Prepare for another thrilling public holiday in the UAE as the Hijri New Year approaches in less than three weeks. Astronomical forecasts have confirmed that the new Hijri year, 1445 AH, will commence on Wednesday, July 19, granting residents and citizens a well-deserved day off.
Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Emirates Astronomical Society, revealed exciting insights into the Islamic calendar, enabling everyone to plan ahead. According to his calculations, the crescent of Muharram, the first month of the lunar year 1445, will emerge on July 17, 2023, signifying the beginning of the Islamic New Year and the month of Muharram on Wednesday, July 19, 2023.
But that's not all! Al Jarwan shared his predictions for other significant dates in the Islamic calendar, allowing individuals and businesses ample time to prepare. Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, is anticipated to commence on Monday, March 11, 2024, with Eid Al Fitr, the festive celebration marking its end, likely falling on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. Furthermore, Eid Al Adha, a significant Islamic festival, is forecasted to be observed on Monday, June 17, 2024, according to astronomical calculations.
The Islamic New Year also referred to as the Hijri New Year, carries profound religious and historical importance for Muslims worldwide. It symbolizes the commencement of a new lunar calendar year, which differs annually from the Gregorian calendar due to the shorter lunar year compared to the solar year. This special occasion commemorates the Hijra, the migration of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers from Mecca to Medina in the year 622.
Stay tuned and mark your calendars for this upcoming UAE public holiday extravaganza, celebrating the beginning of a new Islamic year and embracing the rich traditions and heritage it represents.