The Islamic lunar calendar is continuing and Muslims in Pakistan and around the world are eagerly anticipating the Festival of Sacrifice. Recently, the Ruet-e-Hilal Research Council (RHRC) has published its scientific prediction of the Expected Eid ul Adha Date 2026, which gives a clear picture of when the Zilhaj moon will be seen and when the following religious holidays will take place.
When Will the Zilhaj Moon Be Sighted?
It is stated by the Secretary General of the RHRC, Khalid Ejaz Mufti that the new moon is supposed to be born at 1:01 AM (Pakistan Standard Time) between May 16 and May 17, 2026.
Most of the parts of Pakistan will have a moon age of over 18 hours by the evening of Sunday, May 17. Astronomically, a moon age over 15 hours is typically adequate to be seen with the naked eye, as long as the weather is clear. It is estimated that the Karachi and Peshawar time difference between sunset and moonset is about 55 and 63 minutes respectively, and thus, it is even more likely to have a successful sighting.
Expected Eid ul Adha Date 2026
According to these astronomical computations, the council has identified two main scenarios:
Scenario A (Moon sighted on May 17): In case the crescent is visible on Sunday evening, the 1st of Zilhaj 1447 AH will be on Monday, May 18. Therefore, Eid ul Adha would be celebrated on Wednesday, May 27, 2026.
Scenario B (Moon not sighted): In case of bad visibility or heavy clouds, we are unable to sight the moon on May 17, the month of Zilqad will be complete in 30 days. This year, Zilhaj is May 19 and Eid ul Adha will be on Thursday, May 28, 2026.
Council was very optimistic about Scenario A since there is often a clear sky in late May in southern and central Pakistan.
Uniform Eid: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia
One of the most notable highlights of this year’s forecast is the chances of a Uniform Eid. According to the RHRC, the sun and the moon are in such a way that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia could share Eid ul Adha this year. Pakistan traditionally celebrates the festival one day after the Kingdom, although in 2026 the lunar eclipse may close the gap, and the global celebrations are likely to seem a uniting factor.
Official Confirmation and Preparations
Though scientific predictions offer a very good reference point when planning, the ultimate decision maker is the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee; this is run under the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony. The committee conducts its official meeting on the 29 th day of every Islamic month in order to receive testimonies throughout the country.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) will also be involved in the process of assisting in the sighting process technically. This forecast is an important guide to those intending to make early preparations in purchasing their sacrificial animal or travelling.
