Summary (Key Points)
Dhul Hijjah 2026 is expected to begin on Monday, 18th May 2026.
Eid al-Adha is likely to fall on Wednesday, 27th May 2026, depending on moon sighting.
Dhul Hijjah is the 12th month in the Islamic (Hijri) calendar.
The first 10 days are among the most sacred in Islam.
Muslims fast, give charity, and perform Qurbani (Udhiyah) during this time.
The Hajj pilgrimage takes place in this month.
Dhul Hijjah ends with Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice.
Introduction: What is Dhul Hijjah?
Dhul Hijjah is the 12th and final month of the Islamic calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar. It is one of the most important months for Muslims around the world. The name “Dhul Hijjah” literally means “the month of pilgrimage,” as the Hajj—the fifth pillar of Islam—takes place during this month.
Muslims consider Dhul Hijjah a sacred time. Many significant religious events occur during these days, culminating in the major Islamic holiday, Eid al-Adha. This month is a dedicated time for worship, prayer, fasting, and acts of kindness toward the poor.
When is Dhul Hijjah 2026?
If you are wondering when Dhul Hijjah 2026 begins, the expected date is Monday, 18th May 2026. Please note that this is not set in stone, as Islamic months begin with the confirmed sighting of the new crescent moon.
The Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, meaning the dates shift approximately 10 to 11 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar. Dhul Hijjah 2026 corresponds with the year 1447 AH in the Hijri calendar. The actual start date may vary slightly depending on your geographical location and local moon-sighting reports.
Many countries utilize a combination of astronomical calculations and traditional moon-sighting to confirm the official beginning of the month.
Key Dates in Dhul Hijjah 2026
Mark your calendars for these important dates in Dhul Hijjah 2026 (1447 AH):
Monday, 18 May – Dhul Hijjah begins (Day 1)
Monday, 25 May – Start of Hajj (Day 8)
Tuesday, 26 May – Day of Arafah (Day 9, highly recommended for fasting)
Wednesday, 27 May – Eid al-Adha (Day 10)
Note: These dates are subject to the sighting of the moon. Always check with your local mosque or Islamic authority for the official announcement in your area.
The Importance of Moon Sighting
In Islam, the beginning of each month is marked by the sighting of the new moon. This includes Dhul Hijjah. Moon sighting is a tradition that goes back to the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It is a way for Muslims to stay connected to nature and follow the lunar cycle.
The moon is not always visible at the same time in every country. That is why Dhul Hijjah can begin on different days in different places. Some Muslim communities also use astronomical calculations along with moon sighting to make sure the date is accurate.
Why Dhul Hijjah is Spiritually Important
Dhul Hijjah is a time of great spiritual reward. The first 10 days are the most special. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said that no days are better for doing good deeds than these ten days. Allah loves acts of kindness, prayer, and fasting done in this period.
It was during this month that the Prophet gave his farewell sermon. Also, a verse from the Qur’an was revealed where Allah said the religion had been completed. This gives Dhul Hijjah a deep historical and religious meaning.
Good Deeds During Dhul Hijjah
Muslims are encouraged to do many good deeds during Dhul Hijjah. These include:
- Praying more and reading the Qur’an
- Helping the poor and giving charity
- Fasting the first 9 days, especially the Day of Arafah
- Doing dhikr – saying phrases that remember Allah
Even small actions done with a pure heart are very valuable in these sacred days. It is also a time for self-reflection, kindness, and becoming closer to Allah.
Fasting in the First 9 Days
One of the best actions during Dhul Hijjah is fasting, especially in the first 9 days. The Day of Arafah, which is the 9th day, is highly recommended for fasting. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said that fasting on this day can forgive the sins of the past and coming year.
Fasting shows dedication and brings a person closer to Allah. It is an easy but powerful way to gain blessings during these holy days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dhul Hijjah 2025 is expected to begin on Wednesday, 28th 18 May 2026, but this depends on the sighting of the new moon.
The first 10 days are among the most sacred in Islam. Good deeds done in this time are highly rewarded by Allah, including fasting, prayer, charity, and dhikr.
Hajj, the pilgrimage to Mecca, takes place during Dhul Hijjah. It is one of the five pillars of Islam and a religious duty for Muslims who can afford to do it.
Qurbani is the act of sacrificing an animal in memory of Prophet Ibrahim’s test of faith. It is recommended for Muslims who can afford it during Eid al Adha.
Muslims in Europe attend Eid prayers, perform Qurbani, and celebrate with family and friends. They also share food and donate to the poor to honor the values of sacrifice and generosity.
