Saudi Arabia announces Eid al-Adha date

Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court announced on Sunday that Monday, May 18, 2026, will mark the start of Dhul-Hijjah.

According to a report by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the court said that pilgrims performing Hajj will stand at Arafat on Tuesday, May 26, corresponding to Dhul-Hijjah 9, while Eid al-Adha will begin the following day on Wednesday, May 27.

The Day of Arafat is considered the pinnacle of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, during which millions of Muslims gather at Mount Arafat near the holy city of Mecca for prayer and reflection.

Eid al-Adha, one of the most important holidays in Islam, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God before God provided a ram to sacrifice instead, according to Islamic tradition.

The holiday is marked by communal prayers, family gatherings, and the ritual sacrifice of livestock, with meat traditionally distributed among relatives, friends, and those in need.

The announcement comes as Saudi Arabia continues preparations for the 2026 Hajj season, with authorities rolling out extensive operational plans to manage crowds and facilitate the movement of pilgrims arriving from around the world.