Eid al-Adha 2026 Moon Sighting in Saudi Arabia: Dhul Hijjah Crescent Sighted, Bakrid on May 27
The Dhul Hijjah (Dhu al-Hijjah) crescent moon has been successfully sighted in Saudi Arabia, officially marking the beginning of the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar. With the crescent confirmed, Eid al-Adha (Eid Ul Azha) will be celebrated on May 27, 2026, in Saudi Arabia, with Arafat Day falling on May 26.
The Dhul Hijjah (Dhu al-Hijjah) crescent moon has been successfully sighted in Saudi Arabia, officially marking the beginning of the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar. With the crescent confirmed, Eid al-Adha (Eid Ul Azha) will be celebrated on May 27, 2026, in Saudi Arabia, with Arafat Day falling on May 26.
The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia had earlier called upon the public to assist in the moon sighting process, urging anyone who spotted the crescent - whether with the naked eye or through a telescope - to report their sighting to the nearest court or centre. Authorities also relied on observatories in Sudair and Tumair for official confirmation. Bakrid 2026 Moon Sighting Update: Crescent Not Sighted, Eid Ul Azha on May 28 in India.
Following Saudi Arabia's announcement, several Gulf nations including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan are expected to align their Eid al-Adha (Eid Ul Azha) observances with the Kingdom, with Bakrid celebrations likely to take place on May 27 across the region. Eid al-Adha 2026 Date: When Is Bakrid in Saudi Arabia?
The sighting of the Dhul Hijjah (Dhu al-Hijjah) crescent is one of the most significant moments in the Islamic calendar, as it sets the schedule for the Hajj pilgrimage and confirms the date of Eid al-Adha (Eid Ul Azha), celebrated on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah (Dhu al-Hijjah). The occasion commemorates the spirit of sacrifice and is marked by prayers, the Qurbani ritual, and festivities among Muslim communities worldwide.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 17, 2026 09:08 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).