The 1st of Dhul Hijjah 2025 is anticipated to fall on or around Wednesday, May 28, 2025, heralding the beginning of one of the most sacred months in the Islamic calendar.
This estimation, however, is contingent upon the sighting of the new crescent moon, a practice central to the determination of Islamic months.
Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Hijri calendar, holds immense significance for Muslims worldwide, primarily as it is the month during which the Hajj pilgrimage to Makkah takes place and the joyous festival of Eid al-Adha is celebrated.
As we look towards Dhul Hijjah 2025, a sense of spiritual anticipation and preparation begins to fill the hearts of Muslims globally.
The Significance of Dhul Hijjah
Dhul Hijjah, which translates to “Possessor of the Pilgrimage” in English, is one of the four sacred months in Islam, alongside Muharram, Rajab, and Dhu al-Qi’dah.
During these months, warfare is traditionally prohibited, and acts of worship and righteousness are highly encouraged and rewarded.
The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are particularly revered, considered by many scholars to be the best days of the year for performing good deeds.
The Quran itself alludes to the sanctity of these days in Surah Al-Fajr, where Allah says, “By the dawn; And [by] ten nights” (Quran 89:1-2).
While interpretations vary, many commentators believe these “ten nights” refer to the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah.
These initial days offer a profound opportunity for spiritual reflection, increased prayer, fasting (especially on the Day of Arafah), charity, and the remembrance of Allah.
For those not undertaking the Hajj pilgrimage, these days provide a chance to share in the spiritual blessings and draw closer to God.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of these days, saying, “There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.” (Bukhari)
The Hajj Pilgrimage in Dhul Hijjah 2025
The Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is a spiritual journey to the holy city of Makkah in Saudi Arabia that every able-bodied Muslim with the financial means is expected to undertake at least once in their lifetime.
The rituals of Hajj predominantly take place between the 8th and the 12th or 13th of Dhul Hijjah.
For Dhul Hijjah 2025, the Hajj is expected to commence on or around Wednesday, June 4, 2025, and conclude on or around Monday, June 9, 2025.
The Hajj is a deeply spiritual and transformative experience, symbolizing unity, equality, and submission to the will of Allah.
Pilgrims, clad in simple white garments known as Ihram, perform a series of rituals that retrace the footsteps of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his wife Hajar, as well as Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
These rituals include:
- Tawaf: Circumambulating the Kaaba, the black cubic structure at the center of the Grand Mosque in Makkah, seven times in a counterclockwise direction.
- Sa’i: Walking briskly between the hills of Safa and Marwa seven times, commemorating Hajar’s desperate search for water for her son, Ismail.
- Mina: Spending time in the tent city of Mina, engaging in prayer and reflection.
- The Day of Arafah (Yawm al-Arafah): This is the pinnacle of Hajj, occurring on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah. Pilgrims gather on the plains of Arafat, spending the day in supplication and seeking forgiveness from Allah. It is a day of immense spiritual significance, not only for those on Hajj but for Muslims worldwide, who are encouraged to fast on this day. In 2025, the Day of Arafah is expected to be on or around Thursday, June 5, 2025.
- Muzdalifah: After sunset on the Day of Arafah, pilgrims move to Muzdalifah, where they spend the night under the open sky and collect pebbles for the symbolic stoning ritual.
- Ramy al-Jamarat: The symbolic stoning of the pillars in Mina, representing the rejection of evil.
- Eid al-Adha: The Hajj culminates with the celebration of Eid al-Adha.
The Festival of Sacrifice in Dhul Hijjah 2025
Eid al-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is one of the two major holidays celebrated by Muslims worldwide. It falls on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah and continues for three to four days.
In 2025, Eid al-Adha is expected to begin on or around Friday, June 6, 2025, or Saturday, June 7, 2025, depending on the moon sighting.
Eid al-Adha commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail, in obedience to Allah’s command.
Just as Ibrahim was about to perform the sacrifice, Allah intervened and provided a ram to be sacrificed instead. This act symbolizes ultimate submission and faith in God.
