Qurbani, also known as Udhiyah, is an essential ritual in Islam, deeply rooted in the story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his unwavering obedience to Allah. This sacrifice honors the time when Prophet Ibrahim was ready to offer his son Isma’il (AS) as a sacrifice in obedience to God’s will. However, Allah replaced his son with a ram, thereby instituting the tradition of animal sacrifice as a symbol of faith, mercy, and devotion. Muslims around the world observe Qurbani during the holy days of Eid al-Adha, not only as a religious obligation but also as a way to share blessings with those in need. The ritual involves sacrificing a permissible animal such as a sheep, goats, lambs, cows, buffaloes, and camels and distributing the meat in three portions—for the family, relatives, friends, and the less fortunate.
Eid al-Adha 2026 is expected to begin on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, following the Day of Arafat on Tuesday, May 26. In the Islamic lunar calendar, this corresponds to the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, which is the twelfth and last month. The dates are dependent on the sighting of the crescent moon, which is anticipated on May 27, making May 28 the first day of Dhul Hijjah. Known as the Days of Tashreeq, Eid al-Adha is celebrated over three days on the 10th, 11th, and 12th of Dhul Hijjah. During this sacred period, Muslims perform the Qurbani ritual, and families across the globe gather in prayer, reflection, and community support.
In 2026, the Day of Arafat will fall on Tuesday, May 26, an important spiritual milestone that precedes the sacrifice.
Permissible animals for Qurbani include:
Many Muslims choose to give their Qurbani on Eid day itself, believing it to be the most appropriate moment for this sacred act. However, with modern logistical complexities and the sheer volume of global donations, waiting until the last minute can jeopardize the effectiveness of your Qurbani.
Donating early, particularly through reputable charities like Al Qulub Trust, ensures your Qurbani is performed within the correct days of Tashreeq. Early contributions allow for the selection of healthy, eligible animals, the arrangement of timely slaughter, and the distribution of fresh meat, not frozen or delayed, to those in need. This timely act amplifies the impact of your sacrifice and ensures that families around the world can fully partake in the blessings of Eid. It also aligns with the spirit of preparedness and intentional worship that Islam encourages, reinforcing the meaning behind this significant act of devotion.
Beyond fulfilling a religious duty, Qurbani is a powerful expression of compassion and generosity. It revives the Sunnah of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and allows Muslims to reconnect with the values of sacrifice, humility, and care for the less fortunate. To guarantee that everyone benefits, the meat from the sacrifice is divided as follows: one-third goes to the donor’s family, one-third goes to friends and family, and one-third goes to the underprivileged and destitute. This structured distribution fosters unity and social responsibility, enabling every Muslim to contribute meaningfully to their community.
Al Qulub Trust extends this impact by conducting Qurbani where it is most needed, such as conflict-affected areas like Yemen or impoverished regions like Palestine, Afghanistan, Lebanon, Syria, Sudan, and Pakistan. This approach not only honors the religious tradition but magnifies its humanitarian benefits, ensuring that Eid al-Adha becomes a moment of collective joy and relief for those in desperate need..
Al Qulub Trust, a reputable international charity, has been facilitating Qurbani for donors for many years. With its 100% Qurbani Promise, the organization guarantees that every donation is handled in strict accordance with Islamic principles. This includes sourcing healthy animals, performing the sacrifice during the correct days, and delivering fresh, halal meat to communities in need. In 2024, Qurbani donations through Al Qulub Trust reached countries like Pakistan, Yemen, Palestine, Sudan, Afghanistan, Syrian Refugees in Turkey, and Lebanon. This extensive network allows donors to choose the “Where Most Needed” option, empowering the organization to allocate resources based on real-time needs assessments.
This ensures that your sacrifice reaches families in the most vulnerable situations, bringing both spiritual fulfillment and tangible aid. The promise of transparency, reliability, and Shariah compliance makes Al Qulub Trust a trusted partner in fulfilling your Qurbani obligation.
Knowing when Qurbani 2026 falls and understanding the important dates and deadlines is essential for every practicing Muslim. Eid al-Adha is expected to begin on Wednesday, May 27. By donating early through trusted organizations like Al Qulub Trust, you ensure that Islamic principles perform your sacrifice and reach those most in need. The spiritual, social, and humanitarian impact of Qurbani cannot be overstated. It is a sacred act of devotion that brings communities together, revives a foundational Sunnah, and provides relief to countless individuals worldwide. Make your Qurbani count in 2026 by acting early, staying informed, and giving where it is needed most.
When does Qurbani start in 2026?
Qurbani begins on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, which is the 10th of Dhul Hijjah. The sacrifice must be performed between May 27 and May 29, 2026.
Can I perform Qurbani after May 30, 2026?
No, Qurbani must be completed within the three Days of Tashreeq. Performing it after this period is not valid.
Is early Qurbani donation better?
Yes, donating early ensures your Qurbani is fulfilled correctly and reaches those in need on time, especially when done through a charity like Al Qulub Trust.
What is the Day of Arafat in 2026?
The Day of Arafat will fall on Tuesday, May 26, 2026. It is a significant day of fasting and reflection before Eid al-Adha.
When is Eid al-Adha in 2026?
Eid al-Adha is expected to start on Wednesday, May 27, and continue through Friday, may 30, 2026.
How is Qurbani meat distributed?
Three portions of the meat are set aside: one for the donor’s family, one for friends and family, and one for the underprivileged.
What if I miss giving Qurbani during the correct dates?
If you miss the three days, your Qurbani is not valid. Donors are advised to donate as early as possible to avoid this.
Which countries receive Qurbani meat from Al Qulub Trust?
Countries include Pakistan, Yemen, India, Mali, Niger, and others based on the “Where Most Needed” strategy.
Related: Dhul Qadah: The Sacred Month of Preparation and Peace
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