Pakistanis likely to get six holidays on Eid-ul-Adha

The possible dates for the start of the Eid-ul-Adha holidays in Pakistan have been revealed; however, the final announcement will be made by the government.

It is likely that Pakistan will celebrate Eid-ul-Adha on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, though the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will make the final decision after moon sighting. If Eid is declared on May 27, the government usually begins official holidays from the previous day, Tuesday, May 26, and continues them through Friday, May 29. As a result, combining these official holidays with the weekend can give many government and private employees six consecutive days off.

Pakistan’s national space agency, Suparco, has released updated astronomical calculations for the new moon of Dhul Hijjah 1447 AH. According to Suparco, the new moon will appear on May 17, 2026, at 1:01 AM Pakistan time. At sunset on that day, the moon’s age will be about 18 hours and 30 minutes, a key factor used for sighting. Suparco also reports a 60-minute gap between sunset and moonset in coastal areas, which increases the chance of sighting the crescent if skies remain clear.

Local moon-sighting teams and religious authorities will observe the sky after sunset to confirm the crescent. If the crescent is seen, the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will announce the start of Dhul Hijjah and set the date for Eid-ul-Adha. Officials advise people to follow announcements from the committee and local authorities for confirmed dates.

Citizens planning travel or family gatherings are advised to wait for the official declaration before finalizing arrangements. Many businesses and public offices will release formal notices once the committee confirms the moon sighting. Meanwhile, meteorological forecasts will play an important role because clear weather improves the likelihood of sighting the crescent.