On Eid al-Adha, Muslims around the world attend special congregational prayers in the morning. Those who can afford it perform the Qurbani (Udhiyah), the sacrifice of an animal (usually a sheep, goat, cow, or camel).
The meat from the sacrificed animal is typically divided into three parts: one-third for the family, one-third for relatives and friends, and one-third for the poor and needy.
This act of sharing emphasizes the importance of community, compassion, and caring for those less fortunate.
Eid al-Adha is a time of joy, feasting, gift-giving, and spending time with family and loved ones. It is a period of gratitude for Allah’s blessings and a reminder of the importance of faith and sacrifice.
Dhul Hijjah 2025 Holidays
The most significant holiday during Dhul Hijjah is undoubtedly Eid al-Adha. In Muslim-majority countries, Eid al-Adha is typically a public holiday, often lasting for several days.
- Dhul Hijjah 2025 Saudi Arabia: As the custodian of the two holy mosques and the host of the Hajj pilgrimage, Saudi Arabia observes an extended public holiday during Dhul Hijjah to facilitate the Hajj and allow people to celebrate Eid al-Adha. The exact dates of the public holidays will be announced by the Saudi government closer to the time, but they generally encompass the Day of Arafah and the days of Eid al-Adha. Businesses and government offices are typically closed during this period.
- Dhul Hijjah 2025 Holidays in Other Countries: Many other Muslim-majority countries, such as the United Arab Emirates, Pakistan, Indonesia, Malaysia, and others, also observe public holidays for Eid al-Adha. The duration of these holidays can vary from country to country. In countries with significant Muslim populations but where Islam is not the state religion, Eid al-Adha may be recognized as a public holiday in certain regions or for Muslim employees.
Dhul Hijjah 2025 in London
London, being a multicultural city with a large and vibrant Muslim community, will undoubtedly witness numerous activities and celebrations during Dhul Hijjah 2025. Mosques across the city will hold special prayers, lectures, and events in the lead-up to Eid al-Adha and during the festival itself.
Many community centers and organizations will also organize Eid fairs and gatherings, providing opportunities for families and friends to come together and celebrate.
Expect to see a festive atmosphere in areas with a high concentration of Muslims, with traditional food, clothing, and decorations readily available.
Many Muslims in London will also participate in Qurbani, either locally or through charitable organizations that facilitate sacrifices and distribute meat to those in need, both in the UK and abroad.
Understanding the Islamic Calendar 2025
The Islamic calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar, is a lunar calendar consisting of 12 months. Each month begins with the sighting of the new moon.
This reliance on lunar observation means that the Islamic calendar is approximately 10 to 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, the solar calendar used in most parts of the world.
As a result, Islamic months and festivals shift forward by about 10 to 11 days each year in relation to the Gregorian calendar.
This is why Dhul Hijjah 2025 will begin in late May, whereas in previous years it may have fallen in different months.
Understanding this lunar basis is crucial for anticipating and preparing for Islamic events.
Muharram 2025
Following Dhul Hijjah, the Islamic calendar transitions to the new year with the month of Muharram. Muharram 2025 is expected to begin on or around Friday, June 27, 2025.
Muharram is also one of the four sacred months in Islam.
The 10th day of Muharram, known as Ashura, holds particular significance for many Muslims, commemorating various historical and religious events, including the day Prophet Musa (Moses) and his followers were saved from the Pharaoh.
Preparing for Dhul Hijjah 2025
As Dhul Hijjah 2025 approaches, here are some ways you can prepare and make the most of this blessed month:
- Increase Your Worship: Dedicate more time to prayer, reading the Quran, and making Dhikr (remembrance of Allah).
- Fast: Consider fasting during the first nine days of Dhul Hijjah, especially on the Day of Arafah.
- Give Charity: Be generous with your wealth and support those in need.
- Reflect and Repent: Use this time for introspection, seeking forgiveness for past shortcomings, and making resolutions for self-improvement.
