
When Is Eid Ul Adha 2025 – Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, UK Dates
Eid ul-Adha 2025 is expected to fall on June 6 in Saudi Arabia and countries following the Saudi moon sighting, with regional variations across Pakistan, the UK, and other nations. The exact date depends on the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon sighting, which authorities in Saudi Arabia are scheduled to attempt on May 27, 2025. This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of projected dates, regional observances, and what you need to know for planning purposes.
The festival, also known as Eid al-Adha, marks the conclusion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage and commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. As one of the two major Islamic festivals, its timing shifts annually on the Gregorian calendar, advancing approximately 11 days earlier each year.
When is Eid ul Adha 2025?
The anticipated date for Eid ul-Adha 2025 in Saudi Arabia is June 6, 2025, corresponding to the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah 1446H. This projection follows the Saudi Supreme Court’s scheduled crescent sighting attempt on May 27, 2025. If the crescent is sighted on that date, Dhul Hijjah begins on May 28, placing Eid on June 6. Should clouds obscure the sighting, the start of Dhul Hijjah shifts to May 29, pushing Eid to June 7.
All 2025 dates remain projections until official moon sighting announcements. The Saudi Supreme Court’s decision is considered authoritative for Hajj-related observances, though other countries may follow local sighting committees.
Overview of Key 2025 Dates
| Milestone | Projected Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dhul Hijjah Crescent Sighting | May 27, 2025 | Saudi Supreme Court call |
| Dhul Hijjah 1 (if sighted) | May 28, 2025 | First day of final Islamic month |
| Day of Arafat | June 5, 2025 | 9th Dhul Hijjah, holiest day of Hajj |
| Eid ul-Adha (Saudi Arabia) | June 6, 2025 | 10th Dhul Hijjah |
| Eid ul-Adha (Pakistan/India) | June 7 or 8, 2025 | Local sighting May 28 |
| UK/London | June 6 or 7, 2025 | Typically aligns with Saudi |
| Holiday End (Saudi) | June 10, 2025 | 3-4 day public holiday |
Key Insights for Eid ul-Adha 2025
- The Saudi Arabia date serves as the most authoritative reference, particularly for Hajj pilgrimage timings
- Pakistan, India, and Malaysia follow local moon sighting committees, potentially celebrating one to two days after Saudi Arabia
- The Day of Arafat on June 5 is observed with fasting by non-pilgrims and marks the spiritual climax of Hajj
- GCC countries including UAE, Qatar, and Oman have announced holiday periods of 4-6 days around the festival
- The Islamic calendar’s lunar basis means Eid shifts approximately 11 days earlier on the Gregorian calendar each year
- Greetings such as “Eid ul-Adha Mubarak” are exchanged beginning on the first day of the festival
- Public holiday schedules vary significantly by country, with some nations offering 3-4 days while others provide longer periods
Essential Facts About Eid ul-Adha 2025
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Festival Duration | 3-4 days (10th-13th Dhul Hijjah) |
| Calendar Basis | Islamic lunar calendar, Dhul Hijjah 10th |
| Regional Variations | Saudi Arabia vs. moon-sighted countries (Pakistan, India) |
| Hajj Connection | Concludes the annual pilgrimage to Mecca |
| Significance | Commemorates Ibrahim’s test of faith |
| Observances | Special prayers, Qurbani (sacrifice), charitable giving |
Eid ul Adha 2025 Dates by Location
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s official Eid ul-Adha date carries particular weight because the kingdom hosts the Hajj pilgrimage. The Saudi Supreme Court has called for crescent sighting on May 27, 2025. Astronomical calculations suggest favorable conditions for visibility on that evening. The Saudi Exchange (Tadawul) has announced an expected holiday period of six days, from June 5 to June 10, with Eid activities beginning on the evening of June 6.
Pakistan and South Asia
Pakistan’s Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is scheduled to attempt moon sighting on May 28, one day after Saudi Arabia’s attempt. If the crescent is visible on May 28, Dhul Hijjah begins on May 29, placing Eid ul-Adha on June 7. Should clouds obstruct the sighting, the month starts the following day, with Eid observed on June 8. This pattern typically results in Pakistan celebrating one to two days after Saudi Arabia.
South Asian countries including India and Malaysia generally follow similar local sighting procedures, which may lead to different dates from Saudi Arabia depending on local visibility conditions.
United Kingdom and London
Muslims in the UK and London typically reference Saudi announcements while also maintaining local moon sighting efforts. The East London Mosque and other major Islamic centres monitor both Saudi and local sighting reports. Most UK Muslims are expected to observe Eid on June 6 or June 7, aligning closely with Saudi Arabia’s date. School holidays, including those detailed in the Scotland School Holidays 2025 – Confirmed Dates Guide, may be adjusted to accommodate the local celebration date.
