The Supreme Court officially announces the date of the first of Dhu al-Qi'dah 1447
The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia issued an urgent statement clarifying the details of the new moon sighting, officially determining the start of Dhu al-Qi'dah 1447 AH. These periodic announcements reflect the keenness of the wise leadership and religious authorities to ensure accuracy in determining the beginnings of the Islamic months, given their close connection to Islamic worship and rituals. The statement clarified that Saturday completes the month of Shawwal, and the new month begins on Sunday.
Details of the Supreme Court's statement regarding the first of Dhu al-Qi'dah 1447
The Crescent Sighting Committee of the Supreme Court reviewed the reports received from courts and astronomical observatories regarding the sighting of the crescent moon of Dhu al-Qi'dah 1447 AH, on the evening of Friday, the 29th of Shawwal 1447 AH, according to the Umm al-Qura calendar, corresponding to April 17, 2026. After reviewing the reports, the Committee issued Decision No. (206/H), which stated that the crescent moon was not sighted on the aforementioned evening. Therefore, the Crescent Sighting Committee determined that Saturday, April 18, 2026, would be the 30th and final day of Shawwal, and that Sunday, April 19, 2026, would be the first day of Dhu al-Qi'dah 1447 AH.
Crescent sighting mechanism in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia relies on a precise and reliable methodology for determining the beginnings of the Islamic months, combining pre-established astronomical calculations (the Umm al-Qura calendar) with direct, religiously sanctioned sightings. The Supreme Court typically calls upon all Muslims throughout the Kingdom to observe the crescent moon, either with the naked eye or using binoculars. Specialized astronomical observatories are located in several geographically suitable areas for observation, such as the Hawtat Sudair Observatory and the Shaqra Observatory, which include specialized committees of moon-sighters, astronomers, and representatives from government agencies. This combination of modern science and religious guidance ensures a high degree of accuracy in determining the months, a long-standing historical tradition maintained by the state to guarantee the unity of Muslims in their religious observances.
The religious and organizational significance of the sacred months and the Hajj season
The month of Dhu al-Qi'dah holds a special place in the Islamic calendar, being the first of the four sacred months, which God Almighty has honored and in which rewards are multiplied. Beyond this spiritual significance, this month marks the actual start of the final preparations for the Hajj season. As soon as the beginning of the month is announced, work intensifies across various governmental and private sectors in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to finalize preparations for receiving the pilgrims and preparing the holy sites.
The impact of advertising on the Islamic world
The impact of this announcement extends far beyond the Kingdom's borders, reaching the entire Muslim world. Millions of Muslims, and numerous Islamic committees across the Arab and Muslim world, are closely following the Saudi Supreme Court's pronouncements. This is because the final months of the Islamic calendar coincide with the Hajj pilgrimage, and the scheduling of Hajj groups, flights, and visas are all based on these precise dates, ensuring a smooth and safe experience for all pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land.