- Strengthen Family Ties: Connect with your family and loved ones, especially during Eid al-Adha.
- Learn More: Educate yourself about the significance of Dhul Hijjah, Hajj, and Eid al-Adha.
Eid-ul-Adha 2025 – FAQs
Basic Information
1. What date is Eid-ul-Adha in 2025?
Eid-ul-Adha 2025 is expected to be celebrated on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, based on astronomical calculations. The exact date will be confirmed closer to the event after moon sighting.
2. Is Eid-ul-Adha 2025 likely to fall on June 7 in Pakistan?
No, Eid-ul-Adha 2025 will not fall on June 7, 2025 in Pakistan or any other country. Based on Islamic lunar calendar projections, it is expected around June 18, 2025.
3. Is there two Ramadans in 2025?
No, there will be only one Ramadan in 2025, expected to begin around March 1, 2025, and end with Eid-ul-Fitr on March 31, 2025.
However, due to the lunar-solar calendar difference, some years may have two Ramadans over 33–34 months, but not within the same Gregorian year like 2025.
Dates of Eids in 2025
4. What are the dates of the two Eids in 2025?
In 2025, the two major Islamic festivals are expected to fall on:
- Eid-ul-Fitr 2025: Monday, March 31, 2025 (end of Ramadan)
- Eid-ul-Adha 2025: Wednesday, June 18, 2025
These dates are based on calculations and subject to official moon sightings.
Eid-ul-Adha Details
5. Has Eid-ul-Adha been officially confirmed for 2025?
Not yet. The exact date of Eid-ul-Adha depends on the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon, so it can only be officially confirmed a day or two before the event.
6. How long does Eid-ul-Adha last?
Eid-ul-Adha celebrations last for four days, from the 10th to the 13th of Dhul Hijjah. The first day is the main Eid day, and Qurbani can be performed during all four days.
7. How do you wish someone “Eid Mubarak” in 2025?
You can greet others with:
- “Eid Mubarak!”
- “Taqabbal Allahu minna wa minkum” (May Allah accept from us and from you)
- “Kullu ‘am wa antum bi khayr” (May every year find you in good health)
You can say this starting from the morning of Eid day (June 18, 2025).
Ramadan 2025 FAQs
8. When is Ramadan 2025?
Ramadan 2025 is expected to begin around Saturday, March 1, 2025, and will end with Eid-ul-Fitr on Monday, March 31, 2025 (subject to moon sighting).
9. How long is Ramadan 2025?
Ramadan lasts either 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon. In 2025, it will likely be 30 days, ending on March 31.
10. When should I stop eating during Ramadan 2025?
You should stop eating and drinking before Fajr time begins, which marks the start of the daily fast. Fajr times vary by location — check your local prayer schedule.
11. Can I eat at 7 am during Ramadan 2025?
It depends on your local Fajr time. If Fajr starts before 7 am, then eating after that time would break your fast. Always confirm your local Fajr prayer time.
12. Can Ramadan fall twice in a single year?
Yes, approximately every 33 years, Ramadan may occur twice in a span of 12–13 months due to the Islamic lunar calendar being about 11 days shorter than the Gregorian solar calendar.
However, in 2025, Ramadan will occur only once.
Miscellaneous
13. Will there ever be a year with three Eids?
No, there are only two Eids per year in Islam:
Some confusion arises when both Eids appear close together in a Gregorian calendar year, but there are never three Eids in any given year.
Embrace the Blessings of Dhul Hijjah
Dhul Hijjah 2025 presents a precious opportunity for spiritual growth, compassion, and community.
Whether you are embarking on the sacred journey of Hajj or observing from home, embrace the blessings of this holy month.
Engage in acts of worship, strengthen your connection with Allah, and extend kindness to those around you.
Share this article with your friends and family to help them prepare for Dhul Hijjah 2025 and its significant events. Let us all strive to make this a time of profound spiritual enrichment and shared joy.