Eid Al Adha most likely on May 27

MUSCAT, APRIL 25

Eid Al Adha in Oman is expected to be celebrated on May 27 (Wednesday) according to astronomical calculations by Abdulwahab al Busaidy, a Board Member of the Oman Space and Astronomical Society.

This joyous occasion marks the end of the Haj season, and Omanis and residents are looking forward to at least a five-day holiday to enjoy festivities and quality time with loved ones.

In remarks to the Observer, Al Busaidy stated, “On Sunday, May 17, corresponding to the 29th of Dhul Qa'ada, 1447, the moon will set in Muscat at 7.38 pm, while the sun will set at 6.43 pm. The lunar illumination will be 1.1 per cent, and the moon will be elevated 10 degrees above the horizon, remaining visible for approximately 55 minutes.” “Based on this, we will be able to easily observe the moon, and therefore, Monday, May 18, will mark the first day of Dhul Qa'ada. Consequently, May 27 will be the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, which will be observed as Eid Al Adha across the entire Muslim world. Thus, all Muslims globally will observe Eid Al Adha on May 27,” he added.

Many in Oman are looking forward to at least a five-day holiday that includes the weekend. Holidays are expected to begin from Tuesday (May 26) onwards. The holiday season will see government offices, schools, and most businesses closed, allowing everyone to come together and celebrate Eid Al Adha.

Oman’s Council of Ministers approved a policy in December 2025 to announce national and religious holidays at the start of each Gregorian year. However, Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha remain exceptions. Their dates will be announced ‘in accordance with the declarations of the Main Committee for the Sighting of the Hijri Month Crescents’.

The expected timing is already influencing travel and logistics plans. With the holiday projected to start mid-week, many are planning trips to interior governorates for family gatherings and sacrificial rites.

For international travel, travel agencies recommend booking early but keeping itineraries flexible. "We always advise clients to allow for a one-day buffer," said a travel agent based in Muscat. He added that technology gets us 99 per cent of the way there, and the crescent moon does the rest.