As the Islamic world eagerly anticipates the upcoming Festival of Sacrifice Eid Al Adha 2024 preparations are underway for the traditional celebrations.

The sighting of the crescent moon this evening will determine the exact date of this significant event.

Eid Al Adha 2024, observed on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, marks the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage and commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah.

In key Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Jordan, Syria, and Iraq, as well as in the UK, US, and Canada, Muslims will look for the crescent moon tonight, June 6, 2024.

Should the moon be sighted, the month of Dhu al-Hijjah will commence on June 7, 2024, with Eid ul-Adha falling on Sunday, June 16, 2024.

However, if the crescent moon is not visible, Dhu al-Hijjah will begin on June 8, 2024, and Eid ul-Adha will be celebrated on Monday, June 17, 2024. This scenario will also see the Day of Arafat observed on June 16, 2024.

Regional observances

Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Jordan, Syria, Iraq, UK, US, and Canada:

Crescent Moon Sighting Date: June 6, 2024
Dhul Hijjah Start Date: June 7, 2024
Eid ul-Adha Date: June 16, 2024

India, Pakistan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Japan, Hong Kong, Sultanate of Brunei, and other South Asian nations:

Crescent Moon Sighting Date: June 7, 2024
Dhul Hijjah Start Date: June 8, 2024
Eid ul-Adha Date: June 17, 2024

Focus on Pakistan and India

In Pakistan, India, and other South Asian nations, Eid Al Adha 2024 is expected to be observed on June 17, 2024. While there is a slight possibility of the date shifting to June 18, 2024, current projections favour the earlier date.