Makkah, May 18, 2026 Saudi Arabia has confirmed that Monday, May 18 marks the beginning of Dhul Hijjah 1447 AH, following verified sightings of the crescent moon.
The Kingdom’s Supreme Court announced that the Day of Arafat, the most significant day of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, will be observed on Tuesday, May 26, while Eid Al-Adha will follow on Wednesday, May 27.
According to the court, its crescent-sighting panel reached the decision after evaluating reports and testimonies confirming the appearance of the new moon.
The court also offered prayers for King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, acknowledging their efforts in serving pilgrims and maintaining the holy sites.
It further prayed for a smooth and safe Hajj season, asking for divine protection over Saudi Arabia’s security, stability and prosperity.
In Nigeria, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, also announced Monday, May 18 as the start of Dhul Hijjah.
The announcement was conveyed in a statement issued by Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu, Wazirin Sokoto and Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs of the Sultanate Council.
The declaration signals the commencement of one of Islam’s most sacred periods, during which Muslims worldwide perform the Hajj pilgrimage and observe the Eid Al-Adha festival.
The Sultanate Council urged Muslims to use the holy month for prayers seeking peace, unity and national progress.
Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar, is regarded as one of the most spiritually significant periods in Islam, marked by the Hajj pilgrimage, the Day of Arafat and Eid celebrations.