Saudi Arabia announced Sunday evening that the crescent moon marking the start of Dhul Hijjah had been sighted. With the new moon visible, the Kingdom declared Monday (18 May), as the first day of the holy month.
Authorities confirmed that Eid‑ul‑Adha will be celebrated on 27 May, following Arafah Day on 26 May, reports Khaleej Times.
Officials confirmed that Arafah Day, the most significant day of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, will be observed on 26 May, corresponding to the 9th of Dhul Hijjah. Eid‑ul‑Adha, Islam’s festival of sacrifice, will follow on 27 May, marking the 10th of Dhul Hijjah.
Several Muslim‑majority countries have aligned their calendars with Saudi Arabia. Malaysia and Indonesia announced Sunday evening that Dhul Hijjah will begin 18 May, placing Eid‑ul‑Adha on 27 May.
Tunisia was the first to officially declare the same dates, while Turkey, which relies on astronomical calculations rather than moon sighting, also confirmed 18 May as the start of Dhul Hijjah and 27 May for Eid‑ul‑Adha.
The synchronised announcements highlight the global significance of the lunar calendar in determining Islamic rituals, with millions of Muslims preparing for both the pilgrimage and the festival.
