UAE declares first day of Eid Al Adha 2025

Abu Dhabi: The Presidential Court has announced the official sighting of the crescent moon marking the beginning of the month of Dhu Al Hijjah for the Hijri year 1446, confirming that Wednesday, 28th May 2025, will be the first day of Dhu Al Hijjah. Consequently, Friday, 6th June 2025, corresponding to 10th Dhu Al Hijjah, will be the first day of Eid Al Adha. And, the Arafat Day will be observed on Thursday, June 5.

"On this occasion, we extend our warmest congratulations and best wishes to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai; Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates; His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court; the people of the UAE, and to the entire world. We pray to Almighty Allah to return this occasion upon our beloved nation and all with blessings, prosperity, and joy," the Presidential Court said in a statement.

Earlier in the evening, Saudi Arabia announced that the crescent has been sighted in the Kingdom.

Muslims perform the annual Hajj pilgrimage during the Islamic month of Dhu Al Hijjah which culminates in celebrating Eid Al Adha on the 10th day of Hajj rituals. 

Eid Al Adha or the 'Feast of Sacrifice, is celebrated throughout the Muslim world as a commemoration of Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham's) willingness to sacrifice everything for God.

The festival falls on the 10th day of Dhu Al Hijjah, the twelfth and final month in the Islamic calendar.

Eid Al Adha is a time of celebration where Muslims gather for prayers at the mosque, visit family and friends, exchange gifts, and enjoy feasts. It's a time of charitable acts, remembrance, and community. However, the exact practices can vary from country to country.

The Day of Arafat is an important Islamic observance that takes place on the ninth of Dhu Al Hijjah, the day before Eid Al Adha. It marks the second day of the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, where Muslim pilgrims gather at Mount Arafat and the Plain of Arafat. It is from this site that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) delivered one of his final sermons during the last year of his life.

For Muslims who are not participating in Hajj, Arafat Day is a significant day of fasting and spiritual reflection. Although fasting on this day is not obligatory, it is highly recommended for those not performing the pilgrimage.