Saudi Arabia has officially announced Tuesday, May 26, 2026, as the Day of Arafat and Wednesday, May 27, 2026, as Eid-el-Adha, following the confirmed sighting of the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon.
The declaration was made by the Saudi Supreme Court after the moon was sighted on Sunday, marking the beginning of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah on Monday, May 18, 2026.
In its statement, the court said the Crescent Sighting Department verified testimonies from credible witnesses confirming the sighting of the new moon. It also offered prayers for King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, commending their continued service to pilgrims and the holy sites.
The court further prayed for Allah to grant pilgrims ease during the Hajj exercise and to preserve peace, security, and prosperity in the Kingdom.
The announcement was also confirmed by Haramain Info, the official social media handle associated with the two holy mosques, which stated that Eid-el-Adha will be observed on Wednesday, May 27, 2026.
Meanwhile, in Nigeria, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, had earlier declared Monday, May 18, 2026, as the first day of Dhul Hijjah in the country.
Dhul Hijjah is regarded as the final and one of the holiest months in the Islamic calendar. It includes the annual Hajj pilgrimage, the Day of Arafat, and the Eid-el-Adha celebrations observed by Muslims worldwide.
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