On Thursday, Saudi Arabia announced the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon, marking the beginning of the 12th month in the Islamic calendar.
Consequently, the holy month will commence tomorrow, Friday, June 14, 2024.
The Hajj pilgrimage for the year 1445 AH (2024) is set to start on June 14, with the Day of Arafah, a pivotal part of the pilgrimage, scheduled for Saturday, June 15. The significant Muslim festival, Eid al-Adha, will be celebrated on Sunday, June 16, 2024.
The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia had previously urged Muslims to observe the crescent moon of Dhul Hijjah. This observation is critical for determining the start of the new month and the exact date of the festival in the Islamic calendar.
Eid al-Adha, the most significant Islamic festival, falls on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah. It is the second major Islamic festival following Eid al-Fitr and is observed globally by Muslims. The festival commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command, and it is marked by special prayers, feasts, and the act of Qurbani (animal sacrifice).
This year’s observances are significant as they also mark the return to normalcy for many pilgrims and worshippers following the disruptions caused by the global pandemic in previous years.