Authorities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have confirmed the sighting of a new crescent moon, signalling the commencement of Dhul Hijjah, the 12th month in the Islamic calendar.
A message shared yesterday by Haramain, a Saudi-based news platform, via X indicated that Wednesday would mark the first day of Dhul Hijjah. This month is significant because millions of Muslims worldwide travel to Makkah to perform the Hajj pilgrimage.
Over one million Muslims, including 60,000 Nigerian pilgrims, are expected to perform this year’s hajj rites in the Holy Land of Saudi Arabia.
According to Haramain’s announcement, June 5 has been designated as Arafat Day, followed by June 6, which will be celebrated as Eid al-Adha, the largest festival in the Islamic calendar.
Dhul Hijjah is revered as a sacred month, characterised by increased devotion, reflection, and acts of worship. The post concluded with an affirmation: “The crescent moon has been sighted in Saudi Arabia — Dhul Hijjah 1446 begins tonight.”
