Countries celebrating Eid Al Adha on June 6
Arafah Day observances set the stage for Hajj 2025
DUBAI: As the holy month of Dhul Hijjah begins, Muslim communities across the world eagerly await the sighting of the crescent moon that marks the start of this sacred month and sets the date for the festival of Eid Al Adha.
This year, several countries have confirmed the moon sighting on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, setting Eid Al Adha celebrations for Friday, June 6.
Moon sighting
The Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, with months beginning when the new crescent moon is sighted. Because the lunar calendar is approximately 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, significant Islamic dates shift earlier each year.
The sighting of the moon is therefore crucial in determining the beginning of Dhul Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar, during which the annual Hajj pilgrimage takes place and Eid Al Adha is celebrated on the 10th day.
Countries celebrating Eid Al Adha on June 6
Several nations have confirmed the crescent moon sighting on Tuesday, May 27, which means they will observe Eid Al Adha on Friday, June 6, 2025:
Indonesia
Indonesia’s Minister of Religion, Nasaruddin Umar, announced the crescent moon sighting at a press conference in Jakarta. The country will start Dhul Hijjah on Wednesday, May 28, with Eid Al Adha falling on June 6.
Oman
Authorities in Oman confirmed the moon sighting, marking May 28 as the first day of Dhul Hijjah. Oman will observe Arafah Day, one of the holiest days in Islam, on June 5, followed by Eid Al Adha on June 6.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia announced the crescent moon sighting on Tuesday, setting the first day of Dhul Hijjah on May 28. Eid Al Adha will be celebrated on June 6 across the country.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The UAE confirmed the moon sighting on Tuesday evening, with Dhul Hijjah beginning on May 28. The Day of Arafah will be observed on June 5, followed by Eid Al Adha on June 6. Preparations for the festival are underway across the Emirates as residents look forward to the celebrations.
What is Eid Al Adha?
Eid Al Adha, also known as the ‘Feast of Sacrifice’, commemorates the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), who was willing to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. The festival involves special prayers, acts of charity, family gatherings, and the sacrificial offering of animals. The meat is typically distributed among family, friends, and those in need, symbolising generosity and community spirit.
Arafah Day
The day before Eid Al Adha, known as Arafah Day, is observed on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah. It holds deep religious importance as pilgrims performing the Hajj gather on the plains of Arafat to pray and seek forgiveness. For Muslims not on pilgrimage, it is a recommended day of fasting and reflection. This year, Arafah Day falls on Thursday, June 5.