The Islamic New Year, also known as the Hijri New Year or Arabic New Year, holds a significant place in the Islamic calendar and is an important annual event in Egypt. It marks the day the Prophet Muhammad migrated from Mecca to Medina, a journey known as the Hijra, in 622 AD. The event signifies the start of the Islamic lunar calendar year. It takes place on the first day of Muharram, the first month in the Islamic calendar.
In Egypt, Islamic New Year is a public holiday, though it is marked quietly and contemplatively. There are no extravagant festivities or explosive celebrations, as it is a time for Muslims to reflect on the passage of time and their own personal growth throughout the past year. Many devout Muslims will use this day for prayer, to mourn the martyrs of Karbala, or to read the Quran. It is also common for Muslims to fast on this day, following the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad.
The Islamic New Year holiday in Egypt varies each year since it is based on lunar sightings, and the date can be different from one country to another. Unlike New Year in the Gregorian calendar which is universally celebrated on January 1st, the Islamic New Year moves approximately 11 days earlier each year when compared with the Gregorian calendar. Despite the quiet nature of the holiday, it is an important time for Egyptian Muslims who take the opportunity to ponder their faith, life, and purpose.