Saudi Arabia, Oman, Turkiye and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced the sighting of the Zil Hajj moon on Sunday, and Eid ul Adha will be celebrated in these countries on May 27.
According to the announcement, Arafat Day will fall on May 26 and Eid ul Adha will be celebrated on May 27.
The hajj, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, involves a series of rituals in and around Mecca in western Saudi Arabia that take several days to complete.
It is one of the five pillars of Islam and must be performed at least once by all Muslims who have the means to do so.
After traveling from all over the world to the holiest city in Islam, the pilgrims will first perform the “tawaf”, that is, seven circles around the Holy Kaaba.
They will then head towards Mina, a valley surrounded by rugged mountains several kilometers from Mecca, where they will spend the night in air-conditioned tents.
Eid ul Adha, also known as the “Feast of Sacrifice,” commemorates the Quranic story of Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH)’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah, a test of faith that was divinely interrupted and replaced by a ram.
Additionally, the occasion is celebrated with prayers, family gatherings and charitable events, including the ritual sacrifice of cattle, the meat of which is distributed to family, friends and the underprivileged.
