Abu Dhabi, UAE – May 27, 2025 – The United Arab Emirates has officially announced that the first day of Eid Al Adha 2025 will fall on Friday, June 6th, following the successful sighting of the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon on Tuesday evening. This significant announcement was made by the UAE's Moon Sighting Committee, bringing immense joy and anticipation to Muslim communities across the nation.
Eid Al Adha 2025 in UAE Confirmed for June 6th After Moon Sighting
The sighting of the Dhul Hijjah moon ushers in the final and holiest month of the Islamic calendar, Dhul Hijjah, which is synonymous with the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca and culminates in the joyous occasion of Eid Al Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice.
A Crucial Sighting: Tradition Meets Technology
The UAE's Moon Sighting Committee, comprising esteemed scholars, astronomers, and government officials, convened after Maghrib (sunset) prayers on Tuesday to observe the skies. Their diligent efforts, supported by both traditional visual observation and advanced technological aids, confirmed the presence of the new crescent. In a remarkable celestial moment captured even before the official sighting, the Al Khatm Astronomical Observatory in Abu Dhabi had photographed the crescent moon in broad daylight on Monday, May 26th, showcasing the UAE's commitment to leveraging technology for precise astronomical observations. This blend of age-old tradition and modern innovation underscores the nation's meticulous approach to determining Islamic calendar dates.
With the crescent moon officially sighted, Wednesday, May 28th, marks the first day of Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH. Consequently, Arafat Day, the pivotal ninth day of Dhul Hijjah and the spiritual pinnacle of the Hajj pilgrimage, will be observed on Thursday, June 5th. Eid Al Adha then follows on the 10th day, commencing on Friday, June 6th, and is expected to last until Sunday, June 8th.
A Generous Public Holiday Ahead
The confirmed dates translate into a substantial public holiday for both public and private sector employees in the UAE. With Arafat Day on Thursday, June 5th, and Eid Al Adha extending until Sunday, June 8th, residents can look forward to a potential four-day weekend. Furthermore, with Eid Al Adha falling on a Friday, there's a strong possibility of an additional compensatory day, extending the break even further. This generous holiday period will allow families and friends to gather, perform religious duties, and partake in the festivities.
The Significance of Eid Al Adha
Eid Al Adha, often referred to as the "Feast of Sacrifice," holds profound spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide. It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's (Abraham's) unwavering devotion and willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail, in obedience to Allah's command. Before the ultimate sacrifice, Allah intervened and provided a ram as a substitute. This momentous event serves as a powerful reminder of faith, obedience, and selflessness.
During Eid Al Adha, Muslims engage in special congregational prayers, typically held in mosques or designated outdoor prayer grounds shortly after sunrise. Following the prayers, one of the central rituals is the 'Qurbani' – the sacrifice of livestock, usually a sheep, goat, cow, or camel. The meat from the sacrificed animal is then divided into three portions: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the less fortunate. This act of sharing embodies the values of compassion, generosity, and solidarity, reinforcing communal bonds and extending support to those in need.
Hajj Pilgrimage Underway
The commencement of Dhul Hijjah also signifies the beginning of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam. Millions of Muslims from around the globe converge in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, to perform a series of sacred rituals over several days. The Hajj, a deeply spiritual journey, is obligatory for every Muslim who is physically and financially able to undertake it at least once in their lifetime. The sighting
A Time for Reflection and Celebration
Across the UAE, preparations are already underway for the joyous celebrations. Homes will be adorned, special meals will be prepared, and families will gather to exchange greetings and gifts. The spirit of unity, generosity, and gratitude will permeate communities as Muslims embrace this auspicious occasion. Eid Al Adha is not merely a holiday but a profound spiritual experience that strengthens faith, fosters compassion, and reinforces the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood within the global Muslim community.
As the UAE and the wider Muslim world prepare to mark this significant occasion, the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah moon serves as a timely reminder of shared traditions, unwavering faith, and the enduring power of community.