Saudi Arabia has officially announced the sighting of the crescent moon signaling the start of Dhul Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar, which will begin on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. The announcement was made public on Tuesday by Haramain Sharifain via X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.
The statement outlined critical dates for Muslims observing the sacred period:
Start of Dhul Hijjah: May 28, 2025
Day of Arafah: June 5, 2025
Eid Al Adha (Sallah Day): June 6, 2025
The Day of Arafah is the most spiritually significant day during the Hajj pilgrimage, when millions of Muslims gather at Mount Arafat to pray for forgiveness and mercy. Eid Al Adha, celebrated worldwide, honors the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim and his willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command.
The announcement also included the traditional ihram supplication recited by pilgrims:
“Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk, Labbayk la sharika laka Labbayk. Innal Hamda, Wannimata, Laka Wal-Mulk, La Sharika Lak.”
This declaration helps Muslims worldwide synchronize their preparations for Hajj and Eid festivities, which include communal prayers, charity, and the ritual sacrifice of animals. Last year, Saudi Arabia declared June 16, 2024, as Sallah day, setting a precedent for such announcements.
