Pakistani religious authorities are conducting a live observation to sight the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon to determine the start of Eid al-Adha [1].

The sighting is critical because it establishes the official calendar for the Muslim community in Pakistan. Because the Islamic calendar relies on lunar cycles, the exact date of the holiday varies annually based on the visibility of the new moon.

The official moon-sighting committee is leading the efforts to identify the crescent [1]. If the moon is sighted, Eid al-Adha will be observed on May 26, 2026 [1]. This process involves observers across the country reporting visibility to a central authority to ensure a unified date for the national holiday.

This year's observation takes place in 2026 [1]. The committee's decision impacts millions of citizens who must prepare for the religious rituals associated with the holiday, including the traditional sacrifice of livestock, and the coordination of public holidays and travel.

Religious officials typically coordinate with observers in various regions to confirm the sighting. Once the crescent is verified, the committee announces the official date to the public, allowing families to finalize their celebrations and religious obligations for the month of Dhul Hijjah [1].

“Eid al-Adha will be observed on May 26, 2026 if the moon is sighted.”

The reliance on physical moon-sighting rather than purely astronomical calculations ensures adherence to traditional religious jurisprudence. In Pakistan, the official committee's ruling is the primary authority for the state's holiday schedule, meaning any delay or disagreement in sighting can lead to varying dates of celebration across different regions or sects.