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Saudi Arabia, Oman, Turkey, and the UAE announced on Sunday that they have sighted the Zil Hajj moon, indicating that Eid ul-Adha will be observed on May 27 in these nations. The announcement also states that Arafat Day falls on May 26, with the festival itself taking place the following day.
The Hajj pilgrimage, drawing millions each year, is among the largest religious gatherings globally and includes a series of rituals performed over several days in and around Mecca in western Saudi Arabia. It’s one of Islam’s five pillars and must be undertaken at least once in a lifetime by all Muslims who are physically and financially able.
Upon arriving in the holy city, pilgrims commence rituals by performing the tawaf — circling the Kaaba seven times. They then proceed to Mina, a valley surrounded by rugged mountains a few miles outside Mecca, where they spend the night in air-conditioned tents.
Eid ul-Adha, known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” commemorates the story from the Qur’an about Prophet Ibrahim’s (PBUH) willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah. The divine intervention replaced the son with a ram, symbolizing faith and obedience. The holiday is observed with prayers, family gatherings, and acts of charity, including sacrificing livestock. The meat from this sacrifice is typically shared among relatives, friends, and the less fortunate.




