What Is the Islamic Year Today? (Hijri Date & Meaning)
Last Updated on June 29, 2025
Ever wondered what the Islamic year today is and why it matters? You’re not alone! For Muslims around the world, knowing the current Hijri year is essential for religious practices, planning Islamic events, and understanding the history of Islam. At Moddakir Academy, we emphasize teaching the Islamic year today as part of a complete faith-based education. So, let’s dive into it!
Understanding the Islamic Calendar
What Is the Hijri Calendar?
The Hijri calendar, also known as the Islamic calendar, is a lunar calendar based on the phases of the moon. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which is solar-based, the Hijri calendar follows the cycles of the moon—each month starts with the sighting of the new crescent.
Lunar vs. Solar Calendars
Here’s the key difference:
The lunar year has 354 or 355 days.
The solar year (used in the Gregorian calendar) has about 365 days.
This means the Islamic year shifts by 10–12 days each year compared to the Gregorian calendar.
Who Started the Islamic Calendar?
The Islamic calendar began during the Khilafah of Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA), the second Caliph of Islam. The calendar was dated from the Hijrah—the migration of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ from Makkah to Madinah in 622 CE.
Today’s Islamic Year and Date
Current Hijri year Today
As of today, the Hijri year is 1446 AH (After Hijrah). The exact Islamic date varies based on your local moon sighting, but it typically matches the Um al-Qura calendar of Saudi Arabia.
How Is the Hijri year Calculated?
The year begins with the month of Muharram, and each month alternates between 29 and 30 days, based on moon sighting reports.
Why the Hijri year Changes Annually
Because it’s 354 days, the Hijri year moves backward in the Gregorian calendar. So Ramadan, for example, might fall in winter this year and in summer a decade from now!
Major Months in the Islamic Year
Muharram – The Sacred Beginning
It’s one of the four sacred months in Islam. Many Muslims fast on the 10th of Muharram (Ashura) to commemorate the victory of truth over falsehood.
Ramadan – The Month of Fasting
The 9th month, known for fasting, prayer, and charity. It’s the most spiritually charged time of the year.
Dhul-Hijjah – The Month of Hajj
The final month of the Islamic year, Dhul-Hijjah is home to Hajj and Eid al-Adha.
Historical Significance of the Hijri Year
The Hijrah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ
The year 622 CE marks the migration (Hijrah) from Makkah to Madinah. This wasn’t just a physical move—it was a spiritual and community rebirth for Muslims.
How Hijrah Became the Starting Point
Caliph Umar decided to start the Islamic calendar with the Hijrah, considering it the most significant turning point in the history of islam.
Schools, mosques, and families plan major events like:
Mawlid an-Nabi (Prophet’s birthday)
Laylat al-Qadr
Islamic study programs
For Education and Learning (Especially for Moddakir Academy)
At Moddakir Academy, we teach students the significance of each Islamic month, helping them connect with their heritage and plan their acts of worship.
Tools to Check the Islamic Date Today
Online Hijri calendar year
Websites like IslamicFinder or moonsighting.com offer daily Hijri dates based on your location.
Mosque Announcements
Most mosques announce the beginning of months like Ramadanor Shawwal after local moon sightings.
Hijri Apps for Your Smartphone
Apps like Muslim Pro or Hijri Calendar Pro notify you of the Islamic date every day—super convenient!
How the Islamic Year Is Celebrated
Observing the New Hijri Year
While not celebrated like January 1st, Muslims may reflect on:
Their deeds from the past year
Setting new spiritual goals
Cultural Traditions and Reflections
Some Muslim communities share food, read Dua for the new year, or host Islamic talks.
Spiritual Practices in Muharram
Fasting on 9th and 10th Muharram, making dhikr, and renewing one’s commitment to Allah.
Teaching Kids About the Hijri Year
Creative Learning Activities
Engage children with:
Hijri calendar posters
Coloring pages for Islamic months
Moon-sighting crafts
Role of Islamic Schools like Moddakir Academy
At Moddakir Academy, we integrate Hijri learning into daily lessons—making faith-based education fun and meaningful.
Understanding the Hijri year today isn’t just about tracking dates—it’s about staying in sync with your faith, honoring Islamic history, and living a spiritually conscious life. Whether you’re a student, parent, or teacher, keeping up with the Hijri calendar helps deepen your Islamic identity. Ready to start your journey? Moddakir Academy is here to guide you every step of the way! join us now !
FAQs
1. What Islamic year is it now?
As of today, it’s 1446 AH in the Islamic calendar.
2. How many days are in the Islamic year?
Usually, 354 or 355 days, depending on moon sightings.
3. Why is the Hijri year shorter?
Because it follows the lunar cycle, which is about 11 days shorter than the solar year.
4. What is the first month of the Hijri year?
Muharram is the first and one of the sacred months.
5. How can I follow the Hijri calendar daily?
Use Hijri calendar apps, mosque updates, or join platforms like Moddakir Academy that teach it actively.
