The UAE holidays 2023 are a time of anticipation and celebration for residents and citizens alike. That, too, on a holy day like Hijri New Year, changes the whole vibe of the holiday. The Hijri New Year holds significant importance for Muslims around the globe.

The Islamic New Year holiday is one of the most awaited holidays in the UAE. People get excited to the extent that they start counting down the days to this special day. This article covers everything about the Hijri New Year, why it is important, and what other special occasions are to come between the years 2023 and 2024. 

What is the Hijri New Year?

Americans call it the Islamic New Year, and Muslims call it the Hijri New Year. However, it marks the beginning of a new year in the Islamic calendar. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which is based on the solar year, the Islamic or Hijri calendar follows the lunar cycle.

Every month of the Islamic calendar starts with the sighting of the new crescent moon. The Hijri New Year is observed on the first day of Muharram, the first month in the Islamic calendar.

Significance of the Hijri New Year in the UAE

Muharram, the first month of the Hijri calendar, holds significant importance in Muslims. During Muharram, most of the significant narratives of Muslims were recorded. In UAE, the Hijri New Year unites families and communities so they can reflect on the values of unity, faith, and resilience.

Hijri New Year This Annual Celebration

The Hijri New Year commemorates the Hijra, the migration of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. The Islamic calendar is composed of 12 lunar months.

The Hijri year is approximately 354 days long, shorter than the Gregorian year.

Predicted Date: Counting Down to July 19

In 2023, the Hijri New Year marked the start of 1445 AH (Anno Hegirae). The moon is expected to be seen on Wednesday, July 19. The same date will be announced as a public holiday throughout the UAE.

Importance of the Hijri New Year in the Islamic Faith

The Hijri calendar is undoubtedly important for Muslims. However, the new Islamic Year excites them and reminds them of the time when Our Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) migrated from Makkah to Medina.  

That migration is also a significant incident as through this migration, the foundation of Islam was built in Medina. Islam reached every corner of the earth after this great migration. In this migration, Muslims of that time established examples of brotherhood, patience, and belief. 

Other Upcoming UAE Holidays In Hijri New Year in 2023 and 2024

The UAE holidays 2023 include several significant Islamic events. After the Hijri New Year, the next major event is Ramadan, followed by Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha in 2024. 

Here’s a brief overview of what to expect:

The Holy Month of Ramadan

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Hijri calendar and one of the holiest months in Islam. Muslims worldwide observe this period of fasting, prayer, and reflection. In 2024, Ramadan is expected to begin on Monday, March 11. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. 

Eid Al Fitr

Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan. It’s a time of joy, celebration, and community. Muslims gather for special prayers, share festive meals, and exchange gifts. Eid Al Fitr 2024 will fall in the UAE on Wednesday, April 10. It’s a public holiday with family gatherings, charity, and social events.

Eid Al Adha

Eid Al Adha is one of the most important Islamic holidays following Eid Al Fitr. On this day, Muslims celebrate the wholeheartedness of Prophet Ibrahim towards Allah that he was going to sacrifice his son for Allah that he got after 80 years of praying. 

Eid Al Adha 2024 is predicted to be on Monday, June 17. Muslims around the world perform the ritual of sacrificing animals and sharing the meat with friends—family, and needy people. 

What to Expect for Future Islamic Celebrations

Although the exact dates are mentioned here, it is advised to confirm them a day before the occasion. The Hijri calendar is dynamic, so the dates shift every year due to the shorter lunar cycle. People who plan should check the news for any changes. However, experts like Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Emirates Astronomical Society, regularly share projections for Islamic dates, and it is advised to check those. 

Bottom Line

The UAE holidays in 2023 include the upcoming Hijri New Year, an important religious event. People are excited about this public holiday on July 19 because it’s a chance to think about faith and unity. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Hijri New Year in the UAE?

The Hijri New Year marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar and is celebrated on the first day of Muharram. It’s a public holiday in the UAE, with prayers and family gatherings.

When is the UAE Holidays 2023 Hijri New Year?

Depending on the sighting of the crescent moon, the Hijri New Year is expected to fall on Wednesday, July 19, 2023.

Why is the Hijri New Year important for Muslims?

It commemorates the Hijra, the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) migration from Mecca to Medina, marking a pivotal moment in Islamic history.

What are the major Islamic holidays in the UAE?

Key Islamic holidays in the UAE include the Hijri New Year, Ramadan, Eid Al Fitr, and Eid Al Adha.

How is the Hijri New Year different from the Gregorian New Year?

The Hijri New Year follows the lunar calendar, shorter by about 11 days than the Gregorian year. It holds religious significance rather than being a time for large-scale festivities.