Expected Hajj Dates: 4th June 2026 to 9th June 2026
Duration: 5 to 6 days (depending on lunar sighting)
Locations: Mecca, Mina, Arafat, Muzdalifah, and Jamarat (Saudi Arabia)
The Hajj pilgrimage in 2026 is anticipated to begin on Wednesday, 4th June 2026, corresponding to the 8th of Dhul-Hijjah 1446 AH, and will conclude around Monday, 9th June 2026. These dates depend on the official moon sighting in Saudi Arabia. Since the Islamic lunar calendar is shorter than the Gregorian calendar by about 10–12 days, Hajj dates shift earlier every year.
Every year, millions of Muslims prepare spiritually and physically for Hajj — the sacred journey symbolizing obedience, unity, and submission to Allah. Below is the detailed day-by-day Hajj schedule for 2026, outlining each ritual’s expected Gregorian date and spiritual significance.
Pilgrims enter the sacred state of Ihram and declare their intention for Hajj before traveling from Mecca to Mina, a valley located about 8 kilometers away. This day is known as Yawm al-Tarwiyah (Day of Quenching).
Pilgrims spend the day in prayer and reflection, performing shortened prayers (Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha) without combining them. They stay overnight in Mina, preparing spiritually for the next day — the Standing at Arafat.
Spiritual Message: Mina represents the beginning of purification — a peaceful prelude before the climax of worship at Arafat.
On this day, pilgrims travel from Mina to the plains of Arafat. The period between noon and sunset, known as Wuquf at Arafat, is the most important part of Hajj. Pilgrims stand in humble supplication, asking Allah for forgiveness and mercy.
The Prophet ﷺ said: “Hajj is Arafah.” (Tirmidhi) – meaning, whoever misses the standing at Arafat misses Hajj itself. This day mirrors the Day of Judgment, where all souls will stand before Allah seeking salvation.
Spiritual Message: Arafat symbolizes divine mercy and human humility. It is the heart of Hajj.
After sunset, pilgrims leave Arafat and proceed to Muzdalifah without praying Maghrib. Upon arrival, they perform Maghrib and Isha together and rest under the open sky. Pilgrims collect small pebbles (around 70) for the upcoming stoning ritual at Jamarat.
The simplicity of Muzdalifah teaches patience and gratitude, as pilgrims sleep on the ground with minimal provisions.
Spiritual Message: Muzdalifah reminds believers that comfort is temporary, and peace lies in trust in Allah.
Pilgrims return to Mina early in the morning. They perform the stoning of the largest pillar (Jamarat al-Aqabah), throwing seven pebbles while proclaiming, “Allahu Akbar.” This act commemorates Prophet Ibrahim (AS) rejecting Satan’s temptation.
After the stoning, pilgrims offer the sacrifice (Qurbani), remembering Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Isma’il (AS). Then they shave or trim their hair (Tahalul), exiting from the state of Ihram partially.
Pilgrims then travel to Mecca to perform Tawaf al-Ifadah (circling the Kaaba seven times) and Sa’i between Safa and Marwah. These rituals mark the completion of the main Hajj pillars.
Spiritual Message: This day combines sacrifice, obedience, and gratitude — representing victory over one’s inner self.
Pilgrims remain in Mina to perform the stoning of all three Jamarat — the small, middle, and large pillars — throwing seven pebbles at each while invoking Allah’s greatness. These are known as the Days of Tashreeq.
After each stoning, pilgrims pause for du‘a, asking for forgiveness, strength, and steadfastness.
“And remember Allah during the appointed days.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:203)
Pilgrims repeat the stoning ritual for all three Jamarat as on the previous day. Those who wish may depart from Mina after completing their stoning on this day, while others may stay one extra day for additional worship.
Spiritual Message: The repetition of stoning symbolizes a lifelong struggle against sin and temptation.
Pilgrims who remain in Mina perform the stoning one final time before returning to Mecca. Before leaving the holy city, they perform the Farewell Tawaf (Tawaf al-Wida‘) — seven rounds around the Kaaba — expressing gratitude and bidding farewell to the Sacred House.
Spiritual Message: The Farewell Tawaf marks the conclusion of Hajj — a symbolic reminder that every journey in life ends in meeting our Creator.
Many pilgrims extend their stay after Hajj to perform Ziyarat — visiting sacred sites in Mecca like Jabal al-Noor (Cave Hira), Jabal al-Thawr, and Jannat al-Mu’alla. Afterwards, they travel to Medina to visit the Prophet’s Mosque and send salutations to the beloved Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
Expected Ziyarat Dates: 10th–14th June 2026 (approximate)
| Islamic Date | Gregorian Date (2026) | Ritual |
|---|---|---|
| 8 Dhul-Hijjah | 4 June | Mina – Day of Tarwiyah |
| 9 Dhul-Hijjah | 5 June | Arafat – Standing at Mount Arafat |
| Night of 9 Dhul-Hijjah | 5 June (Night) | Muzdalifah – Rest & Collect Pebbles |
| 10 Dhul-Hijjah | 6 June | Eid al-Adha, Stoning, Sacrifice, Tawaf al-Ifadah |
| 11 Dhul-Hijjah | 7 June | Mina – Second Day of Stoning |
| 12 Dhul-Hijjah | 8 June | Mina – Third Day of Stoning, Departure Option |
| 13 Dhul-Hijjah | 9 June | Optional Fourth Day of Stoning |
The Hajj dates vary annually because the Islamic calendar is lunar-based, with 354 days — about 11 days shorter than the solar year. Consequently, Hajj occurs around 10–12 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar, rotating through all seasons over a 33-year cycle.
“And proclaim to the people the Hajj; they will come to you on foot and on every lean camel from every distant pass.” (Surah Al-Hajj 22:27)
Hajj unites Muslims from every nation, language, and color — symbolizing that before Allah, all are equal. The pilgrimage cleanses sins, strengthens faith, and transforms the believer into a better servant of Allah.
The Hajj 2026 is expected from 4th to 9th June. Yet beyond dates and rituals, it represents a spiritual rebirth — a divine invitation to purify the soul and renew the covenant with Allah.
Whether you plan to perform Hajj this year or in the future, may this schedule help you understand its sacred rhythm, deep meaning, and transformative purpose.
May Allah accept the Hajj of all pilgrims and grant every believer the honor of visiting His Sacred House. Ameen.
The information provided on this page is for general Islamic awareness and educational purposes. For any personal rulings, fatawa, or specific religious decisions, please consult a qualified Mufti or recognized Islamic scholar who can consider your individual circumstances.
Parvaiz Ahmad — Islamic Researcher & Umrah Consultant