The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has released its 2026 lunar calendar, outlining expected moon sighting dates for all Islamic months. The detailed schedule includes data on moon birth timings, sunset hours, and expected visibility.
According to the PMD, the Shaban crescent is expected on January 21, while the Ramadan moon is likely to be visible on February 18, 2026. The Shawwal moon, marking Eid ul Fitr, is predicted for March 19, followed by Dhul Qadah on April 18, 2026.
The department predicted that the Dhul Hijjah moon may appear on May 17, 2026, indicating that Eid ul Adha is likely to fall on May 27. The Muharram moon could be visible on June 15, marking the beginning of the new Islamic year. The Safar moon is expected on July 15, while Rabi ul Awwal may appear on August 13, 2026.
Similarly, the Rabi us Sani crescent is likely on September 12, Jumada ul Awwal on October 12, Jumada us Sani on November 10, and the Rajab moon on December 10, 2026.
The PMD stated that the calendar was compiled by its Climate Data Processing Center, which regularly prepares lunar forecasts to support official moon sighting and religious event planning across the country.