Supreme Court: Sunday is the first of Dhu al-Qi'dah and Saturday completes the month of Shawwal
Details of the Supreme Court's announcement regarding the first of Dhu al-Qi'dah
The Crescent Sighting Department of the Supreme Court of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia issued an official statement announcing that the crescent moon of Dhu al-Qi'dah for the year 1447 AH was not sighted. Based on reports received from the courts and moon-sighting committees distributed throughout the Kingdom on the evening of Friday, the 29th of Shawwal 1447 AH, corresponding to April 17, 2026, it was decided that Saturday, April 18, 2026, would be the 30th and final day of Shawwal. Therefore, Sunday, April 19, 2026, will be the first day of Dhu al-Qi'dah 1447 AH, according to the Umm al-Qura calendar.
Crescent sighting mechanism in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia relies on the sighting of the new moon, either with the naked eye or using modern astronomical instruments, to determine the beginning of the Islamic months, in accordance with the Sunnah (Prophetic tradition). The Supreme Court receives testimonies from trusted observers and astronomical observatories throughout the Kingdom. These meticulous efforts aim to ensure the unity of Muslims in their fasting, holidays, and religious rites. The decisions of the Saudi Supreme Court are closely followed and of great interest both regionally and internationally, given their direct connection to major religious observances.
The religious and historical significance of the month of Dhu al-Qi'dah
The month of Dhu al-Qi'dah holds a special place in Islam, being the first of the four sacred months mentioned by God in the Holy Quran: Dhu al-Qi'dah, Dhu al-Hijjah, Muharram, and Rajab. Historically, it was named as such because the Arabs would refrain from fighting and travel during this month in preparation for the Hajj pilgrimage. The significance of this month lies in its role as the gateway to the fifth pillar of Islam, as pilgrims begin their spiritual and physical preparations for the great journey to the Holy Land.
Local impact and preparations for the Hajj season
Domestically, the announcement of the start of Dhu al-Qi'dah marks the beginning of the Hajj season for both government and private entities in Saudi Arabia to intensify their final preparations for welcoming pilgrims. In this context, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is working to finalize all arrangements for both domestic and international pilgrims. It is worth noting the reminders issued to citizens and residents regarding the deadlines for paying for domestic Hajj packages, which typically end in late Dhu al-Qi'dah. Those wishing to perform Hajj are therefore required to carefully monitor the Hijri dates to ensure they complete their registration procedures on time.
The role of astronomical observatories in supporting the legitimate sighting of the moon
Astronomical societies in the Kingdom, such as the Jeddah Astronomical Society, work alongside religious authorities to provide accurate scientific calculations regarding the timing of conjunctions and the times of sun and moonset. While astronomical calculations may indicate the possibility or impossibility of sighting the new moon, the final decision always rests with the Supreme Court, which skillfully balances modern science with direct religious observation. This reflects the Kingdom's unwavering commitment to upholding religious principles while making optimal use of modern technology.
