New Delhi: Dhul Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is considered one of the holiest periods in Islam and holds deep spiritual importance
for Muslims worldwide. Known as the “Month of Pilgrimage”, it marks the time of Hajj in Mecca and the celebration of Eid al-Adha. The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are especially significant, as Muslims believe good deeds, prayers and charity during this period carry greater rewards. Fasting during the first nine days, particularly on the Day of Arafah, is also widely observed.
In India, Dhul Hijjah 2026 begins on May 19 following the sighting of the crescent moon. The Day of Arafah will be observed on May 27, while Eid al-Adha or Bakrid will be celebrated on May 28, 2026. The month is also associated with sacrifice, reflection, worship and acts of kindness. Here is the significance, fasting rules and all you need to know about Dhul Hijjah.
Dhul Hijjah fasting rules and other details
Dhul Hijjah significance
Dhul Hijjah is the 12th and final month of the Islamic calendar and is among the four sacred months in Islam. The period is closely linked with Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca, and Eid al-Adha. Islamic teachings describe the first 10 days of the month as especially blessed, with Muslims encouraged to increase prayer, charity, remembrance of Allah and other good deeds during this time.
Importance of first 10 days
The first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah are regarded by many Muslims as the most spiritually rewarding days of the year. Islamic scholars often refer to Quranic verses and Hadith that highlight the value of worship during this period. These days combine major acts of devotion including fasting, prayer, charity and pilgrimage, making them deeply significant in Islamic practice.
Day of Arafah and fasting rewards
The Day of Arafah falls on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah and is considered the most important day of Hajj. Pilgrims gather at Mount Arafat to seek forgiveness and mercy. Muslims who are not performing Hajj are encouraged to fast on this day, as Islamic teachings state that fasting on Arafah can bring forgiveness for sins of both the previous and coming year.
Eid al-Adha and Qurbani explained
Eid al-Adha begins on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah and continues for three days. The festival commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah before a ram was provided instead. During Eid al-Adha, Muslims perform Qurbani by sacrificing an animal such as a goat, sheep or cow, with the meat shared among family, neighbours and those in need.
Why Muslims avoid cutting hair and nails
Muslims intending to perform Qurbani are advised not to cut their hair, nails or body hair from the beginning of Dhul Hijjah until the sacrifice is completed. The practice symbolically connects them with pilgrims performing Hajj. However, if someone forgets and trims their hair or nails accidentally, it is not considered a serious violation. The recommendation mainly applies to the person arranging the sacrifice.
Other practices followed during Dhul Hijjah
Many Muslims use these days to avoid arguments, gossip and harsh behaviour while focusing on self-discipline and worship. Reciting Takbeer, Tahleel, Tahmeed and Tasbeeh is strongly encouraged throughout the period. People also increase Quran reading, dua and charitable giving, while many families use the occasion to repair relationships and reconnect with relatives.
Dhul Hijjah is not only linked with Hajj and Eid al-Adha but also serves as a deeply spiritual period centred on worship, gratitude and compassion. From fasting and charity to prayer and self-reflection, the month encourages Muslims to strengthen both faith and character.
