Eid Al Adha 2026 confirmed in Turkiye and Tunisia; UAE, Saudi Arabia and other nations await moon sighting
Dhu Al Hijjah moon observation process continues across several Islamic nations
DUBAI – Tunisia and Turkiye have officially announced the beginning of Dhu Al Hijjah, becoming among the first countries to confirm dates for Eid Al Adha 2026.
The announcements came after the crescent moon marking the start of the Islamic month was confirmed, setting the religious calendar in motion ahead of one of the most significant celebrations in Islam.
The declarations have now shifted attention to countries across the Gulf and South Asia, where moon-sighting committees are expected to issue their own decisions later today.
Eid Al Adha announcements
Tunisia became the first country to officially confirm the start of Dhu Al Hijjah after declaring Saturday, May 16, as the 29th day of Dhu Al Qadah. Authorities announced that Monday, May 18, would mark the first day of Dhu Al Hijjah, placing Eid Al Adha on Wednesday, May 27.
Soon after, Turkiye confirmed the same timeline. Unlike many Islamic nations that rely on physical moon observation, Turkiye follows a pre-calculated Islamic calendar based on astronomical calculations and projected moon visibility. Under that system, Monday, May 18, was already established as the start of the month, with Eid Al Adha also set for May 27.
Holiday plans
Separately, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan announced an extended holiday period surrounding Qurban Bayram, the Turkish name for Eid Al Adha. Speaking after a Cabinet meeting in Ankara, Erdoğan said public sector employees would receive additional administrative leave, creating a continuous nine-day break.
Eid Al Adha in Turkiye will be observed from May 27 to May 30. Under the arrangement, public employees will begin their holidays on the afternoon of May 26, with extra leave covering Monday and part of Tuesday. The extended break is expected to support family travel and domestic tourism activity during the festive period.
UAE, Saudi Arabia awaiting decisions
Meanwhile, attention remains focused on the Gulf region and South Asia. In Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Oman, authorities have designated Sunday, May 17, for Dhu Al Hijjah crescent observation, with official announcements expected after moon-sighting sessions conclude.
The anticipated decisions are particularly significant because Saudi Arabia’s declaration often shapes Eid timelines across many countries. India and Pakistan are also expected to make announcements later today after local moon observations and consultations with religious committees.
As moon-sighting centres and astronomical authorities continue observations across different regions, millions are awaiting confirmation that will determine the beginning of Dhu Al Hijjah and the dates for Eid Al Adha celebrations.