Mohamed Garba
June 6, 2025, is officially confirmed as Eid al-Adha (Sallah) for Muslims worldwide following the crucial moon sighting announcement from Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.
The Kingdom’s official Hajj and Umrah operator, Haramain Sharifain, declared via social media platform X that the crescent moon marking the start of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH had been sighted. This sighting sets the calendar for the sacred Hajj pilgrimage and the subsequent Festival of Sacrifice.
Key Dates Announced:
First Day of Dhul Hijjah: Wednesday, May 28, 2025
Day of Arafah: Thursday, June 5, 2025
Eid al-Adha (Sallah): Friday, June 6, 2025
The announcement provides critical clarity for an estimated 1.8 billion Muslims globally, allowing them to align their religious observances and preparations. The Day of Arafah on June 5th represents the pinnacle of the Hajj pilgrimage, where millions of pilgrims will gather on the plains of Mount Arafat for a day of intense prayer and supplication.
Eid al-Adha, known as “Sallah” in many regions including Nigeria, follows immediately after Arafah. It commemorates the profound faith and devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), who was willing to sacrifice his son Ismail (Ishmael) in obedience to Allah’s command. Allah ultimately provided a ram as a substitute.
Saudi Arabia’s role as the custodian of Islam’s holiest sites makes its moon sighting declaration highly influential for Muslims worldwide. While some countries and communities may base Eid dates on local moon sightings, the Saudi announcement is widely followed, ensuring a significant portion of the global Muslim community will observe Eid al-Adha on Friday, June 6, 2025.
