When will Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha be announced in UAE?
Advanced observatories across Emirates prepare for nationwide crescent observation
DUBAI – The UAE’s moon-sighting authorities will observe the crescent marking the beginning of Dhul Hijjah on the evening of May 17, a key development that will determine the official dates for Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha in 2026.
The announcement was made by the UAE Council for Fatwa, which confirmed that observations would be conducted in coordination with observatories and astronomy centres across the country using advanced technologies and modern methods.
Dhul Hijjah is regarded as one of the holiest months in the Islamic calendar, as it includes the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Makkah and the celebration of Eid Al Adha. The first ten days of the month are considered especially significant for worship and religious devotion among Muslims worldwide.
Moon sighting
According to the council, the crescent observation will take place through multiple specialised centres, including Al Khatm Astronomical Observatory in cooperation with the International Astronomy Centre, Dubai Sky Views Observatory in partnership with Dubai’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, and Sharjah Astronomical Observatory alongside the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology.
If the crescent is sighted on May 17, Dhul Hijjah will begin on Monday, May 18. If visibility is not confirmed, Dhu Al Qadah will complete 30 days and the new Islamic month will begin on May 19 instead. The moon sighting will officially determine the dates for Arafat Day, observed on the ninth day of Dhul Hijjah, and Eid Al Adha on the tenth day.
Eid holiday
Astronomical predictions by the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology indicate that the first day of Eid Al Adha is expected to fall on May 27. However, the final confirmation depends entirely on the official moon sighting process.
The expected dates have already sparked anticipation among residents planning for the Eid break. The UAE government earlier announced that public sector employees would receive holidays from May 25 to May 29. Combined with the weekends, many employees could enjoy a nine-day break.
The Ministry of Education also confirmed that students, teachers and administrative staff would receive a mid-term and Eid break during the same period.