But what’s causing this projection? It all comes down to the moon — or rather, the rare chance of spotting it on May 27.

According to Suparco, the first day of Zil Hajj, the last and holiest month in the Islamic lunar calendar, is likely to begin on May 29 — but this depends entirely on the moon sighting.

Also read: Five Eidul Azha holidays announced for this year

Its forecast explains that the new moon will be born on May 27 at exactly 8:02am, but by sunset, it will be just 11 hours and 34 minutes old — far too young to be visible to the naked eye from anywhere in Pakistan. This slim window of visibility practically eliminates the chance of confirming the new month on that evening.

Adding weight to this forecast, renowned astronomer Dr Faheem Hashmi also confirmed that Eidul Azha is expected to be observed on June 7, reiterating that moon visibility on May 27 is highly unlikely based on astronomical data. He emphasized that the moon’s short age at sunset means it won’t be seen through conventional methods, delaying the start of Zil Hajj by a day.

Meanwhile, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Eid ul Adha is projected to occur one day earlier — on June 6, according to the Emirates Astronomy Society. This potential difference in celebration dates across countries adds another layer of curiosity for observers of lunar-based events.

As anticipation builds, Pakistanis now await the official moon sighting decision, but all signs — scientific and astronomical — are pointing to a June 7 celebration for one of Islam’s most sacred festivals.