Saudi Arabia confirms crescent moon sighting, declares June 6 Eid-el-Kabir

Authorities in Saudi Arabia have confirmed the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah crescent, signalling that the Hajj pilgrimage will begin on June 4, with the Day of Arafah to be observed on June 5.

According to Arab News, the announcement came from the Supreme Court on Tuesday.

“Muslims who are not performing the pilgrimage this year will celebrate Eid-el-Kabir on June 6,” the report stated.

The Supreme Court had earlier called on Muslims across the Kingdom to observe the skies on Tuesday — the 29th of Dhu Al-Qa’dah — and promptly report any sightings of the crescent to the nearest court.

In celebration of the festival, the Kingdom has also declared a weeklong Eid holiday for workers in both the public and private sectors.