GCC Countries Holiday Schedules
Gulf Cooperation Council nations have announced expected holiday periods that generally follow Saudi Arabia’s timing. The UAE anticipates a four-day holiday from June 5 to June 8, with the possibility of adjustment if moon sighting is delayed. Qatar expects five days of holidays from June 5 to June 9. Oman has announced a five-day holiday period, extended due to Eid falling on a Friday.
Eid ul Fitr and Eid ul Adha 2025 Comparison
Eid ul-Fitr and Eid ul-Adha represent the two major celebrations in the Islamic calendar, though they occur at different times and mark distinct spiritual milestones. Eid ul-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, fell in late March or early April 2025, approximately two months before Eid ul-Adha.
Key Differences Between the Two Festivals
| Aspect | Eid ul-Fitr | Eid ul-Adha |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | 1st Shawwal (after Ramadan) | 10th Dhul Hijjah (after Hajj) |
| 2025 Dates | Late March/Early April | June 6-8 (projected) |
| Significance | Celebrates Ramadan fasting completion | Commemorates Ibrahim’s sacrifice |
| Observances | Special prayers, Zakat al-Fitr | Prayers, Qurbani (sacrifice) |
| Hajj Connection | None | Concludes annual pilgrimage |
While both festivals involve special congregational prayers and expressions of joy, Eid ul-Adha carries additional significance through its connection to Hajj, with pilgrims on Mount Arafat and the subsequent symbolic stoning of the devil representing the events commemorated during the festival.
The Islamic calendar is approximately 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, causing Islamic dates to shift earlier each year. This means Eid ul-Fitr 2026 will occur earlier than its 2025 counterpart, while Eid ul-Adha 2026 is projected for late May.
Previous and Next Eid ul Adha Dates
Historical Reference: Eid ul-Adha 2024
Eid ul-Adha in 2024 occurred in mid to late June, following the typical pattern of the lunar calendar’s progression. The festival’s movement through the Gregorian calendar demonstrates how Islamic dates shift annually, making long-term planning dependent on official sighting announcements each year.
Looking Ahead: Eid ul-Adha 2026
According to astronomical projections, Eid ul-Adha 2026 is expected to begin at sunset on May 27, 2026, lasting through May 30. Dhul Hijjah 1447H would commence on May 18, 2026, with the Day of Arafat falling on May 26. This earlier positioning on the Gregorian calendar reflects the lunar calendar’s continued progression.
Timeline: Dhul Hijjah to Eid ul-Adha 2025
Understanding the sequence of events leading to Eid ul-Adha helps contextualize the significance of each date in the final month of the Islamic calendar.
- May 27, 2025 (Tuesday) – Saudi Supreme Court calls for Dhul Hijjah crescent sighting
- May 28, 2025 (Wednesday) – Expected first day of Dhul Hijjah if crescent sighted on May 27
- May 28, 2025 (Wednesday) – Pakistan local sighting attempt for Dhul Hijjah
- June 5, 2025 (Thursday) – Day of Arafat, observed with fasting and prayers
- June 6, 2025 (Friday) – Eid ul-Adha begins in Saudi Arabia and aligned regions
- June 7-8, 2025 (Saturday-Sunday) – Potential Eid dates for Pakistan and moon-sighted countries
- June 10, 2025 (Tuesday) – End of extended holiday period in Saudi Arabia
- June 13, 2025 (Friday) – Final day of Eid ul-Adha observance (13th Dhul Hijjah)
What is Confirmed and What Remains Uncertain
Given the nature of moon sighting announcements, certain information about Eid ul-Adha 2025 is firmly established while other details remain dependent on official determinations.
Final confirmation of Eid ul-Adha dates depends entirely on actual crescent moon sightings. While astronomical calculations strongly suggest visibility on May 27, 2025, only the Saudi Supreme Court’s official announcement can confirm the start of Dhul Hijjah.
| Established Information | Unconfirmed / Pending |
|---|---|
| Saudi crescent sighting scheduled for May 27 | Whether crescent is actually visible on May 27 |
| Astronomical projections for Eid on June 6-7 | Official Saudi announcement of Dhul Hijjah start |
| Pakistan sighting scheduled for May 28 | Pakistan’s final observance date |
| GCC holiday announcements (pending confirmation) | UK local mosque confirmation of celebration date |
| Hajj pilgrimage centred on June 5 Arafat | Specific regional public holiday schedules |
| Projected 2026 date of May 27 | Any adjustments to 2026 projections |
The Significance of Eid ul-Adha and Its Connection to Hajj
Eid ul-Adha holds profound religious importance in Islam as the festival commemorating the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son Ismail in obedience to God’s command. Before the sacrifice could be carried out, God provided a ram to sacrifice in the boy’s place. This event forms the foundation of the Hajj pilgrimage, where pilgrims reenact significant moments from Ibrahim’s story, including the stoning of the devil at Mina and the circling of the Kaaba.
