Get real time updates directly on you device, subscribe now.
Introduction
Every year, the moon sighting for the holy month of Zilhaj (Dhul Hijjah) is one of the most anticipated religious announcements across Pakistan. Millions of Muslims eagerly await confirmation of the crescent to mark the beginning of the sacred month and the countdown to Eid ul Azha — also known as Baqra Eid. Pak Net brings you the latest and most accurate update on this year’s Zilhaj moon sighting for 2026.
Zilhaj Moon Officially Sighted — Eid ul Azha on May 27
The Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee convened its official moon-sighting session on the evening of May 17, 2026 in Karachi. Simultaneously, zonal committee meetings were held in Islamabad, Lahore, Quetta, and Peshawar to gather testimonies from across the country.
After reviewing all reports, Ruet-i-Hilal Committee Chairman Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad addressed a press conference. He confirmed that the skies were mostly clear throughout Pakistan, except in a few regions.
Moon sighting testimonies were successfully received from:
- Karachi and multiple cities across Sindh
- Mardan
- Rawalpindi
- Peshawar
- Several other areas
Based on these confirmed sightings, the committee unanimously announced:
✅ 1st Zilhaj 1447 AH = Monday, May 18, 2026 ✅ Eid ul Azha 2026 = Wednesday, May 27, 2026
What SUPARCO Predicted — Science Meets Tradition
Well before the official sighting, Pakistan’s national space agency SUPARCO (Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission) had already issued a scientific forecast for the Zilhaj crescent.
According to SUPARCO:
- The new moon of Zilhaj 1447 AH was born on May 17 at 1:01 AM
- At sunset on May 17, the moon’s age would be approximately 18 hours and 30 minutes
- The interval between sunset and moonset along Pakistan’s coastal belt was estimated at around 60 minutes
SUPARCO concluded that these astronomical conditions were highly favorable for crescent visibility, subject to clear weather near the horizon. The Ruet-i-Hilal Committee’s announcement ultimately confirmed SUPARCO’s prediction, showing a successful alignment between scientific forecasting and traditional moon sighting.
Key Dates at a Glance
| Event | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| New Moon Born | May 17, 2026 | Saturday |
| 1st Zilhaj 1447 AH | May 18, 2026 | Monday |
| Eid ul Azha 2026 | May 27, 2026 | Wednesday |
The Significance of Eid ul Azha
Eid ul Azha is one of the two major Islamic festivals celebrated by Muslims worldwide. It commemorates the great sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who demonstrated unwavering devotion to Allah’s command. On this occasion, Muslims who are financially able perform Qurbani (animal sacrifice) and distribute the meat among family, neighbors, and those in need.
In Pakistan, Eid ul Azha is celebrated with immense enthusiasm — from the lively cattle markets that pop up weeks in advance to the early morning Eid prayers, family gatherings, and the spirit of generosity that fills every neighborhood.
Stay Updated with Pak Net
Pak Net is your trusted digital platform for breaking news, religious updates, and everything happening across Pakistan. Whether it’s moon sighting announcements, government notices, or important national events — Pak Net keeps you informed, fast and accurately.