Saudi Arabia Confirms June 6 as Sallah Day

Saudi Arabia has officially declared the sighting of the crescent moon that marks the beginning of Dhul Hijjah, the 12th and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar, signaling the approach of Hajj and Eid al-Adha, the holiest period in the Islamic year.

According to a statement released on Tuesday by Haramain Sharifain via X (formerly Twitter), Dhul Hijjah 1446 will begin on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. This announcement finalizes the calendar for key Islamic observances tied to the annual pilgrimage to Mecca.

Key Dates:

·       First Day of Dhul Hijjah: Wednesday, 28 May 2025

·       Day of Arafah: Thursday, 5 June 2025

·       Eid al-Adha: Friday, 6 June 2025

Significance of the Days Ahead

The Day of Arafah, falling on 5 June, is the spiritual pinnacle of the Hajj pilgrimage, during which millions of pilgrims gather at Mount Arafat to engage in worship, reflection, and prayer. It is regarded as the most sacred day in Islam after the Day of Eid.

The following day, Eid al-Adha, known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. The day is marked by special prayers, the ritual slaughtering of animals, and widespread acts of charity.

A Time of Unity and Reflection

The sighting of the moon not only kicks off the sacred season of Hajj for pilgrims but also unites Muslims worldwide in observance, whether they are physically in Mecca or engaging in worship and sacrifice from afar. For non-pilgrims, the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are considered spiritually rich, with Muslims encouraged to fast, give alms, and intensify their devotion.

This year's pilgrimage and celebration come at a time of deepening global reflections on faith, sacrifice, and unity, especially against the backdrop of ongoing regional tensions and humanitarian concerns across the Muslim world.