NAIROBI, KENYA – Kenyans are set to observe Friday, June 6th, 2025, as a public holiday in celebration of Eid Al Adha, one of the most significant festivals in the Islamic calendar. This confirmation follows the Supreme Court of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s official sighting of the Dhul Hajj 1446H Crescent on Tuesday, May 27th, 2025.
Following the sighting, the Chief Kadhi confirmed that Wednesday, May 28th, marks the first day of Dhul Hajj 1446H. This sets the stage for Arafah Day on Thursday, June 5th, with Eid Al Adha officially falling on Friday, June 6th, 2025. Muslims worldwide awaited the moon sighting, which signals the commencement of Dhul Hijjah, a sacred month culminating in Eid Al Adha on its 10th day.
Eid Al Adha, often referred to as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is one of two major Eid festivals celebrated by Muslims globally, occurring approximately two months after Eid Al Fitr. The Arabic word “Adha” itself means “sacrifice,” stemming from “duha,” meaning “light” or “illumination.”
The holiday commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham’s) profound act of devotion and willingness to sacrifice his son in submission to Allah’s will. According to tradition, just before Ibrahim carried out the sacrifice, God intervened, providing a lamb to be sacrificed in his son’s stead. This pivotal event is why the festival is known for its emphasis on sacrifice.
The observance of Eid Al Adha typically begins with Muslims attending special prayers at the Mosque. A central ritual involves the offering of a lamb as a sacrifice, with the meat traditionally shared among family members and, significantly, with those less fortunate, embodying the spirit of charity and community.
The ninth day of Dhul Hijjah, the day before Eid Al Adha, is known as Arafah Day, considered one of the holiest days for Muslims. Eid Al Adha also signifies the conclusion of the Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia, undertaken by millions of Muslims each year.
The upcoming public holiday provides an opportunity for all Kenyans to reflect on the values of devotion, sacrifice, and community spirit that Eid Al Adha represents.
