Hijri New Year (Islamic New Year): What it means and how it’s observed

Hijri New Year — also called the Islamic New Year — marks the start of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Want to know when it happens, why it moves every year, and how people mark the day? This short guide gives clear, practical answers you can use whether you’re observing, reporting, or just curious.

When is Hijri New Year?

The Hijri calendar is lunar, so the year is about 354 or 355 days. That makes the Hijri New Year fall roughly 10–11 days earlier on the Gregorian calendar each year. Dates can differ by one day between countries because some places wait for the local crescent moon sighting while others use astronomical calculations.

So if you need the exact date, check with a local mosque, the national religious authority, or widely used calendars like Saudi Arabia’s Umm al-Qura (which uses calculations). For news teams, confirm the date with local community leaders the day before — it often depends on sighting reports late at night.

How people observe Hijri New Year

Hijri New Year is quieter than Eid festivals. Many Muslims use the day for reflection, prayer, and reading Quran. Some communities hold lectures or peaceful processions. For Shia Muslims, the first month of Muharram leads up to Ashura (day 10), which is marked with mourning rituals and public gatherings in some countries.

Public recognition varies across Africa. In countries with large Muslim populations, you may find official statements from leaders, community events, or a public holiday. In mixed communities, families often celebrate privately while mosques host special sermons on the Prophet’s Hijra — the migration from Mecca to Medina that the calendar commemorates.

Practical tips if you’re attending or reporting:

- Dress respectfully and follow local customs at mosques and gatherings. Simple, modest clothing is best.

- Ask permission before taking photos, especially at mourning rituals or private family events.

- Verify the date with at least two local sources before publishing. Moon-sighting disputes can change announcements late at night.

- If you’re covering public events, check for traffic or security notices; processions can affect local transport.

Want to mark the day personally? Try a quiet hour of reflection, a visit to a mosque for a sermon, or reading about the Hijra and its historical impact. If you work in media, angle your coverage on community stories: how families observe, local leaders’ messages, and any civic notices affecting services that day.

This tag page collects coverage, features, and practical updates about Hijri New Year across Africa on Continental Scout Daily. Bookmark local religious councils and reliable astronomy sources to stay accurate year after year.