Moon Sighting Process Continues for Eid al-Adha 2026

Islamic authorities in several countries are monitoring the crescent moon to determine the start of Eid al-Adha 2026 [1, 2].

The timing of the sighting is critical because it officially marks the beginning of the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah [1, 2]. This determination dictates when millions of Muslims worldwide will begin the pilgrimage to Mecca and celebrate the holiday.

Qatar has already released its expected dates for the holiday ^[1]. However, the official sighting from Saudi Arabia, the primary moon-sighting authority, is still awaited [1, 2]. This delay often leads to varying start dates across different regions depending on whether local or global sightings are prioritized.

Other nations, including Morocco, Tunisia, and Turkey, are also involved in the monitoring process [1, 2]. In some Muslim-majority countries, authorities have already declared the start of Dhul-Hijjah based on their specific astronomical calculations or sightings ^[1].

Traditionally, the sighting of the new crescent moon is required to finalize the lunar calendar [1, 2]. Because the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, the exact date of Eid al-Adha can shift annually relative to the Gregorian calendar. For 2026, the celebrations are expected to occur around late June or early July [1, 2].

Religious leaders and government officials in these nations continue to coordinate to ensure the accuracy of the lunar transition ^[1]. The process remains a focal point for global Muslim communities as they prepare for the spiritual obligations associated with the month of Dhul-Hijjah ^[2].