Dhul-Hijjah Crescent Sets Hajj and Eid Dates

A wave of joy swept through the global Muslim community following the official sighting of the Dhul-Hijjah crescent moon, marking Monday, May 18th, as the start of the holy month. Saudi Arabian authorities and religious councils worldwide confirmed the sighting, aligning the calendar so that all Islamic nations will celebrate Eid al-Adha together on Wednesday, May 27th. This highly anticipated announcement solidifies the schedule for millions of pilgrims currently in the holy lands, officially setting the pivotal Day of Arafat for Tuesday, May 26th. Although high humidity obscured the moon over Mecca, clear sightings across countries like Türkiye, Pakistan, and Indonesia prompted eager pilgrims to share photos and celebrate the unified holiday timeline.