Saudi Arabia has announced the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah crescent, marking the beginning of the 12th month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The announcement was made on Thursday, indicating that Friday will be the first day of Dhul Hijjah.
As a result, the Hajj pilgrimage for 1445 AH (2024) will commence on Friday, June 14, with the Day of Arafah falling on Saturday, June 15. The Day of Arafah is a significant day in the Hajj pilgrimage, preceding the festival of Eid Al-Adha.
Eid Al-Adha, the biggest Islamic festival, will be observed on Sunday, June 16, 2024. This festival, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is celebrated by Muslims worldwide on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah. It is the second major Islamic festival after Eid-ul-Fitr.
The sighting of the crescent moon of Dhul Hijjah was encouraged by Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court, which had called on all Muslims across the Kingdom to participate in the observation. This practice helps determine the commencement of the new and final month of the Hijri calendar, as well as the precise day on which Eid Al-Adha will be celebrated.
