Hajj 1447 AH & Eid Al Adha 2026: Your Essential Guide to the Sacred Timeline and Global Celebrations

The official itinerary for Hajj 1447 AH is scheduled to commence on the evening of Monday, May 25. This marks the beginning of an intense period of devotion, culminating in the monumental gathering on the plains of Arafat and cascading into the global celebration of Eid Al Adha, which is expected to begin on Wednesday, May 27.

Core Rites: The Spiritual Journey Unfolds

The pilgrimage encompasses a series of profound rituals, each carrying immense spiritual weight and historical significance.

The Valley of Mina: A Gathering of Equality

The initial phase sees pilgrims gathering in the vast tent city of Mina. Here, clad in simple white sheets of Ihram, millions stand in complete equality, shedding worldly distinctions to focus solely on their devotion. This initial assembly signals the beginning of the intense spiritual journey ahead.

The Stand at Arafat: A Day of Mercy and Forgiveness

Central to the Hajj is the Stand at Arafat, scheduled for Tuesday, May 26. This is widely regarded as the definitive day of the pilgrimage, a time when millions of pilgrims gather from dawn until sunset on the plain of Arafat, standing before the Almighty in prayer and supplication, seeking mercy and forgiveness. It's a truly humbling and transformative experience.

Muzdalifah and Mina Return: Rejecting Temptation

Following the emotional day at Arafat, pilgrims proceed to Muzdalifah, an open plain where they collect pebbles under the desert sky. These stones are then used in the symbolic ritual of 'stoning the devil' (Ramy al-Jamarat) back in Mina, representing the structural rejection of temptation and evil.

Global Echoes: Eid Al Adha and Qurbani Dynamics

While pilgrims are immersed in their rituals within the Masha'er, the global Muslim community simultaneously celebrates Eid Al Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice. This worldwide celebration is set to begin on Wednesday, May 27, marking a period of communal prayer, family gatherings, and charitable acts.

A critical aspect of Eid Al Adha is the Qurbani, or sacrificial offering. The window for performing Qurbani opens directly after the local Eid prayer on May 27. This significant act of worship remains valid throughout the three subsequent Days of Tashreeq.

The final legal boundary for completing individual or automated group sacrifices closes right as the sun sets on Saturday, May 30, which corresponds to the 13th day of Dhul Hijjah. This provides a clear timeframe for Muslims worldwide to fulfill their religious obligation.

Stay tuned to GulfWire News for the latest developments and comprehensive coverage of this significant global event.