The International Astronomical Centre has announced that the crescent moon marking the start of Dhu al-Hijjah 1446 AH will be observed on Tuesday, May 27, across the Islamic world.
Engineer Mohammad Shawkat Odeh, director of the Abu Dhabi-based centre, stated that the moon sighting will be possible using telescopes in parts of Central and Western Asia, as well as most of Africa and Europe. Additionally, it may be visible to the naked eye in many areas of the Americas.
In Saudi Arabia, the Supreme Court has called on Muslims throughout the Kingdom to observe the crescent moon of Dhu al-Hijjah on the evening of Tuesday, 29 Dhu al-Qi’dah 1446 AH.
In a recent statement, the Supreme Court urged anyone who sights the crescent moon, whether with the naked eye or through binoculars, to promptly report to the nearest court and submit their testimony.
The Supreme Court also expressed hope that those who are able to sight the moon will join the committees established in various regions and participate in this effort, which is beneficial for the Muslim community.
Read more: Eid al-Adha 2025 holiday in UAE: Expected dates revealed
Based on these astronomical predictions, Wednesday, May 28, is expected to be the first day of Dhu al-Hijjah, making Friday, June 6, the likely date for the first day of Eid al-Adha in most Islamic countries.
Festival of Sacrifice: A spiritual reminder
Eid al-Adha 2025 is a significant event in the UAE, marked by a four-day public holiday. This period brings Muslims together to celebrate their faith and engage in various religious observances.
The timing of Eid al-Adha is determined by the lunar cycle and the sighting of the crescent moon, which signals the start of a new lunar month in the Islamic calendar. In the UAE, a moon-sighting committee confirms the sighting. If the moon is seen, the following day is declared the first day of the new month, with Eid al-Adha celebrated on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah.
Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham) profound obedience to God, as he prepared to sacrifice his son Ismail (Ishmael). This occasion serves as a reminder of faith and obedience through spiritual self-sacrifice.
Islam has two major holidays: Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, and Eid al-Adha, which takes place after the annual Hajj pilgrimage. While Eid al-Adha is not directly related to Hajj, it occurs the day after its conclusion, lending it significant timing.
Eid al-Adha falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The specific date is dependent on the legitimate sighting of the moon following the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
