Saudi Arabia's Supreme Court has announced that the first day of the annual Haj pilgrimage will be on August 19 and Eid Al-Adha will fall on August 21. 

 

It said Sunday (Aug 12) will be the first day of the incoming month of Dhul Al-Hijjah for the year 1439 AH, a Saudi Press Agency statement said.

 

Already more than 1,221,400 pilgrims have arrived in the kingdom, an increase of 70,348 pilgrims compared to last Haj season, SPA said quoting Passports' Directorate statistics.

 

Meanwhile, UAE has announced that Eid al-Adha holiday for ministries and federal departments will begin on August 19 and last until August 23, with official work resuming on August 26.