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Join on Telegram Rabat – As the Islamic New Year, also known as the Hijri New Year, approaches, various countries have announced their plans and official holidays. This year, the first day of Muharram, marking the start of the new Islamic year 1446 AH, is expected to fall on Sunday, July 7 in several countries, according to astronomical calculations.
The official announcements regarding the exact day of the Islamic holiday will be made after the crescent moon has been sighted.
The UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has declared Sunday, July 7 as an official paid public holiday for all private sector establishments, Gulf News reported.
While the UAE has confirmed their holiday on July 7, Saudi Arabia is considering a longer break. Residents of the Kingdom might enjoy a holiday either on Friday, July 5, or Monday, July 8, though no official announcement has been made yet.
Egypt’s Dar Al-Ifta is expected to declare Saturday, July 6 as the last day of Dhu Al-Hijjah 1445 after sighting the crescent moon, Egypt Today reported. Based on these observations, the Islamic New Year is anticipated to commence on Sunday, July 7.
The Egyptian Prime Minister, Mostafa Madbouly, has announced that next Thursday will be a paid holiday for both public and private sector employees in celebration of the Hijri New Year.
Read also: Hijri New Year : Religious Significance of the Event of Hijra
In Morocco, the first day of Muharram 1446 AH is also expected to be on Sunday, July 7, according to astronomical calculations. The Moroccan government will observe the crescent moon on Saturday, July 6 to confirm the beginning of the new Islamic year.
Muslims around the world are eagerly anticipating the start of the Islamic New Year. According to moonsighting.com, the Muharram new moon is expected to occur on Friday, July 5 at 22:57 UT. The crescent moon might be visible in North Western Africa on July 6, and easily seen in the Americas, making July 7 the anticipated start for many countries worldwide, the website added.
This global observance of the Islamic New Year commemorates the historic journey of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. The occasion is an opportunity for Muslims to reflect on the significance of this day and the values it embodies.
