As Dhul Hijjah draws near, you might be asking yourself a few important questions. When does it begin in 2025? What are the key dates for Hajj? When is Eid al-Adha? Should I be fasting during the first ten days?
If these thoughts have crossed your mind, you’re in the right place.
This guide will answer all your questions in a simple and straightforward way. Whether you’re preparing for Hajj, planning your Qurbani, or looking to take advantage of the spiritual rewards during this sacred month, we’ve gathered everything you need to know.
Let’s explore at Sabil Al-Quran the significance, the timeline, and the practices that make Dhul Hijjah one of the most meaningful months in the Islamic calendar.
When Is Dhul Hijjah 2025?
In 2025, the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah is expected to coincide with the month of May, based on astronomical predictions. While estimated timelines suggest that Dhul Hijjah will begin around Wednesday, May 28, and continue through June 25, it’s important to note that the precise start and end dates of this sacred month are determined through official moon sightings conducted by religious authorities in each country.
Muslims around the world eagerly await the official announcement from their local or national Islamic authorities to begin preparations for this spiritually significant period. Whether you’re planning to perform Hajj or observe the special days from home, keeping an eye on the moon sighting updates is essential to ensure your acts of worship align with the correct Islamic dates.
Here are the key dates within the 2025 Islamic (Hijri) calendar:
| Islamic Event | Gregorian Date (2025) | Hijri Date (1446 AH) |
|---|---|---|
| Start of Dhul Hijjah | Wednesday, 28 May | 1 Dhul Hijjah 1446 |
| Start of Hajj | Wednesday, 4 June | 8 Dhul Hijjah 1446 |
| Day of Arafah | Thursday, 5 June | 9 Dhul Hijjah 1446 |
| Eid al-Adha | Friday, 6 June | 10 Dhul Hijjah 1446 |
When Is Hajj in 2025?
In 2025, Hajj is expected to begin on Wednesday, 4 June, which corresponds to 8 Dhul Hijjah 1446 in the Islamic (Hijri) calendar. The pilgrimage will likely conclude on Monday, 9 June (13 Dhul Hijjah 1446).
Please note that these dates are based on astronomical calculations and may vary slightly depending on the official moon sightings in Saudi Arabia.
Has the Dhul Hijjah Moon Been Sighted?
Yes, the crescent moon marking the beginning of Dhul Hijjah has been officially sighted in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. On Thursday, June 6, 2024, Saudi authorities confirmed that their astronomical observatories successfully spotted the new moon, signaling the start of this sacred Islamic month.
Please note that moon sightings may vary by location, so some countries may announce the beginning of Dhul Hijjah on different dates depending on local observations.
What Are the First 10 Days of Dhul Hijjah?
The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are considered the most blessed days of the entire year, offering a unique opportunity for spiritual growth and reflection. These days are a second chance after the month of Ramadan to seek Allah’s mercy, earn rewards, and purify our hearts.
In short, these ten days are a sacred gift from Allah, and every believer has the chance to make the most of them, regardless of where they are in the world.
When Is Eid Al Hajj?
Eid al-Adha falls on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah. It is one of the two major Islamic holidays and is celebrated with the act of Qurbani (sacrifice) in remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) devotion to Allah.
On this day, fasting is strictly prohibited. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is reported to have said:
“The Prophet (SAW) used to fast on the first nine days of Dhul Hijjah, the day of Ashura, three days each month, the first Monday of the month, and two Thursdays.”
(Abu Dawood)
This shows that fasting during the first nine days is highly encouraged, but on the 10th day, Eid is a time of celebration, prayers, and sacrifice.
What Is Dhul Hijjah In Islam?
Dhul Hijjah is one of the most sacred and spiritually powerful months in the Islamic calendar. It carries deep meaning for Muslims around the world. It is the month that brings us Hajj, the Day of Arafah, and Eid al-Adha. But beyond these major events, it is also a deeply personal time. A time filled with opportunities to grow, seek forgiveness, and reconnect with Allah in a meaningful way.
What many people don’t realize is that the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are actually the best ten days of the entire year. Yes, even better than the days of Ramadan. SubhanAllah.
Why Is Dhul Hijjah a Sacred Month?
Dhul Hijjah is one of the four sacred months in Islam, and it holds a unique and elevated status in the hearts of believers. Much like the holy month of Ramadan, the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are filled with incredible blessings, spiritual opportunities, and chances to earn immense reward. These days are considered among the most sacred of the entire year, and they open a special door for anyone seeking closeness to Allah.
