The Islamic Calendar 2026 helps Muslims plan for the most sacred days of the year, from Ramadan and Hajj to Eid al-Adha and Ashura. 
Rooted in faith and guided by the moon, this calendar keeps us connected to our spiritual journey every month. 

Whether you’re preparing to fast, give Zakat, or join in Eid prayers, here’s everything you need to know about the Islamic Calendar 2026, and how to make the most of each blessed moment. 

What Is the Islamic (Hijri) Calendar? 

The Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar with 12 months, each beginning and ending with the sighting of the new moon. 
Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which is based on the sun, the Hijri calendar moves about 10 to 11 days earlier every year. 

This lunar rhythm reflects the cycles of worship, fasting, pilgrimage, and charity, that shape the lives of Muslims around the world. 

Each month holds spiritual meaning, from Muharram, the month of reflection, to Dhul-Hijjah, the month of Hajj and sacrifice. 

Islamic Calendar 2026 (Hijri 1447–1448) 

Dates are approximate and may vary based on local moon sighting. 

Rajab – January 3 to February 1, 2026 
Key Event: Isra and Mi’raj 

Sha’ban – January 20 to February 17, 2026 
Key Event: Preparation for Ramadan 

Ramadan – February 17 to March 18, 2026 
Key Event: Month of fasting and spiritual reflection 

• Eid al-Fitr: Thursday, March 19, 2026 (1 Shawwal 1447 AH) 

Shawwal – March 20 to April 19, 2026 
Key Event: Eid al-Fitr (expected on March 20, 2026) 

Dhul-Qi’dah – April 18 to May 17, 2026 
Key Event: Month of peace and Hajj preparation 

Dhul-Hijjah – May 18 to June 16, 2026 

• Start of Dhul-Hijjah: Expected Monday, May 25, 2026 (8 Dhul-Hijjah 1447 AH) 

• Day of ‘Arafah: Tuesday, May 26, 2026 (9 Dhul-Hijjah 1447 AH) 

• Eid al-Adha: Wednesday, May 27, 2026 (10 Dhul-Hijjah 1447 AH) 

• Days of Tashreeq: May 28–30, 2026 (11–13 Dhul-Hijjah 1447 AH) 

Muharram – June 17 to July 16, 2026 
Key Events: Islamic New Year and the Day of Ashura (expected July 1, 2026) 

Safar – July 15 to August 13, 2026 
Key Theme: Reflection and voluntary fasting 

Rabi’ al-Awwal – August 14 to September 11, 2026 
Key Event: Birth of the Prophet ﷺ 

Rabi’ al-Thani – September 12 to October 11, 2026 
Key Theme: Reflection and giving 

Jumada al-Ula – October 12 to November 11, 2026 
Key Theme: Early charity and acts of kindness 

Jumada al-Thani – November 12 to December 9, 2026 
Key Theme: Continuing good deeds and preparing for Rajab 

 

When is Ramadan 2026? 

Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on the evening of Tuesday, February 17, 2026, with the first day of fasting on Wednesday, February 18, and conclude on the evening of Wednesday, March 18, 2026. 
(Exact dates may vary depending on the moon sighting in each region.) 

This blessed month is a time of fasting, prayer, and reflection. It’s also when Muslims give Zakat and Sadaqah to support those in need. 
 

 

When is Eid al-Fitr 2026? 

Eid al-Fitr is expected to fall on Thursday, March 19, 2026, marking the end of Ramadan and the start of Shawwal. 
Families gather in joy and gratitude, beginning the day with Eid prayers and giving Sadaqat al-Fitr so others can share in the celebration. 

 

When is Hajj 2026? 

The Hajj pilgrimage is expected to take place from Monday, May 25, 2026, to Saturday, May 30, 2026 (8–13 Dhul-Hijjah 1447 AH). 
Key days include: 

• Day of ‘Arafah: Tuesday, May 26, 2026 

• Eid al-Adha: Wednesday, May 27, 2026 

Every year, millions of Muslims travel to Makkah to fulfill this pillar of Islam — a powerful reminder of equality, faith, and unity. 

Can’t travel? You can still share in the blessings through Qurbani and Hajj giving programs that provide meat and meals to families in need. 

 

When is Eid al-Adha 2026? 

Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, is expected on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. 
It honors Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) devotion and reminds us to give selflessly for the sake of Allah. 

Your Qurbani donation provides fresh meat to families in Yemen, Pakistan, Mali, and beyond. 
 

 

When is Muharram 2026 and the Day of Ashura? 

Ashura 2026 is expected to fall on Wednesday, July 1, 2026. 
The first month of the Hijri year, Muharram, invites reflection, fasting, and gratitude. 

It commemorates Prophet Musa’s (AS) deliverance and the legacy of Imam Hussain (RA). 
Honor this day with charity, give Sadaqah or Zakat in remembrance of faith and perseverance. 

 

Why Knowing Islamic Dates Matters 

The Muslim Calendar 2026 does more than mark time, it connects us to worship, generosity, and spiritual growth. 

Here’s why it matters: 

• Plan your Zakat before Ramadan or Dhul-Hijjah 

• Give Sadaqah Jariyah during sacred months like Rajab or Muharram 

•  Fulfill your Qurbani on Eid al-Adha 

• Fast voluntary days in Sha’ban or Ashura 

When you plan your giving around these sacred times, every act of charity multiplies in reward. 

 

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