Muslims across Pakistan are getting ready to celebrate Eid ul Adha, one of the most important festivals in Islam. The Ruet-e-Hilal Research Council has issued its scientific prediction, stating that there is a strong likelihood the festival will be observed on Wednesday, 27 May 2026.
According to the council’s Secretary General, Khalid Ijaz Mufti, scientific data shows that the new moon will be born at 1:15 am Pakistan time on the night between 16 and 17 May. By sunset on 17 May, the moon’s age will exceed 18 hours in most parts of the country, which is sufficient for it to be visible to the naked eye.
The council also expects that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia may observe Eid ul Adha on the same day this year. However, if the moon is not sighted on May 17 due to cloudy conditions, Eid ul Adha could fall a day later on Thursday, 28 May.
Since the first day of Eid falls on a Wednesday, the government is likely to announce a five-day holiday, running from Wednesday through Sunday, giving citizens a long break to perform Qurbani and visit family and friends.
Cattle markets have already started operating in major cities, including Karachi’s Northern Bypass and Lahore’s Shahpur Kanjra, with animals arriving from traders across the country. Market observers note that prices of sacrificial animals may be higher this year due to increased feed costs.
Eid ul Adha commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command. On this day, Muslims perform Qurbani, the ritual sacrifice of an animal, and divide the meat into three parts: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for those in need.
The final date will be officially confirmed by the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee after moon sighting on 17 May.
