Muslims across Pakistan are preparing to observe the sacred night of Shab e Meraj 2026 following the sighting of the Rajab moon on Sunday.
The Central Ruet e Hilal Committee confirmed the moon sighting after a meeting held on Sunday night under the chairmanship of Maulana Muhammad Abdul Khabeer Azad. Zonal and district Ruet e Hilal committees also met at different locations across the country to verify reports of the moon sighting.
According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the committee officially announced the start of Rajab, the seventh month of the Islamic calendar.
Shab e Meraj, observed on the 27th night of Rajab, marks the miraculous night journey of Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him.
Islamic tradition states that the Prophet was taken from the Holy Kaaba in Makkah to Masjid al Aqsa in Jerusalem, where he led prayers, before ascending to the heavens on the celestial mount Al Buraq and receiving divine commandments.
The word “Meraj” comes from the Arabic term Urooj, which means ascension. The event holds great importance in Islamic history as a symbol of spiritual elevation and closeness to Allah.
Muslims observe this night with devotion through special prayers, recitation of the Quran, and voluntary fasting.
According to the official announcement, Shab e Meraj will be observed across Pakistan on the night of January 16, 2026.