The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has officially confirmed the sighting of the crescent moon marking the beginning of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, which is the 12th and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
This significant announcement was made on Tuesday by Haramain, a reputable Saudi-based Islamic news platform, through their official page on X (formerly Twitter). As a result, Wednesday, May 28, 2025, has been declared as the first day of Dhul Hijjah.
Dhul Hijjah is one of the most sacred months in Islam, highly revered for hosting the annual Hajj pilgrimage, one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Muslims from across the globe travel to Mecca during this period to perform the spiritual rites of Hajj, following the traditions of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham).
Additionally, Dhul Hijjah is the month in which Eid-el-Adha—the Festival of Sacrifice—is celebrated. This major Islamic holiday commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's unwavering faith and willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God's command, an act which was divinely replaced with a ram.
As per the announcement made by Haramain, the Day of Arafat, which is regarded as the holiest day of Hajj and a day of immense spiritual significance for Muslims, will fall on Wednesday, June 5, 2025.
The celebration of Eid-el-Adha will then follow on Thursday, June 6, 2025. Muslims around the world will mark the day with special prayers, sermons, and the ritual sacrifice of animals, distributing portions of the meat to family, friends, and those in need.
This sacred period not only highlights important religious observances but also strengthens the spirit of unity, charity, and devotion among Muslims worldwide.