The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast that Eid Milad-un-Nabi is likely to be observed across Pakistan on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. The prediction is based on astronomical calculations regarding the visibility of the Rabi al-Awwal moon.
According to the PMD, the moon of Rabi al-Awwal is unlikely to be sighted on the evening of August 13. Officials said the moon’s age and other astronomical factors make its visibility difficult on that date.
If the forecast remains accurate, the first day of Rabi al-Awwal 1448 Hijri is expected to begin on Saturday, August 15. This means the 12th of Rabi al-Awwal, observed as Eid Milad-un-Nabi, is expected to fall on Wednesday, August 26.
The PMD also released its weather outlook for the expected moon sighting day. It said partly cloudy weather is likely in many areas of the country on August 13. Such conditions may affect moon visibility in some locations.
In Karachi, the moon is expected to set at around 7:40 p.m. on August 13. The department included this information as part of its astronomical assessment for the moon sighting.
Officials clarified that the PMD’s forecast is based only on scientific observations and calculations. It does not serve as the official confirmation of the beginning of the Islamic month.
The final decision will be made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee. The committee is responsible for announcing the official sighting of the moon and confirming the start of Rabi al-Awwal across Pakistan.
The committee considers both astronomical data and eyewitness reports from different parts of the country. After reviewing all available information, it announces the official beginning of the Islamic month.
Every year, Muslims across Pakistan wait for this announcement before confirming the date of Eid Milad-un-Nabi. Government departments, businesses, educational institutions, and the public also rely on the official declaration for planning purposes.
The PMD plays an important supporting role by providing technical information about the moon’s position, age, and expected visibility. This scientific data helps the committee during its review, although the final announcement remains the committee’s responsibility.
If the current forecast is confirmed, Pakistan will observe Eid Milad-un-Nabi on August 26, 2026. Any public holiday notifications or official arrangements will be announced separately after the moon sighting is confirmed.
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Until the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee issues its official decision, the PMD’s forecast should be treated as an early estimate. Citizens are advised to follow the committee’s announcement for the confirmed start of Rabi al-Awwal and the official date of Eid Milad-un-Nabi.
