When is Eid al Adha 2026? Worldwide Sighting & News
Eid al-Adha (commonly referred to as Bakra Eid) was celebrated worldwide between May 27 and May 28, 2026. Because the Islamic calendar relies on lunar cycles, the official date varies across different countries based on geographical factors and local moon-sighting protocols.
The Global Eid Split
Following the official announcement by the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia, the crescent moon for Dhul Hijjah was verified, locking in the Day of Arafah for Tuesday, May 26, and the primary day of celebration for Wednesday, May 27, 2026. More than 28 Arab and Islamic nations—including the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Egypt, Turkey, and Jordan—along with primary Muslim communities in the United Kingdom, United States, Europe, and Australia, celebrated on this day.
In contrast, religious authorities in countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, South Africa, and Brunei announced that the Dhul Hijjah crescent was not visible on the same night. For these regions, the month started a day later, making Thursday, May 28, 2026 their official celebration day. Government calendars, central bank holidays, and local stock markets across South Asia adjusted their official days off to Thursday accordingly.
Saudi Arabia, UAE, Middle East, USA, UK, Europe, Australia
India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, South Africa, Indonesia, Malaysia
What is Eid al Adha?
Eid al Adha, or the "Festival of Sacrifice," is one of the most significant Islamic holidays, commemorating the profound act of faith by Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.). According to Islamic tradition, Prophet Ibrahim was prepared to sacrifice his son, Prophet Ismail (A.S.), to obey Allah’s command. However, Allah replaced Ismail with a ram, signifying His mercy and approval of Ibrahim's devotion (Quran 37:102).
Muslims worldwide honor this momentous event by sacrificing an animal, such as a sheep, goat, or camel, on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah. The act symbolizes devotion, humility, and submission to the Divine will.
"Allah has given you better than those feasts (festivals of non-believers): the Eid-ul-Adha and Eid-ul-Fitr."
— Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.), An-Nasai: 1556
The Ritual of Eid Prayer and Sunnahs
Following the Sunnah of the Prophet (S.A.W.) enhances the blessings of the day. The Eid prayer is a communal obligation that brings the Ummah together in gratitude.
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Performing Ghusl (ritual bath) before heading out to pray.
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Dressing in the cleanest or newest attire available.
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Reciting the continuous Takbir out loud along the walking trails.
"Allaahu akbar, Allaahu akbar, laa ilaaha ill-Allaah, wa Allaahu akbar, Allaahu akbar, wa Lillaah il-hamd."
The Eid prayer consists of two Rak'at (units) followed by a Khutbah (sermon). It is Sunnah to stay and listen to the sermon after the prayer is completed.
The Act of Qurbani (Animal Sacrifice)
Qurbani is an act of worship performed from the 10th to the 13th of Dhul Hijjah. It is a time for sharing and ensuring no one in the community goes hungry.
After Eid prayer on the 10th until sunset on the 13th day of Dhul Hijjah.
Healthy livestock including domestic sheep, goats, cattle, or camels.
One third for household, one third for relatives, one third for marginalized communities.
Sheep: 6 months; Goats: 1 year; Cattle: 2 years; Camels: 5 years.
Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) emphasized the obligation: "Whoever can afford it [sacrifice], but does not offer a sacrifice, let him not come near our prayer place."
— Ibn Majah: 3123
Eid al Adha 2026 is a time of reflection, gratitude, and devotion. It celebrates the values of sacrifice and submission to Allah, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.). Beyond the ritual, it is an opportunity to spread joy and share blessings with humanity.
May Allah accept our sacrifices and good deeds. Eid Mubarak!
