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Every year millions of Muslims travel to Mecca to perform Hajj. Many families in Germany and Austria prepare for this journey months in advance. In this article you will find the expected dates for Hajj 2027, a short overview of the rites and practical tips.
When is Hajj 2027?
Hajj takes place in the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah. According to the UAE Astronomy Centre (Khaleej Times, 1 September 2026), the expected dates are:
| Event | Expected date 2027 |
|---|---|
| Start of Dhul Hijjah | 7 or 8 May 2027 |
| Day of Arafah | 15 or 16 May 2027 |
| Eid al-Adha | 16 or 17 May 2027 |
The exact date depends on the moon sighting and is confirmed by the Saudi authorities shortly before. If in doubt, ask your local mosque or your travel organiser.
Why does the date change every year?
The Islamic calendar follows the moon. A lunar year is about 11 days shorter than a solar year, so Hajj starts around 11 days earlier in the Gregorian calendar each year.
Hajj rites in brief
The pilgrimage days usually run from the 8th to the 12th or 13th of Dhul Hijjah. A simplified overview:
- Ihram: pilgrims enter the state of consecration. Men wear two unstitched white cloths.
- Mina: on the 8th of Dhul Hijjah pilgrims move to the tent city of Mina.
- Arafah: on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah pilgrims spend the day in prayer on the plain of Arafah. This day is considered the high point of Hajj.
- Muzdalifah: pilgrims spend the night in the open at Muzdalifah.
- Stoning, sacrifice and Eid: from the 10th of Dhul Hijjah come the symbolic stoning in Mina and Eid al-Adha.
- Tawaf: pilgrims circle the Kaaba in Mecca.
Your travel organiser and scholars on site will explain the exact rites and their order in detail.
Hajj and Umrah: the difference
| Hajj | Umrah | |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | Every year at a fixed time in Dhul Hijjah | Possible throughout the year |
| Length of rites | Several days | A few hours |
| Status | One of the five pillars of Islam | The lesser pilgrimage |
Preparing from Germany and Austria
- Plan early: Hajj places are limited. Many pilgrims book through a travel organiser or the official Saudi platform Nusuk.
- Visa and permits: the rules change regularly. Check current requirements directly with Nusuk or your travel organiser.
- Health: speak to your doctor in good time about the currently required vaccinations, for example against meningococcal disease.
- Physical preparation: the pilgrimage days are demanding and often hot. Good shoes, sun protection and rest are important.
Short packing list for pilgrims
- Ihram cloths (for men) and comfortable, loose clothing
- Comfortable sandals and shoes
- A pocket Quran for the journey
- A light tasbih for dhikr
- Sun protection, water bottle, power bank and copies of important documents
A gift for Hajj
Many families say goodbye to their pilgrims with a small gift or welcome them home with a keepsake of the journey. A Hajj Mubarak Quran stand with name is especially popular.
Discover all Umrah & Hajj gifts →
More ideas in our guide Umrah Mubarak: 10 thoughtful Umrah and Hajj gift ideas.
Frequently asked questions
When is Hajj 2027?
The Day of Arafah is expected on 15 or 16 May 2027 and Eid al-Adha on 16 or 17 May 2027. The exact date depends on the moon sighting.
How long does Hajj take?
The pilgrimage days themselves last about five to six days. Including travel and time in Mecca and Medina, many pilgrims are away for two to four weeks.
What do you say to pilgrims after Hajj?
"Hajj Mubarak", roughly "blessed Hajj", is common. Many also wish "Hajj mabrur", an accepted Hajj.
