Saudi Arabia to celebrate Eid-ul-Azha on 6 June

Saudi Arabia announced that 28 May (Wednesday) will mark the first day of Dhu Al Hijjah, as the crescent moon was sighted in the Kingdom on Tuesday evening.

Accordingly, Eid-ul-Azha 2025 will be observed on 6 June (Friday), as it always falls on the 10th day of Dhu Al Hijjah. And, the Arafat Day will be observed on 5 June.

What is Eid-ul-Azha?

Muslims perform the annual Hajj pilgrimage during the Islamic month of Dhu Al Hijjah which culminates in celebrating Eid-ul-Azha on the 10th day of Hajj rituals.

Eid-ul-Azha or the ‘Feast of Sacrifice,’ is celebrated throughout the Muslim world as a commemoration of Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham's) willingness to sacrifice everything for God.

The festival falls on the 10th day of Dhu Al Hijjah, the twelfth and final month in the Islamic calendar.

Eid-ul-Azha is a time of celebration when Muslims gather for prayers at the mosque, visit family and friends, exchange gifts, and enjoy feasts.

It's a time of charitable acts, remembrance, and community. However, the exact practices can vary from country to country.

What is Arafat Day?

The Day of Arafat is an important Islamic observance that takes place on the ninth of Dhu Al Hijjah, the day before Eid-ul-Azha. It marks the second day of the Hajj pilgrimage in Makkah, where Muslim pilgrims gather at Mount Arafat and the Plain of Arafat.

It is from this site that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) delivered one of his final sermons during the last year of his life.

For Muslims who are not participating in Hajj, Arafat Day is a significant day of fasting and spiritual reflection. Although fasting on this day is not obligatory, it is highly recommended for those not performing the pilgrimage.