Salam and thank you for your question.

Initially, the stand of Arafah should not be a matter of conflict because the pilgrims stand united on the day of Arafah at the same time in the same day. However, whatever the reason may be, it is different in some countries. So how to deal with this situation.

Before I start, it is extremely important to note that we are accountable for our intentions. So when we intend to do good deeds purely to please Allah, Allah will reward us accordingly.

In your case, I advise you to fast on the 8th of Dhul Hijjah, which is the 9th of Dhul Hijjah or the day of Arafah in Makkah and the rest of the Muslim world including Muslims living in the West with the exception of few countries, such as Pakistan.

Now I don’t wish to advise you to fast the following day, 9th of Dhul Hijjah in Pakistan, because this will be the day of Eid for the rest of the Muslims, a day we are forbidden to fast on. At the same time, you need to keep unity within your community otherwise you will be looked at as a rebel.

In order to avoid fitnah, pretend that you are fasting on that day if everyone else around you is fasting. Then perform Eid the following day. It is still Eid since Eid extends over three days. It will actually be the second day of Eid but it is still Eid.

However, if you are unable to pretend then fast with the rest of your community in order to avoid disunity. This based on priority, which is unity, and on the general Islamic rule that says: “Necessity makes the forbidden lawful”. In Arabic, “Ad-daroora tubih-ul-fahzoor“.

What is important here is that you intend between you and Allah to fast on the day of Arafah regardless what day it is. Ask on that day for Allah’s forgiveness and for the unity of the Muslim Ummah.

I hope this helps answer your question.