The UAE Fatwa Council will coordinate a nationwide crescent moon sighting.
The UAE Council for Fatwa has announced that it will observe the crescent moon marking the beginning of Dhu Al Hijjah on the evening of Sunday, May 17, corresponding to 29 Dhu Al Qadah 1447 AH.
The council said the sighting process will be carried out in coordination with national observatories and specialised astronomy centres across the country, using advanced technologies and modern observation methods.
The observations will be carried out through several designated platforms, including the Al Khatm Astronomical Observatory in coordination with the International Astronomy Centre, the Dubai Sky Views Observatory in partnership with Dubai’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, and the Sharjah Astronomical Observatory in cooperation with the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology.
The sighting of the Dhu Al Hijjah crescent marks the beginning of the Islamic month during which Muslims perform the annual Hajj pilgrimage and celebrate Eid Al Adha.
Arafat Day falls on the ninth day of Dhu Al Hijjah, while the first day of Eid Al Adha is observed on the 10th day of the Islamic month.
