The United Arab Emirates (UAE) will observe the sky on the evening of Monday, May 27, 2025, to attempt to sight the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon, which will determine the start of the Islamic month and confirm the date for Eid al-Adha 2025.
According to an official statement, the UAE Moon Sighting Committee will meet after sunset to analyze moon visibility and announce whether Tuesday, May 28, will mark the beginning of Dhul Hijjah. If the moon is sighted, Eid al-Adha would fall on Friday, June 6, 2025.
Official Holiday to Be Confirmed
Public and private sector workers in the UAE are awaiting confirmation of the Eid holiday schedule. Traditionally, Eid al-Adha is observed with a four-day public holiday, beginning on the day of Arafat (the day before Eid) and continuing through the first two days of Eid celebrations.
Once the moon sighting decision is finalized, the UAE government will issue an official announcement regarding the holiday period.
Importance of Moon Sighting
In Islamic tradition, the start of lunar months is based on the physical sighting of the crescent moon, either with the naked eye or through telescopes. This practice plays a key role in determining the dates of religious observances, including Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha.
The UAE typically coordinates with neighboring countries such as Saudi Arabia to align the Islamic calendar, especially for Hajj-related observances.
Religious and Astronomical Coordination
Local observatories and Islamic authorities across the Gulf will also monitor moon visibility tonight. Astronomers have indicated that crescent visibility may be challenging in some parts of the region, depending on weather conditions and the moon’s position.
Regardless of the results, the official announcement will be made by the UAE Fatwa Council and the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments (GAIAE).
The sighting of the Dhul Hijjah moon will not only confirm the Eid holiday dates in the UAE but also align religious activities, travel, and community events across the country. An official update is expected by late Monday evening.
Source; Economy Middle East
