The Ruet-e-Hilal Research Council has indicated that Eid ul Adha in Pakistan is likely to be observed on Wednesday, May 27, based on scientific calculations related to the lunar calendar.
According to the council’s Secretary General Khalid Ijaz Mufti, astronomical data suggests a strong possibility that the Islamic festival of Eid ul Adha will fall on May 27 this year. He explained that the birth of the new moon is expected to occur during the night of May 16 and 17 at 1:15 AM Pakistan Standard Time.
He further stated that by the evening of May 17, the age of the moon at sunset will be slightly more than 18 hours in most parts of Pakistan, which is generally considered suitable for the sighting of the crescent moon under traditional criteria.
However, the final decision will depend on weather conditions. If cloudy skies prevent moon sighting on the evening of May 17, then the month of Dhul Qadah will complete 30 days, and the first day of Dhul Hijjah will fall on May 19 (Tuesday). In such a case, Eid ul Adha would still likely be observed on May 27.
The council also noted the possibility that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia may observe Eid ul Adha on the same day this year, aligning religious celebrations across both countries. This synchronization is often welcomed by pilgrims and the wider Muslim community due to its religious and logistical significance.
The announcement comes as preparations for Eid ul Adha begin across the country, with livestock markets, transportation arrangements, and security planning already underway in anticipation of the festival.
Eid ul Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is one of the most significant religious celebrations in the Islamic calendar, marking the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice in obedience to God.
Final confirmation of the date will depend on official moon sighting announcements by the central moon sighting committee closer to the expected date.
