News
20th May 2026
When is the Pilgrimage to Mecca?
Qurbani 2026 is expected to take place between the evening of Tuesday 26 May and Saturday 30 May 2026 in the UK, depending on the sighting of the moon. Muslims around the world will offer Qurbani during Eid al-Adha, one of the most sacred times in the Islamic calendar.
Because the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, the dates for Eid al-Adha and Qurbani change every year. The Islamic year is around 10–11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, meaning Islamic events move earlier each year.
For Muslims across the globe, Qurbani is a deeply meaningful act of worship that reflects sacrifice, compassion and obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى). It is also a powerful opportunity to support families facing poverty, hunger and crisis around the world.
What is Qurbani?
Qurbani, also known as Udhiya, is the sacred act of sacrificing livestock during Eid al-Adha in remembrance of the devotion and faith shown by Prophet Ibrahim (عليه السلام). When commanded by Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) to sacrifice his son, Prophet Ibrahim (عليه السلام) submitted wholeheartedly. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) replaced his son with a ram, and Muslims continue this tradition each year as an act of worship.
Qurbani is performed during Eid al-Adha and is considered highly important for eligible Muslims. The meat is typically divided into portions for family, friends and those most in need, ensuring vulnerable communities can also share in the blessings of Eid.
Through carefully managed distributions, Qurbani donations can provide nutritious meat to people who may rarely have access to it throughout the year.
When is Eid al-Adha in 2026?
Eid al-Adha 2026 is expected to begin on the evening of Tuesday 26 May 2026 in the UK, with celebrations continuing for several days. However, the exact date will depend on the official sighting of the moon.
Qurbani can be performed after the Eid prayer on the first day of Eid al-Adha and continues during the days that follow. Traditionally, the sacrifice can take place over three days after Eid begins.
As moon sightings vary between countries and Islamic authorities, Muslims are encouraged to check announcements closer to the time for confirmed local dates.
When should you give Qurbani?
It is always recommended to give your Qurbani as early as possible.
Donating early helps the team at Penny Appeal prepare effectively for the immense logistical effort involved in delivering Qurbani around the world. This includes:
- Sourcing healthy livestock responsibly
- Planning distributions in remote and vulnerable regions
- Ensuring meat reaches families on time during Eid
- Managing increasing global demand during the Qurbani period
By donating early, you can help ensure your Qurbani is carried out smoothly and reaches those who need it most without delays.
Early giving also gives you peace of mind that your obligation has been arranged ahead of Eid al-Adha.
Why give Qurbani through Penny Appeal?
Giving your Qurbani through Penny Appeal helps deliver vital support to vulnerable families across the globe during Eid al-Adha.
With years of experience managing international Qurbani programmes, Penny Appeal works to ensure donations are handled with care, dignity and transparency. Qurbani meat is distributed to families facing poverty, displacement, conflict and food insecurity, helping communities celebrate Eid with nourishment and hope.
By choosing Penny Appeal, your Qurbani can help reach some of the world’s most vulnerable people while fulfilling an important act of worship.
Donate your Qurbani today and help share the blessings of Eid with families in need around the world.
