The crescent moon of Dhul Hijjah 1445 was sighted in Abu Dhabi on Friday, June 7, marking the beginning of the Islamic month and signaling the upcoming Eid Al Adha celebrations. The UAE’s Astronomy Centre shared an image of the faint crescent, captured by the Al-Khatim Astronomical Observatory at 10am UAE time (6am GMT), in a social media post.
Public Holidays for Eid Al Adha
As per the government’s list of public holidays, residents in the UAE will enjoy a one-day holiday for Arafah Day, followed by three days off . Muslims worldwide celebrate this Islamic festival, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, with special prayers and the ritual slaughter of livestock. It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah.
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Crescent Moon Sightings Across the Region
Islamic countries determine the start of Dhul Hijjah and the celebration of Eid Al Adha through local moon sightings. The crescent moon, indicating the start of Dhul Hijjah, was spotted in Saudi Arabia on Thursday, June 6. Following the sighting, the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia announced, “Friday is the beginning of the month of Dhul Hijjah, and the standing at Arafat will be on Saturday, June 15, 2024.”
Variations in Observance Dates
In contrast, Oman did not spot the crescent moon on Thursday evening. Consequently, Oman will observe Monday, June 17, as the first day of Eid Al Adha. These variations in moon sightings lead to different start dates for the festival across the region.
Significance of Eid Al Adha
According to Islamic tradition, Allah commanded Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son. However, before the sacrifice took place, Allah provided a ram to be slaughtered instead. This act of devotion and obedience is celebrated by Muslims through the ritual slaughter of livestock such as goats, sheep, cows, or camels.