Arafat (Arafah) Day 2026: Dates & Celebration

Last updated: May 25, 2026

Arafat (Arafah) Day, observed by Muslims worldwide, marks the day when Prophet Muhammad delivered his farewell and final sermon in the Uranah valley of Mount Arafat during his only Hajj pilgrimage in 10 AH (632 CE).

Muslims observe Arafat Day on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah each year. The specific date varies according to the Islamic lunar calendar.

For Indian travelers, the Day of Arafah also signals the start of the Hajj return airlift and the Eid holiday travel rush — see our Day of Arafah 2026 in India guide for dates, return flights, and travel tips.

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When is Arafat Day in 2026?

Arafat Day is expected to fall on Tuesday, 26 May 2026. It takes place on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah, the second day of the Hajj pilgrimage, just before the Islamic holiday of Eid ul Adha.

Please keep in mind that the exact date may vary slightly depending on the sighting of the crescent moon, which can differ by location.

Eid ul Adha 2025 Around The World: When and How to Celebrate?

Arafat Day 2026 holidays by country

Arafat Day is a public holiday in several Muslim-majority countries, though the number of days off and the way it connects with Eid ul Adha holidays varies by country. Here is what to expect in Wego’s key markets.

UAE

Arafat Day (Tuesday, 26 May) is an official public holiday in the UAE. Combined with 3 days of Eid ul Adha holidays (27–29 May) and the weekend (30–31 May), UAE residents can expect a 6-day break.

Saudi Arabia

Public sector employees in Saudi Arabia receive an extended Eid break, with holidays running from the 5th to the 15th of Dhul Hijjah. Private sector workers are entitled to Arafat Day plus 3 days of Eid ul Adha. Combined with the weekend, this gives most residents a 6-day break from Tuesday, 26 May through Sunday, 31 May.

Egypt

Waqfet Arafat (Arafat Day) on Tuesday, 26 May is a public holiday in Egypt. The Eid ul Adha holiday continues from Wednesday, 27 May through Friday, 29 May. Final dates are subject to confirmation by Dar al-Ifta based on the moon sighting.

Kuwait

Waqfat Arafat (Tue 26 May) is an official public holiday, followed by 3 days of Eid al-Adha (27–29 May). With the weekend, that’s a 6-day break.

How is Arafat Day observed?

Arafat Day is considered one of the holiest and most momentous days in the Islamic faith. It is a day of immense spiritual significance and personal transformation, where the faithful come together in devotion, reflection, and unity, embodying the core values of Islam in preparation for the celebration of Eid ul Adha.

On this sacred day, pilgrims gather at the plain of Arafat, located near Makkah, Saudi Arabia. They spend the entire day in a state of devotion, prayer, and deep reflection, participating in a central ritual known as Wuquf, or the “standing.”

This ritual involves standing before God in humility and seeking His mercy. It is widely believed that the prayers and supplications made on this day are especially powerful, with the promise that sins will be forgiven and spiritual blessings granted.

For those not physically present at the plain of Arafat, the day is commemorated in various ways. Common practices include:

Fasting on the Day of Arafat (highly recommended for non-pilgrims)
Seeking forgiveness through prayers and supplications
Engaging in charity and acts of kindness

Muslims strive to connect with the spiritual essence of the day, reflecting on their faith and actions.

As Arafat Day concludes, Muslims worldwide prepare for the joyous celebrations of Eid ul Adha, the “Festival of Sacrifice.”

Sources

Disclaimer: Wego strives to ensure all information presented in this article is accurate and up to date at the time of publication. Travel policies, prices, visa requirements, and conditions can change rapidly. We strongly recommend verifying critical details with official sources before making travel decisions. Wego does not accept liability for any inaccuracies, oversights, or changes that may occur after publication.