When does Hajj take place?

Hajj occurs annually during the 8th to 12th of Dhul Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Because the Islamic calendar is approximately 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, Hajj dates shift earlier each year relative to the Western calendar. The exact Gregorian dates for each year’s Hajj are confirmed based on moon sighting. Planning typically begins several months in advance.