The Day of Arafat, occurring the day before Eid, represents the spiritual pinnacle of Hajj when pilgrims stand in supplication on the Plain of Arafat. Non-pilgrims observe this day through fasting and increased prayers. The subsequent Eid celebration marks the conclusion of this sacred pilgrimage period.
The tradition of Qurbani, or sacrifice, during Eid ul-Adha requires those with sufficient means to sacrifice an animal, typically a sheep, goat, cow, or camel, with the meat divided among family, friends, and those in need. This practice reinforces themes of gratitude, generosity, and social solidarity that define the festival’s spirit.
Sources and Official References
Information in this article draws from multiple authoritative sources tracking Eid ul-Adha 2025 announcements and astronomical projections.
“The Supreme Court has called upon all Muslims in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to sight the crescent of the month of Dhul Hijjah 1446H on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 corresponding to the 29th of Shawwal 1446H.”
— Saudi Supreme Court crescent sighting announcement
Additional authoritative sources include the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee for Pakistan’s moon sighting process, the East London Mosque’s community announcements, and astronomical calculations from calendar projection services. The BBC’s educational coverage provides accessible explanations of Eid traditions and timings for general audiences.
GCC holiday announcements remain in expected status pending final moon sighting confirmations, with individual country labour ministries expected to issue formal holiday schedules in the weeks preceding the festival.
Summary: Planning for Eid ul-Adha 2025
Eid ul-Adha 2025 is projected to begin on June 6 in Saudi Arabia, with regional variations of one to two days possible depending on local moon sighting outcomes. The sequence of key dates—crescent sighting on May 27, Dhul Hijjah beginning May 28, Day of Arafat on June 5, and Eid on June 6—provides a framework for planning purposes. The World Mental Health Day – 2025 Theme, Date and Activities resources remind us of the importance of community connection during religious observances.
Those making arrangements should monitor official announcements from Saudi authorities and local Islamic centres, as dates may shift by a day depending on sighting results. Holiday schedules, school closures, and travel plans should incorporate flexibility to account for these potential variations. The interconnected nature of global Islamic observance means that Saudi Arabia’s announcement typically influences dates observed across much of the Muslim world, though local sighting committees maintain independent authority in their respective countries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “Eid ul-Adha Mubarak” mean?
“Eid ul-Adha Mubarak” translates to “Blessed Eid of Sacrifice” and is the traditional greeting exchanged during the festival. Muslims use this phrase to wish each other joy and blessings during the celebration.
Can Eid ul-Adha dates vary between countries?
Yes, dates can differ by one to two days. Saudi Arabia typically sets the reference date for Hajj, but countries following local moon sighting committees, such as Pakistan and India, may celebrate on different days depending on their own sighting results.
When is the Day of Arafat in 2025?
The Day of Arafat is projected to fall on June 5, 2025. This day marks the ninth of Dhul Hijjah and is the holiest day of the Hajj pilgrimage. Non-pilgrims often observe it with fasting.
What is the difference between Eid ul-Fitr and Eid ul-Adha?
Eid ul-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and the month of fasting, while Eid ul-Adha commemorates Ibrahim’s sacrifice and coincides with the conclusion of Hajj. Eid ul-Fitr involves giving Zakat al-Fitr, while Eid ul-Adha involves the tradition of Qurbani (sacrifice).
What day is Eid al-Adha 2026?
Eid ul-Adha 2026 is projected to begin at sunset on May 27, 2026, lasting through May 30. Dhul Hijjah 1447H is expected to start on May 18, 2026.
How long do Eid ul-Adha holidays last?
Holiday duration varies by country. Saudi Arabia typically offers 3-4 days of public holidays. GCC countries have announced 4-6 day periods. In the UK, holiday length depends on employer policies and local arrangements.
When was Eid ul-Adha 2024?
Eid ul-Adha 2024 occurred in mid to late June, following the lunar calendar’s progression. The Islamic calendar shifts approximately 11 days earlier on the Gregorian calendar each year.
Why does the date of Eid change every year?
The Islamic calendar is lunar-based, consisting of approximately 354 days compared to the solar Gregorian calendar’s 365 days. This 11-day difference causes Islamic dates to shift earlier on the Gregorian calendar annually, creating a cycle where Eid occurs in different seasons over time.