The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia, Thursday announced that Friday, June 7 will mark the first day of Dhu Al Hijjah, as the crescent moon of Dhu Al Hijjah has been sighted in the kingdom on Thursday evening.

“The crescent moon has been sighted in Saudi Arabia. Dhul Hijah 1445 (2024) has commenced.

"Arafat Day falls on Saturday, June 15, while Sunday, June 16 will be the first day of Eid Al Adha," according to a Saudi Supreme Court statement.

Accordingly, Friday, June 7 is the first day of Dhu Al Hijjah, marking the start of the Hajj pilgrimage season this year.

The first day of Eid Al Adha falls on the 10th day of Dhu Al Hijjah. Arafat Day falls on the ninth day of Dhu Al Hijjah, which is on June 15.

The sighting of the moon marks the beginning of the Dhu Al Hijjah Islamic month in which the Hajj pilgrimage is performed followed by Eid Al Adha.

The first day of Eid Al Adha falls on the 10th day of Dhu Al Hijjah. Arafat Day falls on the ninth day of Dhu Al Hijjah. One of the five pillars of Islam, Hajj is the pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia, which every Muslim must make at least once in their lifetime if they are able to.