Additionally, it stated that Eid-al-Adha festivities would take place on Wednesday, May 27.

Following the appearance of the crescent moon, the country formally declared Monday, May 18, 1447 AH, to be the first day of Dhul Hijjah.

The Supreme Court’s Crescent Sighting Department “reached the decision after reviewing testimonies submitted by witnesses regarding the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah crescent,” the court said in a statement.

For the services provided to pilgrims visiting the sacred places, the court prayed for King Salman bin Abdulaziz, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, as well as Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman.

Additionally, it “prayed for Allah to grant pilgrims ease and comfort in performing Hajj rites, and to preserve the security, stability, and prosperity of Saudi Arabia.”

“The crescent moon for Dhul Hijjah 1447 has been sighted in Saudi Arabia,” stated Haramain Info, the official account of the two holy mosques in the Arab nation, on X.

The holy month of Dhul Hijjah will then begin tonight, and on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, in shā Allah, Eid al-Adha will be celebrated. May Allah ﷻ grant safety to the Hujjāj.

Meanwhile, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, the President General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and Sultan of Sokoto, also proclaimed Monday, May 18, to be the first day of Dhul Hijjah.

One of the most important times in the Islamic calendar, when millions of Muslims worldwide make the yearly Hajj pilgrimage and get ready for Eid-al-Adha celebrations, has begun with the announcement.

Known as one of the most important times in Islam, Dhul Hijjah is the 12th and last month of the Islamic calendar.

Key spiritual occasions, such as the Day of Arafah and Eid-al-Adha celebrations, take place during this month of the Hajj journey.