Saudi Arabia has officially announced the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon, marking the beginning of the 12th and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
According to Haramain Sharifain, a prominent Saudi-based Islamic news platform, the new month will commence today, Wednesday.
The sighting sets the stage for key Islamic observances that follow in the month of Dhul Hijjah, including the Day of Arafah on Thursday, June 5, and Eid-el-Adha (Sallah) on Friday, June 6.
The Day of Arafah is the spiritual peak of the Hajj pilgrimage, during which pilgrims gather at Mount Arafat in a powerful act of worship and reflection. This is followed by Eid-el-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, which commemorates the unwavering faith and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), who was willing to sacrifice his son in submission to God’s command.
Muslims around the world will join in the celebration through communal prayers, acts of charity, and the symbolic sacrifice of livestock. The declaration of Eid on June 6 allows for global alignment in religious preparations and observances during this sacred time.
This year’s announcement follows the 2024 declaration of Sallah on June 16, and once again underscores the importance of Dhul Hijjah as a time of heightened devotion, reflection, and unity among Muslims globally.
