Pakistan's Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is meeting on May 17, 2026, to sight the Zilhaj moon and announce the start of Eid-ul-Azha [1], [2].

The outcome of this meeting determines the official date of one of the most significant religious holidays in the Islamic calendar. Because the lunar calendar relies on physical sightings of the new crescent moon, the committee's decision coordinates the timing of prayers and animal sacrifices for millions of people across the country.

The committee is tasked with verifying reports of the moon's visibility from various locations. This process is essential for the transition into the month of Zilhaj for the Hijri year 1447 AH [2]. Once the moon is sighted, the committee officially declares the beginning of the month, which sets the date for the holiday.

There are conflicting reports regarding the specific day of the week for this meeting. One source identifies May 17, 2026, as a Saturday [1], while another source lists May 17, 2026, as a Sunday [2]. Despite this discrepancy in the day of the week, both sources agree on the calendar date of May 17.

The central committee typically gathers in Islamabad to review evidence provided by provincial committees and astronomical data. The decision is then broadcast nationwide to ensure a unified celebration of the holiday. This administrative process prevents confusion and ensures that the religious requirements of the festival are met according to the lunar cycle.

“The outcome of this meeting determines the official date of one of the most significant religious holidays in the Islamic calendar.”

The Ruet-e-Hilal Committee serves as the final authority on the Islamic calendar in Pakistan. By centralizing the moon-sighting process, the state aims to avoid the social and religious fragmentation that occurs when different regions or sects declare holidays on different days. The accuracy of this sighting is critical for the logistical planning of Eid-ul-Azha, which involves significant travel and livestock trade.