Best photos of June 27: Islamic New Year to a landslide in Colombia
Shiite Muslims take part in a mourning ritual in Iraq's southern city of Basra, on the first night of the month of Muharram in the lead-up to Ashura. AFP
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UAE Moments
4 hours ago
- UAE Moments
Islamic New Year: What Non-Muslims Should Know
The Islamic New Year, also known as Hijri New Year, marks a sacred moment in Muslim history. Here's everything non-Muslims should know about the meaning, customs, and how it's observed around the world. What Is the Islamic New Year? The Islamic New Year, also called the Hijri New Year, signals the start of the Islamic lunar calendar. It begins on the first day of Muharram, one of the four sacred months in Islam. The calendar itself dates back to the Prophet Muhammad's migration—or Hijra —from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, a defining moment in Islamic history. This year, the Islamic New Year 1447 AH (Anno Hegirae) falls on July 7, 2025, though dates may vary slightly depending on the moon sighting in different regions. Is the Islamic New Year Celebrated Like January 1? Not exactly. Unlike the Gregorian New Year, which is celebrated with fireworks and parties, the Islamic New Year is a quiet, reflective occasion. It's not celebrated with lavish events, but with prayer, remembrance, and spiritual reflection. Some Muslims mark the day with special sermons, reading the Qur'an, and giving charity. It's a moment to reset spiritually, not socially. Why Is Muharram Significant? The first month of the Islamic calendar, Muharram, is considered one of the holiest months in Islam. It's especially important to Shia Muslims, who mourn the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, during the Battle of Karbala on the 10th day, known as Ashura. For both Sunni and Shia Muslims, Muharram is a time for peace, reflection, and remembrance, rather than celebration. How Do Muslims Celebrate the Islamic New Year? If you live in or are visiting a Muslim-majority country, here's what you might observe during the Islamic New Year: Mosques may host prayer gatherings or lectures Some countries declare public holidays, such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia Families may share meals or donate to charity, but festivities are minimal In Shia communities, you may witness mourning processions or public recitations about Imam Hussain's sacrifice There are no mandatory religious rituals tied to the Islamic New Year, so customs may vary across countries and communities. What Should Non-Muslims Say or Do? Not sure how to greet Muslim friends or colleagues? Here are a few respectful options: 'Wishing you a peaceful Hijri New Year.' 'Blessed Muharram to you and your family.' Avoid saying 'Happy New Year' unless you know the recipient is comfortable with that wording, as the month is often solemn for many. If you're unsure, a simple acknowledgment and respect for the occasion go a long way. Is the Islamic Calendar the Same Worldwide? The Islamic calendar is based on lunar sightings, so the start of the new year can vary depending on the country. While some nations rely on astronomical calculations, others wait for the physical moon sighting, leading to slight differences in observance dates. Countries like Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Egypt often declare official holidays once the new month is confirmed. Why the Islamic New Year Matters (Even If You're Not Muslim) Understanding the Islamic New Year can help foster cultural awareness and mutual respect, especially in diverse workplaces and international communities. As globalization connects more of us, knowing when and why your Muslim friends or coworkers may be observing a spiritual period— even in a quiet way —helps build stronger relationships. Plus, if you're living in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, or working with international clients, being aware of public holidays and cultural customs can help you plan more effectively. Quick Facts: Islamic New Year for Non-Muslims The Islamic New Year isn't about countdowns or confetti. It's about reflection, renewal, and reverence. For non-Muslims, it's a meaningful opportunity to understand a deeply spiritual event and show respect for the diversity of global traditions. So next time the Hijri New Year comes around, you'll know exactly what it means, how it's observed, and why it matters.
The National
7 hours ago
- The National
Best photos of June 27: Islamic New Year to a landslide in Colombia
Shiite Muslims take part in a mourning ritual in Iraq's southern city of Basra, on the first night of the month of Muharram in the lead-up to Ashura. AFP
The National
11 hours ago
- The National
Sheikha Shamma opens collective to drive climate action through stories
Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan, founder of The Climate Tribe, opened the project's first physical home – The Climate Tribe Hub – this week. Tucked away in the heart of Abu Dhabi, the interactive space serves as a gathering point for climate storytelling, sustainable design, and hands-on workshops. Every detail, from tables made of date seeds to furniture woven from palm fibres, reflects the UAE's local materials and artisanal heritage. 'When we created the hub, we didn't want it to be a static space,' said Hind Al Ghseen, executive director of The Climate Tribe. 'We wanted the community to build it – to be part of it. We sought out local makers and brought them together.' A lifetime of work Sheikha Shamma is a passionate climate activist. 'It started for me when I was a student at Zayed University,' she told a room of climate advocates this week. 'My parents decided to go on a humanitarian trip to Mogadishu – I went with them. It was my first time witnessing the impact of a drought on a population.' That experience left a lasting mark. 'While studying business, I realised our economic models were missing something fundamental – the environmental cost. That moment changed everything for me.' Her other organisation, the UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA), focuses on policy and corporate alliances, but the Climate Tribe was designed to bring the conversation to a more personal, accessible level. 'It provides the human element,' she says. Global ambition with local heart Since its founding in 2023, The Climate Tribe has mobilised more than 2,200 people through grassroots initiatives, from tree-planting drives to recycling campaigns. In total, the group has helped plant 921 trees and divert more than 8,600kg of waste from landfill. Its blend of digital and physical tools – including workshops, tool kits and editorial storytelling – is designed to inspire both behavioural change and systemic action. According to Ms Al Ghseen, the launch of the hub represents a shift from online engagement to real-world collaboration. 'The Climate Tribe Hub is a true reflection of our values,' she said. 'From the materials chosen to the storytelling woven into every corner, it celebrates Emirati heritage and community craftsmanship.' Initially, the team looked beyond the UAE for climate stories. 'We were even planning to film in London,' Ms Al Ghseen said. 'But then we realised the UAE was full of untold stories – humble, impactful, and often overlooked. Sustainability here isn't always commercial. It's deeply personal.' The Climate Tribe's mission remains global – to bring international stories to local audiences and elevate UAE voices on the world stage. But at its heart, the aim is constant: to amplify hope, resilience, and solutions. When asked whether she believes the world is progressing quickly enough on climate, Sheikha Shamma didn't hesitate. 'No,' she said. 'There's still too much fragmentation. We live in a world of limited resources – we can't afford to be siloed. We need collaboration more than ever.'
