The Muslim lunar calendar, which has been followed for over 1,440 years, determines the date of the Islamic New Year, which is set to fall this week.


The Islamic calendar has a 30-year cycle, with 19 years of 354 days and 11 leap years of 355 days, therefore each year it falls on a different day on the Gregorian calendar.


The Islamic Calendar began counting years in the year 622.


This year's Islamic New Year will begin on the evening of Friday, July 29.


In the lunar calendar, New Year's Day is known as the First of Muharram, and the date is chosen to correspond with the predicted first sighting of the lunar crescent following the New Moon in the month of Muharram.


History & Significance Of Muharram


Muharram's history extends back over 1440 years when Prophet Muhammed and his followers were compelled to flee Mecca for Medina on the first day of Muharram in 622 AD.


According to folklore, Muhammad was barred from preaching Islam in Mecca. The day of Ashura is held on the 10th of Muharram to commemorate the death of Imam Hussain, the son of Hazrat Ali and the Prophet's grandson. On the day of Ashura in 680 AD, he was martyred at the Battle of Karbala.


Muharram is distinct from other Islamic festivals in that it is a month of grief and prayer with no festivities.


This month is very significant for Shia Muslims. While Shia Muslims mourn Hussain's death by forming a chain and beating themselves, a practise known as Tatbir or Qama Zani, Sunni Muslims spend their day fasting and singing "Ya Hussain" or "Ya Ali."


Quotes For Islamic New Year



  • Let us thank Allah today and every day for all of his goodness toward us. Have a wonderful year.

  • In this life and the next, may we all become Allah's favourite creatures. Happy Hijri year!

  • We must remember that the true Hijrah today is to turn away from the evil that Allah and His Messenger prohibit.

  • May Allah provide you the courage to live justly and protect you from all bad influences. Happy Hijri New Year to you and your family.

  • As Muharram approaches, I give you all my love and prayers. May Allah keep you safe from any harm.


How To Wish Islamic New Year


'Kul aam wa anatom bekhayr' is a traditional greeting that refers to 'Every year, I wish you well.'


If someone wishes you a Happy New Year, you can respond with 'wa anta bekhayr,' which translates as 'and I also wish you well.'