Saudi Arabia has announced the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah crescent, marking the start of the 12th Islamic month. 

The announcement was made on Thursday, indicating that tomorrow, Saturday, June 8 will begin the holy month. 

Consequently, the Hajj pilgrimage for 1445 AH-2024 will start on Friday, June 14, with the day of Arafah on Saturday, June 15.

This means Eid Al-Adha, the largest Islamic festival, will be observed on Sunday, June 16, 2024. 

Arafat Day, which precedes Eid Al-Adha, will be on June 15.

Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court had previously called on all Muslims in the Kingdom to participate in sighting the crescent moon of Dhu Al Hijjah to determine the start of the new month and the date of the festival on the Islamic calendar.

Eid Al-Adha, celebrated on the 10th of Dhu Al Hijjah, is the second major Islamic festival after Eid-ul-Fitr and is observed by Muslims worldwide.