The Ruet-e-Hilal Research Council has released its scientific forecast regarding Eidul Adha 2026 in Pakistan, suggesting that the religious festival is likely to be observed on Wednesday, May 27, 2026.
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According to the council’s latest report, there is a strong probability that the crescent moon marking the start of Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 AH will be visible on Sunday evening, May 17, under clear weather conditions.
Secretary General Khalid Ijaz Mufti stated that astronomical data shows the new moon will be born at 1:15am Pakistan time between May 16 and 17. By sunset on May 17, the moon will be over 18 hours old in most parts of the country, which is generally sufficient for naked-eye visibility.
Eid al-Adha 2026 in Pakistan is expected to fall between May 27-29, depending on the sighting of the Dhul-Hijjah (Zil Hajj) moon.
If confirmed, public holidays could run from May 27-29, and with the weekend, many may get up to a 5-day break. pic.twitter.com/vu7h39BcEl— HUM News English (@humnews_english) April 30, 2026
The council further explained that the time gap between sunset and moonset on May 17 is expected to be around 55 minutes in Karachi and up to 63 minutes in Peshawar, increasing the likelihood of successful moon sighting.
If the crescent is sighted on May 17, Dhu al-Hijjah will begin on May 18, placing Eidul Adha on May 27, 2026. The report also notes the possibility that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia may observe Eid on the same date this year, depending on moon sighting outcomes.
However, officials clarified that the prediction is based on scientific calculations and weather assumptions. If cloudy conditions prevent moon sighting on May 17, the month of Dhu al-Qi’dah will complete 30 days, and Eidul Adha will instead fall on Thursday, May 28, 2026.
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The council emphasized that the final decision will be announced after the official meeting of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, which is responsible for confirming moon sighting in Pakistan.