Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia announced that Monday, May 18, 2026, will be the first day of Dhu al-Hijjah for the year 1447 AH. The Day of Arafah will be on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, and the first day of Eid al-Adha will be on Wednesday, May 27, 2026.
This announcement follows the confirmed sighting of the new moon by the relevant authorities.
Official announcement of the start of Dhu al-Hijjah
The announcement by the Saudi Supreme Court came after the sighting of the crescent moon on Sunday evening.
Religious and astronomical authorities confirmed the beginning of the month of Dhu al-Hijjah.
Muslims in the Kingdom and across the Islamic world have begun preparing
for the Hajj pilgrimage and other religious observances associated with this holy month.
Dhu al-Hijjah is considered one of the most important months of the Islamic calendar.
Arafat Day is on May 26th
According to the official statement, Tuesday, May 26, 2026, will be the Day of Arafah, the ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah.
On this day, pilgrims performing Hajj will stand on Mount Arafat, the most important rite of the pilgrimage.
Muslims around the world will observe a fast on this day due to its great significance in Islamic law.
Eid al-Adha is on Wednesday, May 27th
The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia confirmed that the first day of Eid al-Adha will fall on Wednesday, May 27, 2026.
The Eid rituals begin with the Eid prayer, the sacrifice of animals,
and the exchange of greetings among Muslims.
The religious and social atmosphere extends for several days.
The Supreme Court had previously called upon all Muslims to look for the crescent moon on Sunday evening.
It also emphasized the importance of participating in the official moon sighting
and reporting any sighting to the nearest court or relevant authority.
This is part of the procedures regulating the announcement of the beginning of the Islamic months in the Kingdom.