This is not just a symbolic period. It is backed by clear and powerful words from the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, who said:
“There are no days on which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari)
That means every good deed you do during these ten days is more valuable in the sight of Allah than at any other time of the year. Whether it’s prayer, fasting, giving charity, or simply remembering Allah with your heart and tongue, the rewards are multiplied in ways we can’t imagine.
Many of us finish Ramadan feeling like we could have done more. Maybe we wished we had prayed with more focus or given more in charity. Maybe the spiritual boost of Ramadan faded too quickly once it ended. If you’ve ever felt that way, Dhul Hijjah offers you another beautiful chance. Another season of mercy. Another opening to draw closer to Allah, to renew your intentions, and to fill your heart with faith.
The Power of Qurbani and the Spirit of Sacrifice
The most powerful moment of Dhul Hijjah comes on the tenth day. That is the day of Eid al-Adha, a celebration that honors the story of Prophet Ibrahim, peace be upon him. When he was asked to sacrifice his son, he was ready to obey without hesitation. His trust in Allah was complete. In the end, Allah replaced his son with a ram, rewarding Ibrahim’s sincerity and teaching us a lasting lesson in devotion and surrender.
To honor that legacy, Muslims who are able to do so offer Qurbani during Eid. It is not just a ritual. It is a heartfelt act of worship. The animal is sacrificed, and its meat is shared in three parts. One for your family, one for friends and neighbors, and one for those in need.
Through Qurbani, we remember that faith is not just personal. It is about giving. It is about looking beyond ourselves and reaching out to others. It is about making sure that our celebrations are shared with the poor, the hungry, and those who might otherwise go unnoticed.
What to Do in Dhul Hijjah?
Dhul Hijjah is a time for deep reflection, spiritual growth, and an abundance of opportunities to earn reward. It is a sacred month filled with moments of worship that bring us closer to Allah. Here’s a guide to some of the key acts of worship and good deeds to focus on during this blessed time:
- Perform Hajj
If you are able and it is within your means, performing Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and an extraordinary opportunity for spiritual cleansing and closeness to Allah. - Offer Qurbani (Sacrifice)
On Eid al-Adha, performing Qurbani by sacrificing an animal is a significant act of worship. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command. - Fasting
Fasting during Dhul Hijjah is highly recommended. While fasting the first nine days is particularly virtuous, many also choose to fast on the Day of Arafah, which is known to expiate sins from the past and the upcoming year. - Give in Charity
Charity is encouraged throughout Dhul Hijjah, and the reward for giving during this time is multiplied. Whether it is a large donation or small acts of kindness, every good deed counts. - Give Sadaqah (Voluntary Charity)
Alongside obligatory charity (zakat), sadaqah is an excellent way to purify your wealth and gain reward. Even a smile or a helping hand can be considered sadaqah. - Read the Quran
Dedicate extra time to reading the Quran during this blessed month. The words of Allah guide us, bring peace to our hearts, and increase our closeness to Him. - Recite Takbeer Tashreeq
After Eid prayers, Takbeer Tashreeq is recited. This is a declaration of the greatness of Allah, and it is a powerful reminder of our faith during the days of Dhul Hijjah. - Engage in Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah)
Dhikr, the constant remembrance of Allah, is one of the simplest yet most rewarding acts of worship. Use the days of Dhul Hijjah to engage in heartfelt dhikr, whether it’s through the recitation of Tasbeeh, Tahmeed, or simply calling on Allah’s name. - Fast on the Day of Arafah
The Day of Arafah, the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, is the best day of the year. Fasting on this day wipes away the sins of the previous and coming year, making it an incredibly significant act of worship. - Increase in Nawaafil Prayers (Optional Prayers)
The extra nawaafil (voluntary) prayers you perform during Dhul Hijjah bring you closer to Allah and earn you reward. These include regular prayers, Tahajjud, and any other additional acts of worship. - Pray Tahajjud
During the nights of Dhul Hijjah, take advantage of the blessed moments in the stillness of the night by performing Tahajjud—the night prayer. It is a time when Allah is closest to His creation, and our supplications are especially heard. - Repentance
Dhul Hijjah offers a special chance to turn to Allah in repentance. Sincerely seek forgiveness for any past wrongdoings, as these days are filled with mercy and the opportunity for sins to be wiped away. - Make Dua (Supplication)
Use this time to raise your hands and make sincere dua. Ask Allah for what is good for you in this world and the next. It is a month where prayers are accepted, especially during the Day of Arafah. - Practice Gratitude
Gratitude is an essential part of our worship. Use Dhul Hijjah to reflect on the countless blessings Allah has bestowed upon you. Thank Him for His mercy, guidance, and the opportunity to engage in acts of worship.
