Saudi Arabia Spots Dhu Al Hijjah Crescent Moon; Eid Al Adha Dates Announced!

The wait is over for many families across the Gulf. Authorities in the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Oman have officially confirmed the start of Dhul Hijjah after the crescent moon was spotted on Sunday evening. That means Eid Al Adha in the UAE and several GCC countries will begin on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. The UAE Council for Fatwa said Monday, May 18, will be the first day of Dhul Hijjah. The Day of Arafat, which is one of the most important days in the Islamic calendar, will fall on Tuesday, May 26.

Moon Sighting Confirms Eid Al Adha 2026 Date Across GCC

Across the UAE, people had already started preparing over the weekend. But moon sighting announcements still matter a lot because they decide the official religious dates.

The council reviewed reports from astronomers, specialists and traditional moon-sighters before making the announcement. Observatories around the country were involved too. Also, schools, offices and travel schedules now have clearer timelines. Airports across the region usually get busier around Eid, especially with residents travelling home or planning short holidays.

For some families, it’s less about travel and more about gatherings. Big lunches, late-night visits and the usual “who’s hosting this year?” conversations are already happening.

Hajj Pilgrims Enter The Most Important Days

Saudi Arabia also confirmed the Dhul Hijjah moon sighting on Sunday, which officially sets the timeline for Hajj 2026 as reported by Gulf Business.

The Day of Arafat will take place on May 26, followed by Eid Al Adha the next day. Millions of Muslims around the world usually follow these dates closely because Hajj is linked directly to the Islamic lunar calendar. Hajj remains one of the five pillars of Islam and is required once in a lifetime for Muslims who are physically and financially able to perform it.

That said, not everyone travelling for Hajj this year is doing it easily. Social media is already filled with videos of crowded airports, emotional goodbyes and pilgrims beginning their journeys from different countries.

Also Read: 8 Best Things To Do In Dubai This Eid Al Adha With Family And Friends

Oman Announces Matching Dates

Oman confirmed the same dates shortly after the UAE and Saudi announcements. The country’s moon-sighting committee said the crescent had been seen, making May 18 the first day of Dhul Hijjah and May 27 the start of Eid Al Adha.

So this year, much of the GCC will observe Eid together on the same day, which honestly makes travel and family planning a bit simpler for many residents living across borders.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva

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