Islamic New Year begins: Thursday marks the first of Muharram

Thursday 26 June 2025 - 08:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Islamic New Year begins: Thursday marks the first of Muharram

Several Islamic nations, including Saudi Arabia, have declared Thursday as the beginning of the Islamic New Year, marking the first day of Muharram, the initial month of the Hijri calendar. The announcement followed the official sighting of the crescent moon, which determines the start of the lunar year.

The significance of the Hijri New Year

The term "Hijri" is derived from the Arabic word for "migration," commemorating the Prophet Mohammed’s historic migration from Mecca to Medina in 622 AD. This pivotal event established the Islamic calendar, with the year of the migration considered year 1 AH (After Hijra).

The Hijri New Year is a momentous occasion across the Arab and Muslim world, symbolizing renewal and reflection. In many countries, including the UAE, the event is commemorated with official holidays. This year, UAE citizens will enjoy a three-day weekend from Friday to Sunday to mark the beginning of the new year.

Subdued celebrations in Morocco

In contrast to other Islamic holidays such as Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha, the Islamic New Year is observed with modesty in Morocco. While the day is recognized as a public holiday, it is not widely celebrated with grand festivities or traditions.

Moroccan astronomers expect the crescent moon signaling the start of the new year to be visible on Thursday evening, which would officially mark Friday as the first day of Muharram in the country.