Eid ul Adha is expected to be observed on June 7 in Pakistan, as there is little to no chance of the Zil Hajj moon being sighted on May 27, based on astronomical data.
Astronomer Dr Faheem Hashmi explained that the new moon will be just 11 hours old at sunset on May 27, making it highly unlikely to be visible that evening.
However, he added that the crescent is expected to be seen on May 28, when the moon will be over 35 hours old, increasing the chances of visibility. This would mark May 29 as the first day of Zil Hajj and make June 7 the likely date for Eid ul Adha.
In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Eid ul Adha is anticipated to fall on June 6, as shared by the Emirates Astronomy Society.
According to Gulf News, the crescent moon marking the beginning of Dhu al Hijjah is expected to be visible on May 27. This would make May 28 the first day of the Islamic month.
Ibrahim Al Jarwan, chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Society, stated that the crescent will be born at 07:02 am UAE time on May 27 and should remain visible for about 38 minutes after sunset, making its sighting likely that evening.
Eid ul Adha, also known as the “Feast of Sacrifice,” commemorates the story of Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion to God, where he was prepared to sacrifice his son. The act was divinely halted and replaced with the offering of a ram instead.
The festival is marked by prayers, gatherings with loved ones, and acts of charity, including the sacrifice of animals, with the meat shared among family, friends, and those in need.