Saudi Arabia Confirms Sighting Of Dhul Hijjah Crescent, Eid-el-Adha Set For June 6

Authorities in Saudi Arabia have confirmed the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah crescent, officially marking the beginning of the 12th month in the Islamic calendar.

In an update shared Tuesday by Haramain, a Saudi-based Islamic news platform, the crescent moon was sighted, and Wednesday will be observed as the first day of Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH.

Dhul Hijjah is a significant month in Islam, during which Muslims from around the world gather in Makkah for the annual hajj pilgrimage. According to Haramain’s announcement, the Day of Arafat will fall on June 5, while Eid-el-Adha, the most important Islamic festival, will be celebrated on June 6.

“The crescent moon has been sighted in Saudi Arabia — Dhul Hijjah 1446 begins tonight,” the message read.
“Day of ‘Arafah: 5 June 2025; Eid Al-Adha: 6 June 2025. May Allāh accept the Hajj of the Hujjaj and our worship and allow us to make the most of these blessed days. Aameen.”

Earlier, on Monday, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, who also serves as the President General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), urged Muslims in Nigeria to look out for the new moon.

A statement signed by Sambo Wali Junaidu, chairman of the advisory committee on religious affairs of the Sultanate Council, called on Muslims to begin moon sighting on Tuesday, May 27, corresponding with the 29th of Zulqa’ida 1446 AH, and report any sightings to their nearest district heads.

“Muslims are therefore requested to start looking for the new moon of Zulhijjah on Tuesday and report its sighting to the nearest district heads for onwards communications to His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto and President General Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in Nigeria, Alhaji Mohammad Sa’d Abubakar III CFR mni,” the statement read.

Dhul Hijjah is revered as a sacred month, known for its emphasis on devotion, reflection, and acts of worship.