The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has released its 2026 lunar calendar, outlining the expected moon sighting dates for all Islamic months.
The calendar, prepared by PMD’s Climate Data Processing Center, includes detailed information on moon birth timings, sunset hours, and expected visibility across the country.
🕌 Expected Moon Sighting and Islamic Month Dates (2026)
| Islamic Month | Expected Crescent Date | Notable Event |
|---|---|---|
| Shaban | January 21, 2026 | Pre-Ramadan month begins |
| Ramadan | February 18, 2026 | Start of fasting month |
| Shawwal | March 19, 2026 | Eid ul Fitr expected |
| Dhul Qadah | April 18, 2026 | — |
| Dhul Hijjah | May 17, 2026 | Eid ul Adha likely on May 27 |
| Muharram | June 15, 2026 | Start of Islamic New Year |
| Safar | July 15, 2026 | — |
| Rabi ul Awwal | August 13, 2026 | — |
| Rabi us Sani | September 12, 2026 | — |
| Jumada ul Awwal | October 12, 2026 | — |
| Jumada us Sani | November 10, 2026 | — |
| Rajab | December 10, 2026 | — |
🕋 Key Highlights
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Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on February 18, pending official moon sighting.
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Eid ul Fitr likely to fall on March 19, 2026.
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Eid ul Adha expected on May 27, 2026.
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The new Islamic year (1448 AH) is expected to start on June 15, 2026 with the sighting of the Muharram crescent.
📢 Official Context
The PMD stated that the calendar has been compiled to assist the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, religious scholars, and the public in advance planning for major religious observances.
However, the department clarified that final confirmation of each month’s start will depend on official moon sightings announced by the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.
