Srinagar, June 6: The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia declared that the first day of Dhul Hijjah will be observed on Friday, June 7, following the sighting of the crescent moon on Thursday evening.
“Arafat Day falls on Saturday, June 15, while Sunday, June 16 will be the first day of Eid-ul-Adha,” Gulf News quoted the Saudi Supreme Court as saying.
Thus, Friday, June 7, marks the commencement of Dhul al-Hijjah, initiating the Hajj pilgrimage season for this year.
The 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, which falls on June 16, will be celebrated as the first day of Eid-ul-Adha. Notably, Arafat Day, occurring on the ninth day of Dhul Hijjah is scheduled for June 15.
The sighting of the crescent moon signifies the start of Dhul Hijjah, the Islamic month during which the Hajj pilgrimage is performed, followed by the observance of Eid-ul-Adha.
The celebration of Eid-ul-Adha begins on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah.
Arafat Day, which is observed on the ninth day of Dhul Hijjah, holds significant religious importance. Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is a pilgrimage to Makkah in Saudi Arabia that every Muslim must undertake at least once in their lifetime, provided they are physically and financially capable.