When Is Ramadan & Hajj 2026? Dates, Islamic Calendar & Tips
As the Islamic year 1447 AH approaches, Muslims around the world are preparing for two of the most sacred occasions in Islam — Ramadan and Hajj. Both events follow the lunar Hijri calendar, meaning their dates shift about 10 to 12 days earlier each year on the Gregorian calendar. While exact timings depend on moon sightings, astronomers have already projected their expected dates for 2026. Here’s everything you need to know — from calendar details to practical tips for preparation.
Understanding the Islamic Calendar
The Hijri calendar is based on the cycles of the moon and consists of 12 lunar months, totaling about 354 days per year. Because of this, Islamic events like Ramadan and Hajj do not align with fixed Gregorian dates. The official start and end of each month are declared only after the hilal (crescent moon) is sighted, either by local religious authorities or by astronomical confirmation.
Ramadan 2026: Expected Dates and Highlights
Estimated Start and End
- Ramadan 1447 AH is expected to begin on Wednesday, 18 February 2026 (1 Ramadan 1447).
- The holy month is projected to end on Thursday, 19 March 2026, followed by Eid al-Fitr celebrations.
- Depending on the sighting of the new moon, the dates may vary by one day (±1 day).
Spiritual Significance
Ramadan is the month of fasting, reflection, and charity. Muslims abstain from food, drink, and negative actions from dawn until sunset each day. The final 10 nights of Ramadan are especially sacred, with the Night of Power (Laylat al-Qadr) — believed to fall on one of the odd nights, most commonly the 27th night, expected to occur around Monday, 16 March 2026.
Hajj 2026: Pilgrimage Dates and Details
When Will Hajj 2026 Take Place?
Hajj takes place during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah, the 12th and final month of the Hijri year. The pilgrimage rituals span from the 8th to the 13th of Dhu al-Hijjah, culminating in the Day of Arafah and Eid al-Adha.
- 1 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 — expected to fall on Monday, 18 May 2026.
- Day of Arafah (9 Dhu al-Hijjah) — expected on Tuesday, 26 May 2026.
- Eid al-Adha (10 Dhu al-Hijjah) — expected on Wednesday, 27 May 2026.
- Official confirmation will follow based on the Saudi moon-sighting authority.
Key Hajj Rituals
- 8 Dhu al-Hijjah (Tarwiyah): Pilgrims enter the state of Ihram and proceed to Mina.
- 9 Dhu al-Hijjah (Arafah): The most sacred day of Hajj, where pilgrims stand in prayer at the Plain of Arafat.
- 10 Dhu al-Hijjah (Eid al-Adha): The Day of Sacrifice, marking the completion of Hajj rituals.
- 11–13 Dhu al-Hijjah (Tashreeq Days): Stone-throwing rituals at Mina and continued remembrance of Allah.
2026 Islamic Calendar Snapshot
| Hijri Month | Gregorian Date (2026) | Event |
|---|---|---|
| Ramadan 1, 1447 | 18 February | Start of Ramadan |
| Shawwal 1, 1447 | 19 March | Eid al-Fitr |
| Dhu al-Hijjah 9, 1447 | 26 May | Day of Arafah |
| Dhu al-Hijjah 10, 1447 | 27 May | Eid al-Adha (Hajj) |
Tips for Muslims Planning for Ramadan & Hajj 2026
- Plan early: Confirm your Hajj registration and travel arrangements months ahead, as quotas fill quickly.
- Follow official moon-sighting announcements: Final dates are confirmed by Islamic authorities in each country.
- Budget wisely: Prepare financially for accommodation, travel, and sacrifice costs (Qurbani).
- Stay healthy: Begin physical preparation for Hajj — walking practice, hydration, and proper nutrition.
- Spiritual readiness: Increase Qur’an recitation, prayer, and charity in the months before Ramadan.
- Check your calendar: Adjust work, study, or travel plans around the sacred months.
Final Thoughts
According to current astronomical estimates, Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin around 18 February, while Hajj 2026 is projected for 26–31 May. As always, final confirmation depends on the sighting of the moon. Muslims are encouraged to follow their national and regional authorities for official announcements. Whether fasting during Ramadan or performing Hajj, these sacred periods remain times of renewal, reflection, and unity for the global Muslim community.
Keywords: Ramadan 2026, Hajj 2026, Islamic Calendar, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha
