Islamic New Year is also called Al Hijri Calendar. The calendar's name comes from the Arabic word Hijrah. It is a lunar calendar system that is used by Muslims around the world to track religious rituals and holidays. It begins in the month of Muharram which is the first month of the Hijri calendar. It is the first day of Muharram. It is the start of the Islamic year. With the new beginnings, it also reminds the historic migration of the Prophet Muhammad and his early followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE.
The Hijri Calendar
The Hijri calendar is lunar, so it moves about 11 days earlier each solar year. It uses 12 lunar months, and each month begins with the new moon sighting. It usually has 354 or 355 days. The date is tied to the lunar calendar and the sighting of the new moon. Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab formalized it.
When is the Hijri or Islamic New Year in 2026?
Hijri calendar has 12 months and their names are Muharram, Safar, Rabi' al-Awwal, Rabi' al-Thani, Jumada al-Awwal, Jumada al-Thani, Rajab, Sha'ban, Ramadan, Shawwal, Dhu al-Qa'dah and Dhu al-Hijjah.
The Hijra of Prophet Muhammad
Prophet Muhammad and the early Muslims migrated from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE to escape persecution. He left to escape persecution and to build the Muslim community in Medina. Abu Bakr accompanied him on the journey. They faced danger, persecution, and the stress of leaving home.
It changed Muslims from a persecuted group into an organized community. It gave Muslims a safe home. It also became the starting point of the Islamic era.
How Muslims Observe Al-Hijra
Many do not celebrate it like a party. They observe it quietly with prayer, family time, or reflection. People may pray, read Quran, give charity, visit family, and reflect on the year. Customs vary from country to country and from family to family.
Saudi Arabia uses moon sighting and often sets official dates through local Islamic authorities. In India, it is often observed quietly, and in some places it is a public holiday.
Lessons and Modern Relevance
You can learn patience, trust in God, sacrifice, and courage. Islam encourages repentance, prayer, good deeds, and a fresh start with a sincere heart. You can begin with gratitude, better habits, and a sincere plan to do more good.
Islamic New Year Greetings
You can say "Happy Hijri New Year" or a warm prayer for blessings and peace. Simple messages about peace, faith, and blessings feel natural and kind. A simple line like "Wishing you a blessed Hijri New Year" sounds polite and respectful. People often ask Allah for mercy, guidance, peace, and a better year.