Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court declared on Sunday that Monday, May 18, 2026, marks the beginning of the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah, the 12th and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the court’s announcement confirms that pilgrims performing Hajj will stand at Arafat on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 (Dhul-Hijjah 9), while Eid al-Adha will begin the following day on Wednesday, May 27, 2026 (Dhul-Hijjah 10).
The Day of Arafat represents the spiritual pinnacle of the Hajj pilgrimage. Millions of Muslims gather on the plain of Mount Arafat near Mecca for a full day of prayer, supplication, and reflection, an act considered essential for the pilgrimage’s validity.
Eid al-Adha, known as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham’s) willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail in obedience to God.
According to Islamic tradition, God intervened and provided a ram as a substitute. The holiday is observed with communal prayers, the ritual slaughter of livestock, and the distribution of meat to relatives, friends, and those in need, emphasizing themes of faith, charity, and compassion.
Hajj 2026 Preparations
The announcement comes as Saudi authorities ramp up preparations for the 2026 Hajj season. Officials have rolled out extensive operational plans focused on crowd management, transportation, health services, security, and infrastructure improvements around the holy sites in Mecca and Medina.
Significant investments in recent years have expanded facilities at the Grand Mosque, enhanced transit systems between Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah, and introduced better digital support for pilgrims. Heat mitigation strategies and medical readiness remain key priorities given the timing of this year’s rituals in late May.
