When Is Muslim New Year? Islamic Calendar Explained
Last Updated on June 24, 2025
Are you wondering when is Muslim New Year and why it matters? Unlike the Gregorian calendar’s January 1st celebrations, the Islamic New Year begins quietly with deep spiritual meaning. Rooted in the Hijri calendar, it marks the beginning of the sacred month of Muharram — a time for reflection, prayer, and renewed faith among Muslims worldwide. Let’s explore when it falls, its significance, and how it’s observed across different cultures.
Introduction to the Muslim New Year
Every year, millions of Muslims around the world quietly mark the beginning of a new chapter in their spiritual calendar — the Muslim New Year. But unlike the Gregorian New Year filled with fireworks and countdowns, the Islamic New Year is rooted in reflection, reverence, and remembrance.
Understanding the Islamic Calendar
The Islamic or Hijri calendar is a lunar calendar consisting of 12 months based on the moon’s cycles. It’s used not just for religious dates but also for determining important observances like Ramadan, Hajj, and of course, the New Year.
What Is the Hijri Calendar Based On?
The calendar began with the migration (Hijra) of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. That pivotal moment in Islamic history became Year 1 for the Islamic world.
When Exactly Is the Muslim New Year?
Muslim New Year begins on the first day of the month of Muharram, which is the first month in the Islamic calendar. But since the Islamic year is about 10–12 days shorter than the Gregorian year, the date shifts annually.
The First Month: Muharram
Muharram is one of the four sacred months in Islam, and it’s considered highly virtuous. While the New Year day itself isn’t marked by grand celebrations, Muharram is rich in history and spiritual opportunity.
How the Date Changes Every Year
Unlike the fixed January 1st for the Gregorian New Year, the Islamic New Year moves backward each year. For example:
In 2024, it fell on July 7th
In 2025, it’s expected to be around June 26th (subject to moon sighting)
Comparing Islamic and Gregorian Calendars
The Gregorian calendar is solar-based with fixed dates, while the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, making its months rotate through seasons over time. This rotation adds a spiritual dynamic — you experience the same months under different worldly conditions.
Significance of the Muslim New Year
This isn’t just a new date. It’s a renewal of intention, a moment to reconnect with Allah, and to reflect on the Hijrah — a journey of faith, sacrifice, and trust in God.
Historical Importance of Muharram
It’s during this sacred month that many pivotal Islamic events occurred, and thus, it is treated with solemn respect, not festivity.
Key Events During Muharram
Day of Ashura
The 10th of Muharram, known as Ashura, is one of the most emotionally charged days for Muslims. It commemorates:
The salvation of Prophet Musa (Moses) and the Israelites
The martyrdom of Imam Hussain in Karbala (especially significant for Shia Muslims)
Significance for Sunni and Shia Muslims
Sunni Muslims often fast on this day as the Prophet ﷺ encouraged it. For Shia Muslims, it’s a deeply mournful time, marked by remembrance of Karbala.
Major Events That Happened on Ashura
Noah’s Ark resting on Mount Judi
Prophet Yusuf’s release from prison
The parting of the Red Sea
How Muslim New Year Is Celebrated
Unlike the parties and concerts seen during January 1st, the Muslim New Year is marked by:
Making Du’a
Fasting on Ashura
Self-reflection
Differences Across Cultures
In some countries like Indonesia, Egypt, and Pakistan, people may gather for lectures or distribute food, but these are cultural additions, not religious mandates.
Muslim New Year Around the World
Celebrations in the Middle East
In countries like Saudi Arabia or Kuwait, the New Year is observed with prayer and sermons.
Practices in South Asia and Africa
You may see community gatherings, food distribution, or special dhikr circles.
Observances in Western Countries
Muslims in the West may join virtual lectures, fast, or mark the day quietly with family.
Do Muslims Celebrate with Fireworks and Parties?
Nope! The Islamic New Year is a time of reflection, not entertainment. It’s more about looking inward than outward.
Islamic Teachings on New Year Celebrations
Most scholars agree: the New Year isn’t a festival, but a spiritual checkpoint. Acts encouraged include:
Fasting
Giving charity
Avoiding sin
Renewing intentions
Hijri vs Gregorian Calendar: What You Should Know
While many Muslims live by the Gregorian calendar for daily life, the Hijri calendar is vital for religious observance. Knowing Islamic dates helps keep spiritual priorities front and center.
Educational Importance: Teaching Kids About the New Year
Muslim children should learn that the New Year is a chance to grow spiritually. Islamic schools, including online platforms like Moddakir Academy, offer valuable resources to teach Islamic history and calendar awareness.
How to Observe the Muslim New Year Spiritually
Here’s how you can embrace it:
Recite du’as: Start the year with positive intention.
Fast on Ashura
Give to charity
Attend or listen to a New Year Khutbah or lecture
Misconceptions About Muslim New Year
It’s not like Western New Year celebrations. And no, there’s no command to greet everyone or throw parties — but it’s a good time to say a heartfelt prayer for your loved ones.
How Moddakir Academy Helps You Connect Spiritually
At Moddakir Academy, we believe knowledge fuels faith. Our live Qur’an and Islamic Studies classes for all ages help students:
Understand Islamic history
Learn the significance of sacred months
Reflect deeply on moments like the Hijrah
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned learner, Moddakir helps you walk through the Islamic calendar with meaning and purpose.
So, when is Muslim New Year? It’s more than a date — it’s a spiritual opportunity. As we step into another year on the Hijri calendar, take a moment to reflect, reconnect with your Creator, and set your heart on what truly matters. Let this new year be the start of a deeper, more meaningful journey.
Start your Hijri year with purpose — join Moddakir Academy and grow in faith today!
FAQs
1. When will the next Muslim New Year fall?
It’s expected to begin around June 26, 2025, based on moon sighting.
2. Is Muslim New Year a public holiday?
In some Muslim-majority countries, yes. But not universally.
3. What are the best acts of worship during Muharram?
Fasting, especially on Ashura, making du’a, and avoiding sin.
4. Is it okay to say Happy New Year in Islam?
There’s no harm in wishing someone well, but it’s not a sunnah.
5. How can Moddakir Academy help me learn more?
Moddakir offers live Islamic classes to help you understand the spiritual value of every Islamic event, including the New Year.
