The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has officially announced the sighting of the Dhul-Hijja crescent on Thursday, signaling the commencement of the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijja, one of the most sacred months in the Islamic calendar. The sighting of the crescent heralds the observance of Eid Al-Adha on June 16.

Arafat Day, a significant day that precedes the major Muslim holiday, will be observed on June 15. The announcement was made following a statement from the Kingdom’s Supreme Court, which had urged residents to sight the moon on the evening of June 6 (Dhu al-Qi’dah 29, 1445 AH).

Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is marked by communal prayers, charitable activities, and the sacrificial offering of an animal, typically a sheep. This festival commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command.

The month of Dhul-Hijja is also notable for the annual Hajj pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam, where millions of Muslims from around the world gather in the holy city of Mecca. This pilgrimage is a profound spiritual journey and an essential practice of the Islamic faith, reflecting unity and equality among Muslims.

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The beginning of Dhul-Hijja and the celebrations of Eid al-Adha hold immense religious significance, drawing Muslims together in a time of reflection, worship, and community.