The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia has announced that the crescent moon of Dhu Al Hijjah was sighted on Thursday evening, marking Friday, June 7, 2024, as the first day of the Islamic month of Dhu Al Hijjah. This sighting officially kicks off the Hajj pilgrimage season for this year.
According to the Supreme Court’s statement, the critical religious observances for Muslims around the world will follow these dates:
Arafat Day will be on Saturday, June 15, 2024. This is the 9th day of Dhu Al Hijjah, a pivotal day for pilgrims during the Hajj pilgrimage, where they gather at the plain of Arafat for prayer and reflection.
Salah Day, also known as Eid Al Adha, will be observed on Sunday, June 16, 2024. This festival, known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is celebrated on the 10th day of Dhu Al Hijjah and is one of the most significant Islamic holidays, commemorating the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to God.
In contrast, Oman has announced that the crescent moon was not sighted in the Sultanate. Consequently, Oman will observe Friday, June 7, as the 30th of Dhu Al Qa’dah, and Saturday, June 8, 2024, as the first day of Dhu Al Hijjah. This leads to Eid Al Adha, or Salah Day, being celebrated in Oman on Monday, June 17, 2024.
The observance of Dhu Al Hijjah and the associated events mark a time of significant spiritual activities for Muslims globally, including the performance of Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, and the celebration of Eid Al Adha, which involves communal prayers, feasts, and acts of charity.
