Key Takeaways
- Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court has called on Muslims across the Kingdom to sight the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon on the evening of Sunday, 17 May 2026
- Anyone who spots the moon — with the naked eye or binoculars — must report to their nearest court or contact the nearest centre for assistance
- If the crescent is sighted, Dhul Hijjah will begin on Monday, 18 May 2026, setting the dates for Arafah Day and Eid Al-Adha
Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court has called on Muslims throughout the Kingdom to look for the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon on the evening of Sunday, 17 May 2026, corresponding to the 29th of Dhul Qadah 1447H.
If the crescent is spotted on 17 May, Dhul Hijjah will begin on Monday, 18 May. Arafah Day — the central day of Hajj 2026 — would then fall on Tuesday, 26 May, and Eid Al-Adha would follow on Wednesday, 27 May.
If the moon is not sighted on Sunday, Dhul Qadah will be counted as 30 days, and Dhul Hijjah will begin on Monday, 19 May. In that case, Arafah Day would fall on Wednesday, 27 May, and Eid Al-Adha on Thursday, 28 May.
The Supreme Court has asked anyone who sees the crescent moon — whether with the naked eye or through binoculars — to notify the nearest court and formally register their testimony.
Those who need assistance reaching a court are asked to contact the nearest centre, which will help them get there.
