Muslims worldwide are getting ready for the upcoming Eid Al-Adha 2026 moon sighting, as astronomers anticipate the visibility of the Dhul Hijjah crescent in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and parts of the UK later this month.
The crescent moon, signaling the start of the Islamic month, is expected to be observable on May 17, according to astronomers. However, the confirmed sighting will determine the exact commencement date. If seen, Dhul Hijjah, the final month in the Islamic calendar, will begin on May 18, aligning Eid Al-Adha around May 27.
Eid al-Adha, a significant festival in Islam, traditionally spans three days. Observances include special prayers, gatherings with loved ones, communal meals, charitable acts, and the sacrificial offering of animals, with the meat often distributed to the less fortunate.
On the evening of May 17, 2026, Saudi Arabia is set to conduct the official moon sighting for Dhul Hijjah. Moon sighting committees in the Kingdom will scan for the crescent post-sunset, with favorable viewing conditions anticipated in parts of the Middle East.
Should the crescent be sighted, May 18 will mark the start of Dhul Hijjah. Eid Al-Adha falls on the 10th day of that month, likely commencing on May 27. Conversely, if the moon remains unseen, the Islamic month of Dhul Qa’dah will extend to 30 days, delaying Eid by a day.
In the UK, some Muslims follow moon sightings from Saudi Arabia, while others rely on local observations. Weather conditions can impact crescent visibility in Britain, occasionally leading to varying start dates for Islamic months within communities.
Experts suggest that spotting the crescent moon with the naked eye in parts of the UK on May 17 may be challenging, but telescopes and clear skies could enhance visibility. Mosques and Islamic organizations across Britain are expected to provide guidance closer to the anticipated sighting date.
Eid dates vary due to differing methods used by countries and Islamic authorities to determine the start of the lunar month. While some adhere strictly to physical moon sightings, others rely on astronomical calculations to forecast crescent visibility, leading to potential discrepancies in announcing the beginning of Dhu al-Hijjah across countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Pakistan, Morocco, and the UK.