With Muslims across the globe preparing for Eid Al-Adha 2026, attention is turning to the skies as communities wait for confirmation of the Dhul Hijjah moon sighting.
Known as the “festival of sacrifice”, Eid Al-Adha celebrations are marked with special prayers, family gatherings, charity and the traditional Qurbani sacrifice – where meat is shared with relatives, friends and those in need.
The timing of the major Islamic festival depends on whether the crescent moon is seen, with Saudi Arabia expected to announce key dates first before many UK mosques follow suit.
Depending on the sighting of the moon, Dhul Hijjah could begin on Monday, May 18, meaning Eid – which comes 10 days later – could fall on May 27. Experts say the crescent moon may be difficult to spot with the naked eye in parts of the UK, but telescopes and clear skies may improve visibility.
New UpdatesView PostToday22:06 BST
Muslims celebrate Eid Al-Adha by taking part in special prayers, giving to charity and the traditional Qurbani sacrifice – where meat is shared with relatives, friends and those in need.
The day usually involves sharing a meal and spending time with loved ones.
Eid al-Adha coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage and commemorates sacrifice. It differs from Eid Al-Fitr, which marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan.
Muslims typically spend the day sharing a meal with loved ones
Eid dates can vary depending on where you are because different countries and Islamic authorities use different methods to determine the start of the lunar month.
Some rely strictly on physical moon sightings, while others use astronomical calculations to predict when the crescent should be visible.
This means Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Pakistan, Morocco and the UK can sometimes announce the beginning of Dhu al-Hijjah on different days.
Zahra KhaliqToday21:52 BST
Some Muslims in the UK follow moon sightings announced by Saudi Arabia, while others might rely on local sightings.
Weather conditions can affect whether the crescent is seen in Britain, meaning communities can sometimes begin Islamic months on different dates.
Experts say the crescent moon may be difficult to spot with the naked eye in parts of the UK on May 17, but telescopes and clear skies may improve visibility.
Mosques and Islamic organisations across Britain are expected to issue guidance closer to the expected sighting date.