Following sightings of the crescent moon, the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia on Tuesday announced the first day of Muharram for the Islamic year 1445.
In examining reports about moon sightings, the court found no sufficient evidence that the crescent was spotted on the evening of Dhul Hijjah 29 (Monday, July 17), according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
The Supreme Court, based on this, decided to end Dhul Hijjah on Tuesday (July 18), according to the report.
Consequently, Wednesday, July 19, will be the first day of Muharram, marking the start of the Islamic new year 1445.
Islamic calendars are based on lunar cycles, as opposed to Gregorian calendars.
Earlier today, the Astronomy Centre shared an image of the Muharram crescent taken at 9.48am UAE time. It was spotted in the skies of Jordan and the UAE.
While tomorrow is the Islamic New Year, the holiday will be observed in the UAE on Friday, giving residents a three-day weekend. From Thursday, some Sharjah employees will enjoy a four-day holiday.
