Eidul Azha likely to fall on May 27: SUPARCO
The Supreme Court of KSA declared the Ramazan moon sightings in Saudi Arabia. PHOTO: PEXELS
The Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) on Tuesday issued its forecast for the sighting of the Zilhajj 1447 AH moon, stating that Eidul Azha is expected to be observed on May 27, 2026.
According to SUPARCO, the new moon of Zilhajj 1447 AH is expected to be born on May 17, 2026, at 1:01am Pakistan Standard Time (PST).
It said that on May 17, 2026, at sunset, the age of the new moon would be approximately 18 hours and 30 minutes.
The commission stated that a time gap of around 60 minutes between sunset and moonset is expected in Pakistan’s coastal areas.
Based on these astronomical parameters, SUPARCO said the chances of sighting the Zilhajj moon on the evening of May 17, 2026, are considered favourable, provided weather conditions remain clear and visibility near the horizon is good.
It said 1st Zilhajj 1447 Hijri is expected to fall on Monday, May 18, 2026, marking the end of the month of Zilhajj.
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It added that the final decision regarding the sighting of the Zilhajj moon and the commencement of the new Islamic month will be taken by Pakistan’s Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, which is the authorised body for announcing Islamic months based on credible testimonies and verified observations from across the country.
Eidul Azha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, is one of the two major Eid festivals celebrated by Muslims worldwide. It honors the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command.
In recognition of this act of devotion, Muslims around the world engage in the tradition of sacrificing animals, with the meat shared among family, friends, and the less fortunate.
The practice of animal sacrifice is carried out over the three days of Eid, symbolizing Prophet Ibrahim's commitment to God's will.
This act of generosity not only commemorates a sacred historical moment but also reinforces the values of charity, gratitude, and community within the Muslim faith.