Wednesday Marks the Start of Dhul-Hijjah, With Pilgrims Gathering at Arafat on Thursday, June 5, 2025

The Supreme Court has officially announced that Wednesday, December 1, 1446, according to the Umm al-Qura calendar, corresponds to May 28, 2025, marking the beginning of the month of Dhu al-Hijjah for that year. Consequently, the Day of Arafah will be observed on Thursday, December 9, 1446, aligning with June 5, 2025, followed by the celebration of Eid al-Adha on the subsequent Friday.

This declaration was made public through a statement issued by the Supreme Court. The announcement commenced with a note of praise, stating, “All thanks are due to Allah alone, and blessings and peace be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and all his companions.” It then provided insights into the proceedings that took place earlier that day.

On the evening of Tuesday, the 29th of Dhu al-Qi’dah, 1446, which corresponds to May 27, 2025, the Court’s Moon Sighting Committee convened. The purpose of this meeting was to evaluate the testimonies regarding the sighting of the Dhu al-Hijjah moon for the current lunar year. Following a thorough review of all reports submitted to the committee, which included testimonies from multiple reliable witnesses who confirmed sighting the moon that evening, the committee reached its decision.

The context for this determination is rooted in a previous ruling by the Supreme Court, specifically Decision No. 194/H, dated October 29, 1446. This prior decision established that Tuesday, November 1, 1446, according to the Umm al-Qura calendar, corresponds to April 29, 2025, marking the start of the month of Dhu al-Qi’dah.

Given the witness testimonies confirming the Dhu al-Hijjah moon sighting, the committee’s conclusion was unanimous. They officially confirmed that Wednesday, December 1, 1446 (May 28, 2025), would be regarded as the first day of Dhu al-Hijjah. Following this declaration, the committee specified the dates for the significant events of the month: the Day of Arafah will fall on Thursday, December 9, 1446 (June 5, 2025), while Eid al-Adha will be celebrated on the subsequent Friday.

For the Muslim community, these dates hold immense significance as they precede one of the most important religious observances in the Islamic calendar, Hajj. The Day of Arafah, which occurs during Dhu al-Hijjah, is particularly revered as it represents a day of reflection, prayer, and supplication for Muslims worldwide. Following this day, Eid al-Adha, which celebrates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command, is a festive occasion marked by communal prayers, feasting, charity, and the symbolic sacrifice of livestock.

This announcement marks an essential moment for Muslims preparing for the Hajj pilgrimage and related rituals. The Supreme Court’s decision underscores the importance of accurate lunar sightings and religious observance within the Islamic faith, reaffirming its role in aligning the lunar calender with significant religious practices.

In conclusion, this announcement provides clarity and anticipation for millions of Muslims who observe these practices. The dates set forth by the Supreme Court allow individuals and communities alike to prepare for these vital moments of faith and celebration, reinforcing the communal spirit and religious fidelity that defines the ummah (the global Muslim community). The meticulous attention to the lunar observation process exemplifies the commitment to maintain accuracy in timekeeping and adherence to Islamic traditions.