Eid-ul-Azha 2026: will Pakistan get a long weekend?

The expected dates for Eid al-Adha in Pakistan for 2026 will ultimately depend on the sighting of the moon marking the beginning of Dhu’l-Hijjah (Zil Hajj).

Early forecasts suggest that if the crescent is sighted on May 17, the new month would begin on May 18, placing Eid celebrations between May 27 and 29. However, if the moon is not visible and the preceding month completes its full 30 days, Eid is likely to shift by a day, falling between May 28 and 30.

The current lunar month, Dhul-Qaida, began on April 19. The official moon-sighting session by Pakistan’s Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is expected around May 17, when authorities will determine the confirmed start of Dhul-Hijjah.

Based on tentative projections, public holidays for Eid are expected to fall from May 27 to 29. If these dates align with the weekend, many people across the country could enjoy an extended break of up to five days. A one-day shift in moon sighting could also move holidays to May 28-30, potentially creating another long weekend.

Officials noted that final dates will only be confirmed after the official moon-sighting announcement.