The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia officially declared Thursday, June 6, 2025, the day for celebrating this year’s Eid-el-Kabir (Sallah).
This follows the sighting of the Dhul-Hijjah moon on Sunday evening, which marked the beginning of the Islamic month on which the Hajj pilgrimage and Eid-el-Kabir occur.
In Islamic culture, Eid-el-Kabir, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is commemorated on the 10th day of Dhul-Hijjah, the 12th and final month of the Islamic calendar. With the moon sighted, the first of Dhul-Hijjah falls on Monday, May 27, and therefore June 6 will be the 10th day.
Muslims across the globe observe Eid-el-Kabir in remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham) willingness to sacrifice his son at the command of God. The day is marked with additional prayers, sacrifice of animals, charity, and reunions with family members.
The declaration by Saudi Arabia also sets the date for this year’s Hajj rituals, to be celebrated within the Holy cities of Mecca and Medina by millions of Muslim pilgrims from all over the world.
Nigerian government, including Sultan of Sokoto, is expected to follow the Saudi Arabia announcement and declare the local date for Sallah in no time.
Preparations are already underway in the majority of countries, with stores becoming packed as food, rams, and celebration garments are bought by families.
