Published Date: 2025-05-12 13:08:38 Updated At: 2025-05-12 13:08:38

Dates of Arafat Day and Eid al-Adha 2025, and Official Holiday Schedule in Egypt

As the 2025 Hajj season approaches, Muslims in Egypt and across the Islamic world are increasingly interested in the dates of Arafat Day and Eid al-Adha, as well as the official public holiday schedule during this significant religious occasion.

Arafat Day 2025 – Astronomical Prediction
According to astronomical calculations by the International Astronomy Center, Arafat Day is expected to fall on Thursday, June 5, 2025, corresponding to the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah 1446 AH. This day is considered the most important pillar of the Hajj, during which pilgrims stand on Mount Arafat from sunrise to sunset in a deeply spiritual scene filled with prayer and supplication.

The Virtue of Fasting on Arafat Day
Millions of Muslims around the world observe fasting on Arafat Day due to its immense spiritual reward, as it is believed to expiate the sins of the previous year and the year to come, according to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Eid al-Adha 2025 – Expected Date
Eid al-Adha is anticipated to begin on Friday, June 6, 2025, which is the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah. The celebration lasts for several days, during which Muslims perform the ritual sacrifice and distribute meat to the poor and needy.

Expected Public Holidays in Egypt
The Egyptian government is expected to announce an official holiday period starting from Thursday, June 5 (Arafat Day) until Monday, June 9, 2025, covering Arafat Day and the three days of Eid. This extended holiday provides an opportunity for rest, family gatherings, or short getaways, especially as it coincides with the start of summer.

Official Moon Sighting to Confirm Final Dates
Despite reliance on astronomical predictions, the official start of Dhul-Hijjah—and thus Arafat Day and Eid al-Adha—will be determined by the official moon sighting. Egypt's Dar Al-Ifta will observe the crescent moon on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, to announce the beginning of the Hijri month, while Saudi Arabia’s official moon sighting authorities will conduct their own observations at the same time, as the kingdom follows the lunar calendar to determine the Hajj dates.