Moon sighting: Eid Al Adha 2024 dates announced by Saudi Arabia

Authorities in Saudi Arabia confirmed the sighting of the crescent Moon, signalling the start of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah.

This announcement confirms the dates for Arafah Day and Eid Al Adha.

Key dates for Dhul Hijjah

The crescent Moon sighted on Thursday, June 6, marks the last day of the month of Dhul Qa’adah.

Consequently, Friday, June 7, becomes the first day of Dhul Hijjah.

Day of Arafah and Eid Al Adha

The Day of Arafah, recognised as the holiest day in Islam and observed one day before Eid Al Adha, will fall on Saturday, June 15, which is the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah.

This day is especially important for Muslims performing Hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca.

This means that Eid Al Adha, one of the most significant Islamic holidays, will be observed on Sunday, June 16, corresponding to the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah.

Public holidays in the UAE

For residents of the UAE, the government has announced public holidays in alignment with these dates. They will receive one day off for Arafah Day on June 15 and three days off for Eid Al Adha from June 16 to June 18 (Dhul Hijjah 10 to 12).

#UAE_Cabinet approves official holidays calendar for government and private sectors for year 2024 pic.twitter.com/HHtIQawNy8

— UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) November 21, 2023

Significance of Eid Al Adha

Eid Al Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, is celebrated with special prayers and the ritual slaughter of livestock, such as goats, sheep, cows, or camels. This act commemorates the Prophet Ibrahim’s test of faith and his willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God.

Start of Hajj

The beginning of Dhul Hijjah on June 7 also sets the stage for the commencement of Hajj.

The pilgrimage will start on Friday, June 14, the 8th day of Dhul Hijjah. Pilgrims will then observe Arafat Day on June 15, followed by the Eid Al Adha celebrations starting on June 16.

Official Moon sighting efforts

Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court had called upon Muslims in the kingdom to sight the crescent Moon on Thursday evening.

An official committee was designated to observe the moon at sunset, confirming the start of the new Islamic month and the associated religious observances.