Eidul Azha 2026 Date Confirmed in Pakistan After Zilhajj Moon Sighting

Pakistan Announces Eidul Azha Date Officially

The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee has officially confirmed the sighting of the Zilhajj moon in Pakistan, ending days of public anticipation about when Eidul Azha will be celebrated across the country. According to the announcement, Eidul Azha will fall on May 27, while the first day of Zilhajj 1447 AH begins on May 18.

The decision was announced after an important moon sighting meeting held in Karachi under the leadership of Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Chairman Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad.

Where Was the Moon Seen?

Moon sighting testimonies were received from several cities including Karachi, Peshawar, Mardan, Rawalpindi and other areas of Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Officials stated that weather conditions remained mostly clear in many parts of the country, making moon visibility easier than expected.

People across Pakistan had been waiting closely for the final announcement, especially those planning Qurbani arrangements, travel and Eid shopping.

Why Was This Moon Sighting Important?

Every year, the Zilhajj moon announcement becomes one of the most discussed religious events in Pakistan. Families begin preparing for Eidul Azha immediately after confirmation, while cattle markets witness massive rushes.

This year too, social media platforms quickly filled with reactions after the official announcement. Many users shared excitement about Eid holidays, Qurbani preparations and family gatherings.

But have you noticed how moon sighting discussions unite millions of Pakistanis every year? From major cities to small villages, everyone waits for that one announcement.

SUPARCO’s Prediction Turned Out Accurate

Interestingly, Pakistan’s space agency SUPARCO had already predicted that Eidul Azha was likely to be observed on May 27. According to its earlier forecast, the moon was expected to be visible because of favorable astronomical conditions.

SUPARCO explained that the new moon was born during early morning hours on May 17 and its age by sunset was considered suitable for visibility. Experts also mentioned that coastal areas had better chances of moon sighting due to clearer horizons.

The official announcement later matched those predictions almost exactly.

Eid Preparations Begin Across Pakistan

With the date now confirmed, markets across Pakistan are expected to become busier in coming days. From sacrificial animal markets to clothing stores and food businesses, Eid-related activity will now rise rapidly.

Citizens are also expected to finalize travel plans to visit relatives and hometowns before Eid celebrations begin.

As excitement builds nationwide, one thing is certain: Eidul Azha remains one of the most emotional and spiritually significant occasions for Muslims across Pakistan.

Source:

Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, Ministry of Religious Affairs, SUPARCO