritual importance, as pilgrims seek forgiveness and blessings during the sacred gathering.
Saudi authorities have already finalized extensive arrangements for the Hajj season, including transportation, security, healthcare, and crowd management systems to facilitate millions of worshippers arriving from around the world.
Pakistan Announces Eid al-Adha Date
Pakistan’s Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee also confirmed the sighting of the Zilhajj moon after receiving testimonies from several cities, including Karachi, Rawalpindi, Peshawar, and Mardan.
Chairman of the committee, Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad, announced that the first day of Zilhajj in Pakistan would also fall on May 18. Pakistan will celebrate Eid al-Adha on May 27, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s date this year.
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The synchronized moon sighting means Muslims in both countries will observe the religious occasion on the same date, which often differs due to regional moon visibility conditions.
SUPARCO Prediction Matches Moon Sighting
Earlier, before the official announcement, Pakistan’s Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) had predicted strong chances of moon visibility across the country. According to the agency, the new moon was born during the early hours of May 17, making conditions favorable for sighting the crescent by the evening.
Moon sighting reports came from multiple regions, proving the prediction accurate and enabling authorities to make an official declaration without delay.
Eid al-Adha Preparations Begin
Following the announcement, preparations for Eid al-Adha have accelerated across Pakistan and other Muslim countries. As people begin purchasing sacrificial animals, clothing, and other festive items, markets witness increased activity.
Meanwhile, travel and Hajj operations are also intensifying as pilgrims continue arriving in Saudi Arabia for the annual pilgrimage. Authorities in the Kingdom are focusing on ensuring smooth arrangements amid the arrival of millions of international visitors.
Importance Of Zilhajj In Islam
Zilhajj is one of the holiest months in the Islamic calendar and holds great significance for Muslims worldwide. The month includes the Hajj pilgrimage and Eid al-Adha, both of which symbolize sacrifice, devotion, and unity among Muslims.
Islam regards the first ten days of Zilhajj as highly blessed and encourages Muslims to increase prayers, charity, fasting, and good deeds during this sacred period.
