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The moon-sighting committee will announce when the Islamic new year will begin Image Credit: Thinkstock

Thursday, October 15 has been confirmed as a public holiday for both public and private sectors in the UAE.

What is hijri new year? The hijri new year is the beginning of the new Islamic year. The date is not affixed to a Gregorian calendar day as it all depends on the moon sighting. The day is approximately 11 days earlier each year.

When it will be confirmed The moon-sighting committee has confirmed the date.

Public holiday In 2015, Thursday, October 15 is to be the day of hijri, and a public holiday. This means an extended weekend for UAE residents. For the full list of public holidays read our UAE Public Holiday Guide 2015

What year is it? Next week the Islamic year will be 1437 AH.

What are the months on the hijri calendar?

1437
1 Muharram
2 Safar
3 Rabi Al Awwal
4 Rabi Al Thani
5 Jumada Al Ula
6 Jumada Al Akhira
7 Rajab
8 Sha’aban
9 Ramadan
10 Shawwal
11 Dhu Al Qa’da
12 Dhu Al Hijja

 

What is the story behind hijri new year? The first Islamic year was marked in the Gregorian year 622 AD. It was then when Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) migrated from Makkah to Medina. This journey is known as “hijira”.