The first of Muharram: How is the Islamic new year celebrated around the world?

Sunday, July 7, marks the Islamic New Year for more than two billion Muslims around the world. The occasion, also known as Hijiri New Year, is observed on the first day of Muharram, the first month in the Islamic calendar.

The celebration marks the anniversary of the Hijra, the migration of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina, which established the first Muslim community and signifies the beginning of the calendar.

The celebrations and observances of the Islamic New Year can vary significantly across different cultures and countries, reflecting local traditions and religious practices.

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The first of Muharram: How is the Islamic new year celebrated around the world?

Many Muslims throughout the world observe the holiday by attending special prayers at mosques. Religious leaders may give sermons reflecting on the significance of the new year and the lessons from the migration of the Prophet Muhammad.

Reading and reciting verses from the Quran is a common practice as a way to seek blessings and guidance for the new year.

Some Muslims choose to fast on the day of the Islamic New Year and also on the 10th day of Muharram, which is known as the Day of Ashura.

These are general practices observed by many across the globe, but there are some variations depending on the country.

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Saudi Arabia

As the birthplace of Islam, Saudi Arabia celebrates the Hijri New Year is with solemnity and religious reflection. Public celebrations are minimal, focusing more on private worship and prayer. People also send each other new year’s wishes and greetings. In Jeddah, they have a tradition of having a glass of milk in the morning so that the coming year will become pure and white, and something green for lunch to represent a bountiful year.

Indonesia

The Islamic New Year is a public holiday in some parts of Indonesia. The nation with the largest Muslim population marks the occasion with religious sermons, prayers, and in some areas, cultural performances and parades reflecting local traditions.

Muslim Communities

In countries where Muslims are a minority population such as the United States, Canada, and the UK, the Islamic New Year is usually celebrated with community prayers in mosques, educational events, and family gatherings. Islamic centers and mosques may hold special programs to educate the community about the significance of the day.