Nearly two million Muslims from around the world are expected to travel to Mecca in Saudi Arabia for Hajj 2026, one of the largest religious gatherings on Earth. The pilgrimage is expected to begin on May 25, while Eid al-Adha is likely to fall on May 27, depending on the moon sighting in Saudi Arabia.
Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam and is required once in a lifetime for every Muslim who is physically and financially able to make the journey. Every year, pilgrims gather in the holy city of Mecca to perform a series of rituals that follow the path of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), his wife Hajar, and Prophet Muhammad.
What Happens During Hajj?
The pilgrimage lasts several days and includes important religious rituals performed at different holy sites around Mecca.
Pilgrims first enter a spiritual state called Ihram, wearing simple white clothing that represents equality and unity among Muslims. Men usually wear two white cloths, while women wear modest dress.
One of the first rituals is Tawaf, where pilgrims walk around the Kaaba seven times inside the Grand Mosque in Mecca. The Kaaba is considered the holiest site in Islam.
Pilgrims also walk between the hills of Safa and Marwa, remembering Hajar’s search for water for her son Ismail. They later travel to Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah as part of the sacred journey.
The most important day of Hajj is the Day of Arafat, expected on May 26 this year. Pilgrims spend hours praying and asking for forgiveness at Mount Arafat. Many Muslims believe this is the holiest day of the Islamic year.
Eid al-Adha Celebrations
Eid al-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” begins after the Day of Arafat. Muslims around the world celebrate the occasion with prayers, family gatherings and charity.
The festival honours Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God before God replaced the sacrifice with a ram.
Many families sacrifice animals such as sheep, goats or cows, with part of the meat shared with poor and needy people. The celebration usually lasts three days in many countries.
Why Hajj Dates Change Every Year
Islam follows the lunar Hijri calendar, which is shorter than the Gregorian calendar used in most countries. Because of this, Hajj and Eid move about 10 to 11 days earlier every year.
The exact dates are officially confirmed after the sighting of the crescent moon in Saudi Arabia.
A Journey of Faith and Unity
For many Muslims, Hajj is the spiritual journey of a lifetime. People from different countries, cultures and languages gather in one place with the same purpose worship, prayer and unity.
The pilgrimage remains one of the world’s most powerful symbols of faith, bringing millions together every year in a shared spiritual experience.
