Saudi Arabia has officially announced the sighting of the crescent moon, signifying the commencement of Dhul Hijjah, the 12th and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
According to an announcement shared on X (formerly Twitter) by Haramain Sharifain on Tuesday, Dhul Hijjah 1446 began on Wednesday, May 28, 2025.
The announcement outlined key dates for upcoming Islamic observances:
• “First day of Dhul Hijjah – Wednesday, 28th May 2025”
• “The Day of Arafah – Thursday, 5th June 2025”
• “Day of Eid Al Adha – Friday, 6th June 2025”
The Day of Arafah, scheduled for June 5, carries significant spiritual importance as it marks the climax of the Hajj pilgrimage, with pilgrims gathering at Mount Arafat. This is followed by Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, on June 6. Muslims globally observe Eid al-Adha to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham) devotion and willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah.
Haramain Sharifain also included a supplication commonly recited by pilgrims entering a state of ihram: “Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk, Labbayk la sharika laka Labbayk. Innal Hamda, Wannimata, Laka Wal-Mulk, La Sharika Lak.” This translates to: (“Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am, You have no partner, here I am. Verily, all praise, grace, and sovereignty belong to You, and You have no partner.”)
Last year, Saudi Arabia designated June 16, 2024, as Eid al-Adha.
This declaration allows Muslims worldwide to synchronize their preparations for this sacred period, which encompasses the Hajj pilgrimage, communal prayers, acts of charity, and the symbolic sacrifice of livestock.
