Sharjah Astronomers Forecast Eid Al Adha 2026 Date

The Sharjah Space and Astronomy Hub (SSAH) at the University of Sharjah has released its latest astronomical calculations predicting the dates for the upcoming Islamic holy month of Dhu al-Hijja and the subsequent Eid Al Adha festival in 2026. According to the center's technical report, Wednesday, May 27, 2026, is projected to be the first day of Eid Al Adha.

The forecast is based on detailed observations of the lunar cycle for the year 1447 AH. The center anticipates that the first day of Dhu al-Hijja will be Monday, May 18, 2026. Consequently, the Day of Arafat, which falls on the ninth day of the month, is expected to be observed on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.

The report highlights specific astronomical data supporting these projections. The lunar conjunction is calculated to occur at 12:17 a.m. on Sunday, May 17, 2026 (UAE time), corresponding to the 29th of Dhu al-Qa'da. By sunset on that day, the new crescent moon is expected to be approximately 18 hours and 39 minutes old. The center estimates a visibility window of 57 minutes above the horizon, a duration deemed sufficient for unaided sighting under favorable atmospheric conditions.

Professor Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy, Director of the Sharjah Space and Astronomy Hub, confirmed that these scientific findings have been formally submitted to the UAE Fatwa Council. The submission aims to assist religious authorities in making informed rulings by combining astronomical data with Islamic jurisprudence.

Despite the precise calculations, the SSAH emphasized in its closing statement that the data is intended for scientific and astronomical reference only. The official declaration of the start of Hijri months and religious holidays remains the exclusive authority of the UAE's designated official and religious bodies, who will make the final determination based on actual moon sightings.