ISLAMABAD, May 22, 2025 — Pakistan will likely celebrate Eid ul Azha 2025 on Saturday, June 7, according to a scientific forecast issued by the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco). The agency used advanced astronomical models and modern observation tools to predict the beginning of Zilhaj, the twelfth month in the Islamic lunar calendar.
Suparco Highlights Unfavorable Moon Sighting Conditions
Suparco announced that the new crescent for Zilhaj 1446 AH will form on May 27, 2025, at 8:02 pm Pakistan Standard Time (PST). However, the agency emphasized that the chances of spotting the moon that evening are extremely low.
Their analysis revealed that the moon will be only 11 hours and 34 minutes old by sunset on May 27, which marks the 29th of Ziqa’ad. With just a 37-minute gap between sunset and moonset, the narrow timeframe will make visibility nearly impossible, even if weather conditions remain ideal.
Suparco Predicts Zilhaj to Begin on May 2
Considering these astronomical limitations, Suparco predicted that Zilhaj will commence on May 29, 2025. This calculation places the 10th of Zilhaj — the day Muslims observe Eid — on Saturday, June 7. Suparco based this conclusion on scientific evidence, while acknowledging the official confirmation depends on further observations.
Ruet-e-Hilal Committee to Confirm Moon Sighting
Despite Suparco’s detailed forecast, the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee holds the final authority to declare the start of Zilhaj. The committee collects and verifies moon sighting testimonies from across the country, combining traditional methods with scientific data to make its announcement.
Muslims celebrate Eidul Azha, or the Festival of Sacrifice, on the 10th of Zilhaj to honor Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) unwavering devotion and willingness to sacrifice his son on divine command. This sacred occasion also marks the conclusion of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Makkah that fulfills one of Islam’s five pillars. Families across Pakistan and the Muslim world commemorate the day with prayers, charity, and the ritual sacrifice of animals.
Based on the current lunar calculations, Pakistan will most likely observe Eid ul Azha 2025 on June 7, following the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee’s final decision.
