Eid al-Adha, the Islamic festival of sacrifice, is expected to be observed on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, in most Muslim-majority countries. This date is based on the Islamic lunar calendar, which determines the start of Dhul Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic year.
According to astronomical calculations verified by multiple Islamic authorities, the crescent moon for Dhul Hijjah was sighted on May 17, 2026, making May 18 the first day of the month. Eid al-Adha is celebrated on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, corresponding to May 27, 2026.
Countries including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Turkey have confirmed this date. However, some communities may observe the festival on May 28, depending on local moon sighting traditions.
The festival commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. Muslims worldwide will perform prayers, sacrifice livestock, and distribute meat to the needy.
