Saudi Arabia has officially declared Monday, May 18, as the first day of Dhul Hijjah 1447 AH, following the sighting of the crescent moon.

Saudi’s Supreme Court also announced that Standing at Arafat, which marks the climax of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, would take place on Tuesday, May 26.

It said that Eid Al Adha celebrations would be held the following day, Wednesday Mayn 27.

According to a statement by the court, the Crescent Sighting Department of the Supreme Court reached the decision after reviewing testimonies submitted by witnesses regarding the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah crescent.

The court prayed for Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, for the services rendered to pilgrims visiting the holy sites.

It also prayed for Allah to grant pilgrims ease and comfort in performing the hajj rites and to preserve the security, stability, and prosperity of Saudi Arabia.

Meanwhile, in Nigeria, the Sultan of Sokoto and president general of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, also declared Monday, May 18, as the first day of Dhul Hijjah.

The declaration was contained in a statement issued by the Wazirin Sokoto and chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council Sokoto, Sambo Wali Junaidu.

The announcement marks the beginning of one of the most significant periods in the Islamic calendar, during which millions of Muslims worldwide perform the annual Hajj pilgrimage and prepare for Eid al-Adha celebrations.

The sultanate council also urged Muslims in Nigeria and beyond to use the sacred month to pray for peace, unity, and progress in the country.

Dhul Hijjah is the 12th and final month of the Islamic calendar, renowned as one of the most sacred periods in Islam.

It is the month of the Hajj pilgrimage and features key spiritual events, including the Day of Arafah and Eid al-Adha.

(NAN)