When is Dhul Hijjah 2026?
Officially confirmed to begin Monday, May 18, 2026 in Saudi Arabia.
When is Dhul Hijjah 2026 in Saudi Arabia? Following the official announcements by the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia on the evening of May 17, the sacred crescent moon has been successfully sighted. Consequently, the month of Dhul Hijjah officially begins on Monday, May 18, 2026. This signals the arrival of the blessed first ten days of Dhul Hijjah, renowned as the most spiritually valuable segment of the Islamic calendar year. The tracking system administered by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has fully locked the ritual calendar milestones into place.
Official Confirmed Start in Saudi Arabia
Monday, May 18, 2026
1st Dhul Hijjah 1447 AH • Verified by Supreme Court Moon Sighting
Official Hajj & Eid Schedule 2026
| Hijri Date | Gregorian Date (Confirmed) | Significant Event |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Dhul Hijjah | May 18, 2026 | Fasting Begins |
| 8 Dhul Hijjah | May 25, 2026 | Hajj Rituals Begin |
| 9 Dhul Hijjah | May 26, 2026 | Day of Arafah (Hajj Peak) |
| 10 Dhul Hijjah | May 27, 2026 | Eid al-Adha |
Hajj 2026: Steps & Guidance
Hajj is a spiritual journey required once in a lifetime for those physically and financially able. For detailed logistics on visas and permits, pilgrims should consult the Nusuk Platform (Official Saudi Portal).
Key rituals include the Tawaf around the Kaaba, Sa'i between Safa and Marwa, and the pivotal stay at the plains of Arafat. For a complete spiritual preparation, read our Step-by-Step Hajj Guide.
Qurbani (Udhiyah) 2026
The sacrifice follows the Eid prayer on May 27th. Ensure your sacrifice is performed according to Shariah rules regarding animal health and age.
Recommended Deeds in Dhul Hijjah
Tahlil, Takbir & Tahmid
Reciting SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, La ilaha illa Allah, and Allahu Akbar frequently. Learn more about recommended dhikr.
Fasting the 9 Days
Fasting the first nine days, especially the Day of Arafah, is a Sunnah that expiates sins. Check rewards of fasting Arafah.
Increased Charity
Charity given during these days is more rewarding than at any other time. See Muslim Aid Dhul Hijjah Appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Dhul Hijjah important?
It is the month of Hajj and contains the "Ten Best Days" of the year. Allah swears by these nights in the Quran (Surah Al-Fajr). For more context, visit our Significance Article.
Is Eid al-Adha 2026 confirmed for the same day globally?
Because the crescent moon was sighted comprehensively on May 17, major bodies globally—including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Pakistan, and parts of the West—have aligned their tracking. Minor variations may exist for regions utilizing exclusive strict local visual confirmation guidelines. Check the Wifaqul Ulama UK Moon Sighting for localized verification updates.