Saudi Arabia officially confirmed the Zil Hajj moon sighting on Tuesday, marking the beginning of the Islamic month on May 28. As a result, the Day of Hajj (Arafat Day) will take place on Thursday, June 5, while Eidul Azha will be celebrated on Friday, June 6. The announcement follows observations reported by moon sighting committees across the Kingdom.
UAE Aligns with Saudi Arabia
The United Arab Emirates also announced the successful sighting of the crescent moon, aligning its calendar with Saudi Arabia. The UAE declared that May 28 would be the first day of Zil Hajj and confirmed Eidul Azha celebrations for June 6.
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Weather Initially Delayed Confirmation
Earlier in the day, dusty weather across several Gulf states had raised concerns over visibility. These conditions made it difficult to spot the Zil Hajj crescent, delaying official confirmations. Moon sightings are essential in Islamic tradition to determine the exact dates of key religious events, including Hajj and Eidul Azha.
Pakistan to Celebrate Eid a Day Later
In contrast, Pakistan’s Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee announced that the moon was not sighted within the country on Tuesday. Therefore, Pakistan will observe the first day of Zil Hajj on Thursday, May 29. Eidul Azha will fall on Saturday, June 7, one day later than in Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
Global Observance Follows Lunar Tradition
The Islamic calendar, being lunar, means dates of religious observances can vary across countries depending on local moon sightings. While Gulf countries often follow Saudi Arabia’s lead, others like Pakistan rely on their national moon sighting authorities. This year again reflects that pattern.
As the sacred month of Zil Hajj begins, millions of Muslims worldwide prepare for the pilgrimage and the upcoming festival of sacrifice, marking a spiritually significant time across the Islamic world.
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