The UAE Council for Fatwa has confirmed that Monday, 18 May 2026, marks the first day of Dhul Hijjah 1447 AH, following the sighting of the crescent moon on the evening of Sunday, 17 May 2026 – the 29th of Dhul Qa’dah 1447 AH.
The council’s announcement came after a review of moon-sighting results and observation reports submitted by specialists, experts, and traditional moon-sighters across the United Arab Emirates.
The sightings were conducted through an approved observatory network supervised by institutions and centres in the fields of space and astronomy sciences.
Eid Al Adha to fall on May 27, 2026
As a consequence of the moon sighting, the council announced that Wednesday, May 27, will be the first day of Eid Al Adha in the United Arab Emirates.
Eid Al Adha, one of the two principal celebrations in the Islamic calendar, marks the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage season and commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (peace be upon him) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God.
The occasion is observed with prayers, the ritual of Udhiya (the sacrifice of livestock), and gatherings of family and community.
