Saudi Arabia Announces June 16 As Eid Al-Adha Following Dhul Hijjah Crescent Sighting

Saudi Arabia has officially announced the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah crescent, marking the beginning of the 12th month in the Islamic lunar calendar.

The declaration, made on Thursday, signified the commencement of the holy month, with the Hajj pilgrimage for 1445 AH-2024 set to begin on Friday, June 14. Arafah Day, which precedes the Eid Al-Adha festival, will fall on Saturday, June 15.

In light of this development, Eid Al-Adha, the Muslim world’s biggest festival, will be observed on Sunday, June 16, 2024. The Saudi Supreme Court had earlier issued a call on Wednesday for all Muslims across the Kingdom to participate in the sighting of the crescent moon of the Arabic month of Dhu Al Hijjah. This collective effort aims to determine both the start of the new month and the day of the festival according to the Islamic calendar.

Eid Al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, holds significant importance in Islam. It falls on the 10th of Dhu Al Hijjah, commemorating the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. The festival is celebrated with prayers, feasts, and the sacrifice of animals, symbolising devotion and obedience to Allah.

Eid Al-Adha is the second major Islamic festival celebrated worldwide, following Eid-ul-Fitr. Muslims around the globe come together to observe this auspicious occasion, emphasising unity, compassion, and the spirit of sacrifice.