World
Dhu Al-Hijjah to begin May 18 as Saudi Arabia and UAE set to announce moon-sighting decision
By Imad al-Din Ibrahim Published: 2026-05-17T18:42:00+04:00 1 min read
As these announcements were made in Southeast Asia, attention has shifted to the Arabian Gulf, where Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have yet to confirm their moon-sighting decisions.
Jakarta: Indonesia and Malaysia have officially announced that Monday, May 18, 2026, will mark the first day of Dhu Al-Hijjah 1447 AH, confirming that Eid Al-Adha will be observed on Wednesday, May 27.
Malaysia’s national news agency Bernama quoted a senior official responsible for crescent moon sightings and religious matters as confirming that Muslims in the country will celebrate Eid Al-Adha on May 27.
In Indonesia, official media reported that the Ministry of Religious Affairs approved the start of Dhu Al-Hijjah based on crescent moon observations and astronomical and Sharia assessments, setting May 18 as the first day of the month and May 27 as Eid Al-Adha.
As these announcements were made in Southeast Asia, attention has shifted to the Arabian Gulf, where Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have yet to confirm their moon-sighting decisions.
Saudi Arabia’s announcement holds particular significance across the Islamic world, as it determines the timing of the Hajj rituals and the Day of Arafat, which directly influence the date of Eid Al-Adha observed by Muslims globally.
Astronomical estimates in the region suggest a high likelihood of alignment between calculations and physical sightings. Authorities in both Saudi Arabia and the UAE are expected to issue official statements soon confirming the start of Dhu Al-Hijjah and the dates for Hajj and Eid Al-Adha.