The UAE will soon mark the beginning of a new Hijri year with a public holiday, so we decided to take a look at the history, significance, and traditions associated with the Islamic New Year
What’s that you say? Another public holiday? Well don’t mind if I do. If you’ve lived in this part of the world for a bit of time, you’ll know that our public holidays aren’t the same as the UK, Ireland, USA, or anywhere else. A lot are based on the Islamic calendar, and the upcoming one is no exception.
The Islamic New Year, also known as the Hijri New Year, marks the beginning of a new year in the Islamic calendar. It is one of the most important dates in the Islamic calendar and is observed by Muslims around the world. In the UAE, the occasion is recognised as a public holiday, giving people an opportunity to reflect on its historical and religious significance. Unlike many New Year celebrations around the world, the Islamic New Year is traditionally more serene, generally celebrated through reflection, prayer, and remembrance rather than large public festivities.
Why Does the Islamic Calendar Follow the Lunar Cycle?
The Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle, meaning that its months are determined by the phases of the moon. Each lunar month begins with the sighting of the new crescent moon, resulting in a calendar year that is approximately 354 or 355 days long. This makes the Islamic year around 10 to 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar year. As a result, Islamic dates move through the seasons over time, allowing important occasions such as Ramadan, Eid Al Fitr, Eid Al Adha, and the Islamic New Year to be observed at different times of the Gregorian year.
The End of the Islamic Year and the Hajj Pilgrimage
The Islamic year concludes with the month of Dhul Hijjah, one of the holiest months in Islam. During this period, millions of Muslims from around the world travel to Makkah to perform Hajj, the annual pilgrimage that is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Hajj takes place during specific days of Dhul Hijjah and is followed by the celebration of Eid Al Adha (the latest public holiday we just enjoyed). The conclusion of Hajj and the end of the final month of the Islamic calendar naturally lead into the beginning of a new Hijri year, creating a period of spiritual reflection and renewal for many Muslims.
The Significance of the Islamic New Year
The Islamic New Year commemorates the Hijrah, the migration of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) from Makkah to Madinah in 622 CE. This event marked a pivotal moment in Islamic history and became the starting point for the Islamic calendar. The first day of the new year falls on 1 Muharram, the opening month of the Islamic calendar. For Muslims, the occasion serves as a reminder of faith, perseverance, community, and the importance of new beginnings.
How Is the Islamic New Year Celebrated?
Unlike the Gregorian New Year on December 31st, which is often associated with fireworks, parties, concerts, and countdown celebrations, the Islamic New Year is generally observed in a quieter and more reflective manner. Many Muslims use the occasion for prayer, reading the Quran, spending time with family, and reflecting on the year that has passed. While customs may vary between countries and communities, the focus typically remains on spiritual contemplation rather than public festivities.
Wishing You a Blessed New Year
As the new Hijri year begins, many people exchange greetings such as “Hijri Mubarak,” wishing one another peace, health, and blessings for the year ahead. The occasion offers an opportunity to celebrate the values of compassion, gratitude, and renewal that are central to many faith traditions and communities around the world.
Looking Ahead to the New Hijri Year
The Islamic New Year remains an important occasion across the UAE and the wider Muslim world. As communities come together to mark the beginning of a new Hijri year, the holiday serves as a reminder of a rich history, enduring traditions, and the significance of reflection and renewal. For everyone across the UAE, and elsewhere in the world, we hope you enjoy the day and take time to celebrate the occasion in your own special way.
