Muslims Await Dhul Hijjah Moon Sighting in Mid-May 2026

Muslims worldwide are gearing up for the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon in mid-May 2026, a key event that will confirm the start of the final month in the Islamic lunar calendar and set the official dates for the Hajj pilgrimage and Eid Al-Adha holiday.

Official moon-sighting committees in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates plan to scan the skies on the evening of Saturday, May 16, the 29th day of Dhul Qidah 1447 AH. If the crescent appears, Dhul Hijjah will begin the following day, May 17, placing Eid Al-Adha, which falls on the 10th of the month, around May 26. Religious authorities in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh expect to conduct their sightings a day later, on the evening of Sunday, May 17. Astronomers from the International Astronomical Center and the Sharjah Space and Astronomy Hub predict the new moon will form early on May 17, making the crescent easily visible to the naked eye that evening across much of the Islamic world.

The process hinges on actual physical sightings, though favorable viewing conditions are anticipated in the Middle East. If the crescent eludes observers on the expected date, Dhul Qidah will extend to 30 days, shifting Dhul...