The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission has said the moon for Zilhajj 1447 AH is expected to be visible on the evening of May 17, 2026, making May 18 the likely first day of the Islamic month and May 27 the expected date of Eid ul Azha in Pakistan.
According to SUPARCO, the new moon is expected to be born on May 17 at 1:01 a.m. Pakistan Standard Time.
At sunset on the same day, the moon will be around 18 hours and 30 minutes old, while the gap between sunset and moonset along Pakistan’s coastal belt is expected to be about 60 minutes.
Based on these astronomical calculations, SUPARCO said the chances of sighting the Zilhajj crescent on the evening of May 17 are favorable, subject to clear weather conditions and visibility near the horizon.
If the moon is sighted as expected, the first of Zilhajj will fall on Monday, May 18, 2026, while Eid ul Azha will likely be observed on Wednesday, May 27, 2026.
SUPARCO noted, however, that the final decision on moon sighting and the start of Zilhajj will be made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, which is the authorized body to announce the beginning of Islamic months based on verified observations and credible witness testimonies from across the country.
