When are Hajj and Eid al-Adha 2026? A visual guide to the Muslim pilgrimage

Introduction

The year 2026 will see millions of Muslims around the world preparing for two of the most important events in the Islamic calendar: Hajj and Eid al-Adha. These sacred occasions are deeply connected, with Eid al-Adha marking the conclusion of the Hajj pilgrimage in Makkah.

According to calendar estimates, both events fall in late May 2026, depending on the sighting of the moon that determines the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah.

📅 Hajj 2026 Dates

Hajj is expected to begin in late May 2026, with slight variations depending on lunar sighting.

• Expected start of Hajj: Around 25 May 2026
• Day of Arafah (most important day): Around 26 May 2026
• End of Hajj rituals: Around 30 May 2026

Hajj takes place in the 12th Islamic month (Dhul Hijjah) and includes a series of rituals performed over several days in and around Makkah.

🌙 Eid al-Adha 2026 Dates

Eid al-Adha begins immediately after the Day of Arafah.

• Expected start of Eid al-Adha: 26–27 May 2026
• Main Eid day: 27 May 2026 (expected)
• Duration: 3–4 days in most regions

Eid al-Adha is celebrated worldwide and marks the completion of Hajj rituals.

🕋 What is Hajj?

Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam and a mandatory pilgrimage for Muslims who are physically and financially able to perform it at least once in their lifetime.

Key rituals include:

• Ihram (spiritual state of purity)
• Tawaf (circling the Kaaba)
• Sa’i (walking between Safa and Marwah)
• Standing at Arafah
• Stoning of the Jamarat

Each ritual symbolizes faith, unity, and devotion.

🐑 What is Eid al-Adha?

Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates the story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his willingness to sacrifice for God.

It is marked by:

• Eid prayers
• Animal sacrifice (Qurbani)
• Sharing meat with family and the needy
• Charity and community gatherings

🌍 Why these dates change every year

Both Hajj and Eid al-Adha follow the Islamic lunar calendar, which is shorter than the Gregorian calendar.

This means:

• Islamic dates shift about 10–12 days earlier each year
• Exact dates depend on moon sighting in Saudi Arabia
• Final confirmation is announced officially by authorities

📌 Conclusion

Hajj and Eid al-Adha 2026 are expected to fall in late May, bringing millions of pilgrims to Makkah and uniting Muslims worldwide in celebration and worship. While exact dates may vary slightly, the spiritual significance remains constant across generations.

FAQs

1. When does Hajj 2026 start?

It is expected to begin around 25 May 2026, depending on moon sighting.

2. When is Eid al-Adha 2026?

It is expected on 26–27 May 2026, with the main celebration on 27 May.

3. How long does Hajj last?

Hajj rituals last around 5–6 days.

4. Why does the date change every year?

Because it follows the Islamic lunar calendar, which is shorter than the solar calendar.

5. Is Eid al-Adha linked to Hajj?

Yes, Eid al-Adha marks the completion of Hajj rituals.