Muslims across Pakistan are preparing to welcome the holy month of Rabi-ul-Awwal. The month holds great importance because it marks the birth of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). As preparations begin, a new moon forecast has provided an early estimate for the start of the month and the expected date of Eid Milad-un-Nabi.
According to the Hilal Research Council, the Rabi-ul-Awwal crescent is likely to be sighted on Friday, August 14, 2026. If this prediction proves correct, the first day of Rabi-ul-Awwal will fall on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
Based on this forecast, Eid Milad-un-Nabi is expected to be observed across Pakistan on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. The council emphasized that the dates are based on astronomical calculations and remain subject to official confirmation.
Hilal Research Council Secretary General Khalid Ijaz Mufti shared details about the moon’s expected birth. He said the new moon conjunction will take place at 10:36 pm Pakistan Standard Time on the night between August 12 and August 13.
However, he explained that the chances of seeing the crescent on August 13 are extremely low. The moon will be too young to be visible. In addition, the time between sunset and moonset will not be long enough for a successful sighting.
Because of these conditions, Safar is expected to complete 30 days. This increases the possibility that the crescent will be visible on the evening of August 14.
The Hilal Research Council also explained that moon sighting depends on more than the birth of the moon. Experts consider the gap between sunset and moonset an important factor. This period must be sufficient for the crescent to become visible in the sky.
Astronomical calculations help estimate possible dates, but they do not replace the official moon sighting process. Religious authorities continue to follow the traditional method of verifying moon sightings before announcing the start of each Islamic month.
The council reminded the public that its forecast is only an early prediction. The official beginning of Rabi-ul-Awwal will be decided after reviewing moon sighting reports from different parts of the country.
Pakistan’s Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will make the final announcement. The committee will examine testimonies from observers and issue the official declaration for the start of Rabi-ul-Awwal.
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Until then, the expected date of Eid Milad-un-Nabi remains provisional. Muslims across Pakistan are now awaiting the official moon sighting decision, which will confirm the beginning of the blessed month and the exact date of the annual religious observance.
