Saudi Arabia and several Gulf countries have announced the sighting of the Muharram crescent moon, officially marking the start of the Islamic New Year 1447 Hijri on Thursday, June 26.
Religious authorities confirmed the moon sighting on Wednesday evening, heralding the beginning of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The Day of Ashura, observed on the 10th of Muharram, will fall on July 5 in Saudi Arabia.
The new Islamic year is being welcomed with various religious and cultural events across the region. In the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and other Arab nations, special programmes and gatherings have been organised to commemorate the occasion.
As part of the annual tradition, the ceremonial replacement of the Kiswa — the cloth covering the Kaaba in Makkah — also commenced with the arrival of the new year.
In Pakistan, the crescent for Muharram 1447 Hijri is expected to be visible on June 26, according to astronomical forecasts. The official announcement will be made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.
Source: Express Tribune
