People across the Middle East are likely to enjoy an extended weekend, as Eid al-Adha is projected to commence on Friday, 6 June, with Arafat Day expected to begin a day earlier on Thursday, 5 June, based on astronomical estimates.
The final dates of the Islamic celebration will be officially confirmed following moon sightings conducted by designated committees, including Saudi Arabia’s moon-sighting authority, closer to the time.
Ibrahim al-Jarwan, Chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Society, noted that the crescent moon of Dhul Hijjah is anticipated to be visible on the morning of Tuesday, 27 May.
Should this be confirmed, Wednesday, 28 May will mark the first day of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah.
Eid al-Adha, which falls on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, would then be observed on Friday, 6 June.
In the UAE, the Cabinet has already approved a public holiday for Arafat Day on 5 June, followed by a three-day break for Eid al-Adha – from 6 to 8 June – applicable to both public and private sector workers.
Eid al-Adha signifies the end of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca that sees the participation of millions of Muslims worldwide.
