The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has officially announced the date for Eid al-Adha 2026 after the crescent moon for Dhul Hijjah 1447 was sighted. The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia confirmed that Eid al-Adha will be celebrated on Wednesday, May 27, 2026.
Crescent Sighting and Key Dates
The blessed month of Dhul Hijjah begins on Sunday, May 17, 2026, following the sighting of the moon. The Day of Arafah, a significant day for pilgrims performing Hajj, will occur on Tuesday, May 26, 2026. This announcement was made by @Muslim via its X handle on Sunday, May 17, 2026.
Another Islamic platform, Haramain @HaramainInfo, also confirmed the news, further solidifying the dates for Muslims worldwide.
Prayers and Wishes for Pilgrims
In a statement, the authorities expressed prayers for the hujjaj (pilgrims): "May Allah grant the hujjaj a safe, accepted and spiritually uplifting Hajj, ease every stage of their journey, and return them home forgiven like the day they were born. Aameen. May Allah also allow us all to maximise the blessed first ten days of Dhul Hijjah through dhikr, fasting, dua, charity and righteous deeds, and may He accept all of our worship and efforts. Aameen."
Significance of Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most important Islamic holidays. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah. Muslims around the world celebrate by performing special prayers, sacrificing an animal, and distributing meat to the needy.
The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are considered highly blessed, and Muslims are encouraged to increase their acts of worship, including fasting, prayer, and charity.
This announcement comes as millions of Muslims prepare for the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, which is a mandatory religious duty for those who are physically and financially able.
