The UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan have officially declared the sighting of the crescent of the Islamic month of Muharram 1445 AH on Tuesday, July 18, 2023.
This announcement ushers in the Hijri New Year, a significant event for Muslims worldwide.
In Abu Dhabi, the crescent was first spotted at the International Astronomical Centre’s Observatory at 06:58 GMT, with the moon positioned 7.9 degrees away from the sun.
Similarly, in Irbid, Jordan, observer Dr. Anas Sawalha captured a photograph of the crescent at 05:48 GMT, where it appeared 7.7 degrees from the sun.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court declared Tuesday as the end of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, 1444 Hijri.
As per the Umm Al Qura calendar, Wednesday, July 19, 2023, marks the beginning of the month of Muharram, 1445 Hijri.
In light of this occasion, the UAE has designated Friday, July 21, as an official holiday to celebrate the Islamic Hijri New Year for both public and private sector employees.
This decision follows the implementation of a Cabinet Resolution on official holidays for the year 2023.
Significance of Hijri New Year
The Hijri New Year signifies the migration, or Hijra, of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers from Mecca to Medina in the year 622.
This event holds immense importance in the Islamic faith and serves as the starting point for the lunar calendar year.
Due to the lunar calendar’s shorter duration compared to the Gregorian calendar, the Hijri New Year falls on different dates each year.
Muslims around the world celebrate this occasion as a time for reflection, renewal, and gratitude.
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