The federal government has officially announced three public holidays for Eid ul Adha 2026 across Pakistan. According to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division, citizens will enjoy holidays from May 26 to May 28, covering Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
The announcement came shortly after the Central Ruet i Hilal Committee confirmed the sighting of the Zilhaj moon, declaring that Eid ul Adha would be observed on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. The meeting for moon sighting was held at the Pakistan Meteorological Department in Karachi under the chairmanship of Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad.
During a press conference, the Ruet committee chairman stated that credible moon sighting testimonies were received from multiple cities across the country. Based on unanimous agreement, the committee declared May 18 as the first day of Zilhaj.
The Eid holidays are expected to provide families across Pakistan an opportunity to celebrate the religious festival with prayers, gatherings, and traditional activities. Markets and cattle bazaars are already witnessing increased activity as people prepare to purchase sacrificial animals ahead of the occasion.
Eid ul Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates the devotion and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was willing to sacrifice his son on the command of Allah. According to Islamic teachings, Allah replaced the sacrifice with a ram, making it a symbol of faith, patience, and submission.
Muslims around the world observe the festival by offering Eid prayers and sacrificing animals such as goats, cows, and camels. The meat is then distributed among relatives, friends, and underprivileged families to ensure that everyone can share in the celebrations.
The government’s holiday announcement is expected to boost travel, shopping, and livestock markets across the country as millions prepare for one of the biggest Islamic festivals of the year.
