Eid Al Adha 2024: Saudi Arabia Calls Muslims to Sight Crescent Moon
Supreme Court Urges Muslims to Participate in Moon Sighting for Dhul-Hijjah

Saudi Arabia’s Call for Moon Sighting Ahead of Eid Al Adha 2024
Saudi Arabia has issued a directive calling upon Muslims within the Kingdom to actively participate in the sighting of the crescent moon of Dhu Al Hijjah on June 6, Thursday (29th of Dhu Al Qadda). This announcement, made by the Supreme Court of the Kingdom, is a customary practice to determine the beginning of the month of Dhul-Hijjah, a significant period in the Islamic calendar leading up to Eid Al Adha.
According to the Umm Al-Qura calendar, Muslims are urged to engage in moon sighting activities on the evening of June 6, 2024 AD (11/29/1445 AH). The Supreme Court’s statement emphasizes the importance of community involvement in this religious observance, encouraging Muslims across Saudi Arabia to report any sightings of the crescent moon.
Witnesses who spot the moon, whether with the naked eye or through binoculars, are instructed to promptly inform the nearest court and provide their testimony. Alternatively, designated centers are available to assist witnesses in reaching the nearest court for registration and verification purposes.
In the context of the Islamic calendar, the sighting of the moon holds profound significance as it marks the commencement of Eid Al Adha, one of the most anticipated public holidays in Saudi Arabia and other Islamic countries. This period is traditionally associated with gatherings of families and communities to celebrate and participate in religious rituals.
In the UAE, as in many other Islamic nations, the outcome of the moon sighting will determine the duration of the Eid Al Adha holiday. Depending on the official confirmation of the crescent moon, residents in the Emirates may anticipate a break of four to five days to observe this important occasion.
The annual tradition of moon sighting not only underscores the religious and cultural heritage of Islam but also highlights the unity and communal spirit among Muslims globally. It symbolizes adherence to religious traditions and fosters a sense of unity as believers come together to celebrate Eid Al Adha, reflecting the values of faith, community, and shared cultural practices.