. Dhul-Hijjah 1445 crescent sighted, Islamic New Year calendar out
The crescent moon, signalling the start of Dhul-Hijjah 1445 AH-2024, was sighted in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) on Thursday, June 6.
Consequently, Friday, June 7, will mark the beginning of the holy month, and Eid Al Adha will be observed on Sunday, June 16.
This indicates that the Hajj pilgrimage for 1445 AH-2024 will commence on Friday, June 14, with the day of Arafah falling on Saturday, June 15.
It is noteworthy that the Supreme Court had called upon all Muslims across the Kingdom to observe the crescent moon for Dhul-Hijjah 1445 on the evening of Thursday, June 5.
Eid Al Adha, also known as Bakr Eid and Eid uz Zuha in the Indian subcontinent, is celebrated globally on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah. This month is one of the holiest in the Islamic calendar and commemorates the sacrifices of Prophet Ibrahim, his wife Hajar, and their son, Prophet Ismail.
Eid Al Adha, the second holiest festival for Muslims worldwide, coincides with the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Makkah.
The Hajj pilgrimage to Makkah is a mandatory religious duty for Muslims who are physically and financially capable, to be performed at least once in their lifetime.