Abu Dhabi, May 07 (V7N) — Astronomers in the United Arab Emirates have predicted that the holy Eid al-Adha may be celebrated on May 27 this year, according to reports published by Gulf News.

The forecast was made by Ibrahim Al Jarwan, chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Society and a member of the Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Sciences.

Al Jarwan stated that the moon marking the beginning of the Islamic month of Zilhaj is expected to be born on May 17 at 12:01 a.m. UAE time.

According to his calculations, the moon will remain visible for approximately 58 minutes after sunset on that day and is expected to appear around 10 degrees above the horizon, making moon sighting possible under favorable weather conditions.

Based on these astronomical projections, May 18 could become the first day of Zilhaj 1447 AH. As a result, the Day of Arafat may fall on May 26, followed by Eid al-Adha on May 27.

However, astronomers emphasized that these dates remain scientific estimates and that the final announcement will depend on the official moon sighting confirmation by religious authorities.

END/SMA/AJ