Each year, the Islamic New Year begins on 1 Muharram. Unlike New Year celebrations in the Gregorian calendar, it is usually a quiet occasion of reflection. Behind it lies a calendar with a remarkable history. This guide explains the origins of the Hijri calendar and its months, with a countdown on our Days Until Islamic New Year (Muharram) page.
Why “Hijri”?
The calendar counts years from the Hijrah, the migration of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companions from Makkah to Madinah in 622 CE. The Hijrah marked the beginning of the first Muslim community and state in Madinah.
Who introduced it?
During the caliphate of Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA), a dating system was needed for official letters and records. After consultation, the companions chose the Hijrah as the starting point, and Muharram as the first month.
The twelve months
| # | Month | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Muharram | Sacred month; Ashura on the 10th |
| 2 | Safar | |
| 3 | Rabi ul Awal | 12th widely observed as Eid Milad un Nabi |
| 4 | Rabi ul Akhir | |
| 5 | Jumada al-Ula | |
| 6 | Jumada al-Akhirah | |
| 7 | Rajab | Sacred month |
| 8 | Shaban | 15th night: Shab-e-Barat |
| 9 | Ramadan | Month of fasting |
| 10 | Shawwal | Eid ul Fitr on the 1st |
| 11 | Dhul Qadah | Sacred month |
| 12 | Dhul Hijjah | Sacred month; Hajj and Eid ul Adha |
Four months, Muharram, Rajab, Dhul Qadah and Dhul Hijjah, are described as sacred.
A lunar calendar
Each month starts with the new crescent and lasts 29 or 30 days. The year is about 354 days, so Islamic dates move about 11 days earlier each Gregorian year. Read why Ramadan moves for more.
How the New Year is marked
There is no specific ritual for 1 Muharram. Many Muslims reflect on the lessons of the Hijrah: sacrifice, trust in Allah and building community. Muharram is also a time of mourning for many, remembering Karbala; see Days Until Ashura.
Converting dates
To convert any date between Hijri and Gregorian, use the Islamic Date Today (Hijri Converter) converter. For tips on reflection and planning, read Islamic New Year reflections.
Frequently asked questions
When does the Islamic New Year begin?
On 1 Muharram, after the moon is sighted.
Why is the Islamic calendar called Hijri?
It counts years from the Hijrah, the Prophet’s migration to Madinah in 622 CE.
Who introduced the Hijri calendar?
It was adopted during the caliphate of Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA).