Pakistan's Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will meet Sunday, May 17, 2026 [1], to sight the Dhul-Hijjah crescent and announce the date of Eid-ul-Adha [1].
The meeting is critical because the sighting of the moon determines the start of the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah. This official announcement dictates when millions of Muslims across Pakistan will begin their religious observances and celebrate the holiday.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony announced the schedule on Saturday [1]. The committee is tasked with coordinating reports from various regions to ensure a unified date for the country [2].
"The meeting will be held on May 17 to ensure a timely and accurate announcement of Eid-ul-Adha," the Minister of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony said [1].
To finalize the decision, the committee will evaluate evidence provided by observers from across the nation. The Chairman of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee said, "We will review all moon-sighting reports from across the country before announcing the Eid date" [2].
While Pakistan prepares its sighting process, other regional authorities are taking similar steps. The Saudi Supreme Court issued a statement calling on Muslims across the Kingdom to sight the crescent moon on the evening of Sunday, May 17, 2026 [2].
Some conflicting reports regarding the 2026 holiday dates have circulated in other regions. One report suggested a date as early as March 20, 2026 [3], but Pakistani authorities are proceeding with the May 17 meeting to determine the actual date based on the lunar cycle [1].
“"We will review all moon-sighting reports from across the country before announcing the Eid date."”
The reliance on a formal committee meeting underscores the intersection of religious tradition and state administration in Pakistan. By centralizing the moon-sighting process, the government aims to prevent conflicting dates that can lead to social confusion and fragmented celebrations within the community.