These are just a few ways to make the most of the sacred month of Dhul Hijjah. Embrace the opportunity to increase your worship, seek forgiveness, and prepare yourself spiritually for the upcoming year.
What Month is After Dhul Hijjah?
After Dhul Hijjah, the next month in the Islamic calendar is Muharram, which is the first month of the year. Muharram, along with Dhu al-Qa’dah and Dhu al-Hijjah, forms the three consecutive sacred months during which warfare is forbidden. These sacred months are a time for peace and reflection.
Additionally, Rajab, the 7th month, is also a single sacred month in which fighting is prohibited.
Is it Compulsory to Fast in Dhul Hijjah?
Fasting during the first nine days of Dhul Hijjah is not compulsory like the fasts of Ramadan, but it is highly recommended. These days are considered the most blessed of the entire Islamic year, and fasting during this time brings immense rewards.
It is also a Sunnah (tradition) of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to fast on these days. By following his example, believers have the opportunity to earn the special blessings and mercy of Allah during this sacred month.
Which Days to Fast in Dhul Hijjah?
It is highly recommended for Muslims to fast during the first nine days of Dhul Hijjah, as they are among the most blessed days of the year. Fasting during this time is a Sunnah that brings great reward and forgiveness of sins.
Particularly significant is fasting on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah, which is the Day of Arafah. This day holds immense virtue, and fasting on it expiates the sins of the past year and the year to come.
On the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, which is Eid al-Adha, fasting is prohibited, as it is a day of celebration and sacrifice.
When Can You Cut Nails in Dhul Hijjah?
If the beginning of Dhul Hijjah has been confirmed and a person intends to offer a Qurbani (sacrifice), it becomes haram (forbidden) for them to cut any hair, nails, or remove any part of their skin until after the sacrifice has been made. This is in accordance with the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, who instructed those intending to offer sacrifice to refrain from these actions during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah.
Is it Haram to Cut Hair During Dhul Hijjah?
Yes, it is haram (forbidden) to cut or remove any hair during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah if a person intends to offer a sacrifice. This applies to both cutting hair and nails. Once the Dhul Hijjah month begins and you plan to perform the sacrifice, you must refrain from cutting your hair or nails until after the sacrifice is completed.
Is Dhul Hijjah Better Than Ramadan?
The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are often referred to as a second chance after the blessed month of Ramadan, as they are considered the best ten days of the year. These days are filled with immense blessings, providing an opportunity for Muslims who are not performing Hajj to earn great rewards and spiritual benefits.
While Ramadan is the month of fasting, prayer, and deep reflection, the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah hold a unique status in terms of their special significance. In fact, they are regarded as an incredibly blessed time for worship and seeking forgiveness, making them a period of exceptional merit.
Allah (SWT) mentions the importance of these days in the Quran, specifically in Surah Al-Fajr, where He says:
وَالْفَجْرِ (1) وَلَيَالٍ عَشْرٍ (2)
“By the dawn, and by the ten nights…”
Al-Fajr (89:1-2)
These verses refer to the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah, emphasizing their great importance in the eyes of Allah.
Thus, while both Ramadan and the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are sacred and hold immense rewards, the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are considered superior for specific acts of worship, including fasting, charity, and seeking forgiveness. However, Ramadan holds a unique significance for its overall spiritual impact, being the month of the Quran and the Night of Decree (Laylat al-Qadr).
Ultimately, both periods provide Muslims with invaluable opportunities for spiritual renewal and closeness to Allah.
Dhul Hijjah is not just a time on the calendar; it’s a deeply spiritual season filled with opportunities for reflection, worship, and connection. Whether you’re performing Hajj, fasting, giving Qurbani, or simply striving to do good deeds, this month offers countless ways to strengthen your bond with Allah.
We hope this guide has helped answer your questions and prepare you for this blessed time. May your Dhul Hijjah be filled with peace, blessings, and acceptance.
Dhul Hijjah is a gift. These ten days are a gift. Let us make the most of them, with open hearts, sincere intentions, and a deep desire to grow closer to our Creator.