Al-Hijra (Islamic New Year) 2025 in the United Arab Emirates

Al-Hijra, or Islamic New Year, marks the beginning of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It is a time for reflection, prayer, and remembering the Prophet Muhammad's migration from Makkah to Madinah.

Al-Hijra (Islamic New Year): A Public Holiday?

Al-Hijra (Islamic New Year) is a public holiday in the United Arab Emirates. Most businesses, offices, and schools close for the day, allowing people to reflect, pray, and observe the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar.

Al-Hijra (Islamic New Year)

Al-Hijra marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar and the first day of Muharram, one of the four sacred months in Islam. It commemorates the Prophet Muhammad's migration (Hijra) from Makkah to Madinah, a key turning point in Islamic history that led to the foundation of the first Muslim community. This event symbolizes faith, sacrifice, and the start of a new chapter for Islam.

In the United Arab Emirates, Al-Hijra has long been observed as a religious and cultural occasion. The UAE government recognizes the day as a public holiday, allowing Muslims to reflect on the values of the Hijra and its relevance to their spiritual journey. While it is a quiet and reflective day, it remains an important moment in the Islamic calendar and holds deep historical and spiritual significance for people across the country.

Observance of Al-Hijra in the United Arab Emirates

Al-Hijra is observed in the UAE as a peaceful and spiritual occasion. Unlike other holidays that include public festivities, Islamic New Year is marked with reflection and prayer. Many people spend the day at home or visit mosques to hear sermons about the meaning of the Hijra. The focus is on personal growth, gratitude, and starting the new Islamic year with a clean heart and positive intentions.

Government offices, schools, and many businesses close for the day. Mosques may organize special gatherings where scholars speak about the lessons from the Prophet's migration, such as perseverance, unity, and trust in Allah. Families often take the opportunity to pray together, read the Quran, and discuss the importance of the Hijra in Islamic history. Social media and media outlets may also share messages of hope and renewal as part of the observance.

The Islamic New Year holds great importance in the UAE as it encourages Muslims to reflect on their spiritual path and renew their faith. Al-Hijra reminds people of the Prophet's courage and the value of starting anew with strong belief. In a fast-paced world, this day offers a calm and meaningful pause—encouraging people to look inward, show gratitude, and move forward with purpose and peace.

Al-Hijra (Islamic New Year) Observances