Estimated start: Sunset on June 26, 2025, beginning 1 Muharram 1447 AH, and continuing into June 27.
In the United Arab Emirates, June 27, 2025 has been officially declared a public holiday for both the private and public sectors.
what is the Islamic new year
The Islamic New Year, also called Hijri New Year or Muharram, marks the first day of the Islamic lunar calendar. It commemorates the Hijrah, Prophet Muhammad’s migration from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, which marked the start of the Hijri calendar.
Why Is Muharram Significant?
- It is one of the four sacred months in Islam, during which warfare is prohibited.
- A time for spiritual reflection, increased prayers, Quranic recitation, and charity.
- Ashura (10 Muharram) is observed differently:
- Sunni Muslims: voluntary fasting to honor Prophet Moses and Noah.
- Shia Muslims: mourning rituals, processions, and recitations honoring Imam Husayn’s martyrdom at Karbala.
Traditions & Observances
Common Practices Across the Muslim World
- Quiet reflection and renewal of intentions
- Voluntary fasting on the 9th–11th of Muharram
- Extra prayers, Quranic recitation, and charitable giving
- Community lectures and mosque gatherings sharing lessons of the Hijrah
Sunni vs. Shia Observances
| Community | Observance Highlights |
|---|---|
| Sunni | Fasting, gratitude for prophetic interventions (e.g., Moses, Noah) |
| Shia | Mourning ceremonies, passion plays, commemorative processions |
How to Observe the Islamic New Year
- Engage spiritually: extra prayers, Quran study, and dhikr.
- Fast voluntarily, including Ashura.
- Give charity, especially during Muharram.
- Reflect on the Hijrah, renewing faith, resilience, and community bonds.
- Attend local talks and community-focused events.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the Islamic New Year?
It marks the first day of Muharram in the Islamic lunar calendar, honoring Prophet Muhammad’s Hijrah and the start of the Hijri year.
Q2: When is it in 2025?
It begins at sunset on June 26 and continues into June 27—officially observed in the UAE on June 27.
Q3: Why is Muharram sacred?
It’s a sacred month prohibiting warfare, encouraging worship, fasting, and charitable acts, and it contains the significant day of Ashura.
Q4: Should I fast on Ashura?
Fasting on Ashura is encouraged and is a recommended Sunnah practice.
Q5: How do Sunni and Shia practices differ?
Sunnis fast and reflect on prophetic events, while Shias engage in mourning rituals for Imam Husayn’s martyrdom.
Final Thoughts
The Islamic New Year is a time of spiritual renewal, reflecting on the Hijrah, and intentional personal growth. It emphasizes devotion and introspection rather than festivity. By providing clear headings, practical guidance, and robust SEO structure, this article is optimized to excel in search for phrases like “Islamic New Year 2025,” “Muharram traditions,” and “Hijri New Year fasting.”
