The first day of the Islamic month of Dhul al-Hijja begins tomorrow (Sunday), Oct. 6, Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court has announced after spotting the new moon tonight.

Because Eid Al Adha (festival of the sacrifice) falls on the 10th day of this month, that means the holiday officially begins on Tuesday, Oct. 15 – or technically, after sunset on Oct. 14.

Eid Al Adha coincides with Hajj, the annual pilgrimage that millions of Muslims make to Makkah and surrounding landmarks. It marks the day during Hajj that Muslims sacrifice an animal (sheep, goat, cow, camel) as something of an offering to God as the Prophet Abraham once did. The meat is then distributed amongst themselves, family and friends.

Qatar has yet to announce its official holiday schedule, but typically the private sector gets three days for Eid, and the public sector usually takes the week off. We’ll keep you posted when we learn more.

What are your plans over the break? Thoughts?

Credit: Photo by Omar Chatriwala