1st Muharram 2025: Islamic New Year 1447 Begins with Moon Sighting

The Islamic New Year 1447 Hijri has officially started on Thursday, June 26, 2025, as Saudi Arabia and several Gulf countries announced the sighting of the Muharram crescent moon. This marks the beginning of Muharram 2025, the first month of the Islamic calendar.On Wednesday, June 25, 2025, religious authorities in Saudi Arabia confirmed the sighting of the Muharram moon, signaling the start of the Islamic New Year 1447. Countries like the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and others followed suit, celebrating the occasion with religious and cultural events. The Islamic lunar calendar relies on moon sightings to determine important dates, making this event a key moment for Muslims globally.In Pakistan, the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is expected to confirm the Muharram moon sighting on June 26, 2025, based on astronomical forecasts. This will officially mark 1st Muharram 2025 in Pakistan.Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and holds deep spiritual importance for Muslims. The 1st Muharram is also known as Youm-e-Umar, commemorating the martyrdom of Hazrat Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA), the second Caliph of Islam, who was assassinated on 1 Muharram 23 AH (644 CE).The 10th of Muharram, known as the Day of Ashura, is another significant day. It marks the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussein ibn Ali (RA), his family, and companions during the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. This day, falling on July 5, 2025, in Saudi Arabia, is observed with mourning and reflection by many Muslims.The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government in Pakistan has declared a public holiday on 1st Muharram 2025, as announced by the Department of Administrative Affairs. All government offices, schools, and businesses will remain closed to honor the occasion. This holiday aligns with the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee’s moon sighting announcement, ensuring the date is observed accurately.

Event	Date	Details
Muharram Moon Sighting	June 25, 2025	Crescent moon sighted in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, and other Gulf countries
1st Muharram 2025	June 26, 2025	Start of Islamic New Year 1447 Hijri, public holiday in Pakistan
Day of Ashura	July 5, 2025	Commemorates martyrdom of Imam Hussein (RA) in Saudi Arabia
Kiswa Replacement Ceremony	June 26, 2025	Annual tradition of replacing the Kaaba’s cloth in Makkah

Across the Gulf region, the Islamic New Year is celebrated with religious gatherings, prayers, and cultural events. In Saudi Arabia, the ceremonial replacement of the Kiswa, the black cloth covering the Kaaba in Makkah, began with the arrival of Muharram 2025. This tradition symbolizes renewal and reverence for the sacred site.

🌙 NEWS UPDATE | The crescent for the new Islamic year 1447 AH and the month of Muharram has been sighted today.

📅 Therefore, Thursday, 26 June 2025 will be the 1st of Muharram 1447. pic.twitter.com/nj0HuzB2jd

— Life in Saudi Arabia (@LifeSaudiArabia) June 25, 2025

In the UAE, Qatar, and other Arab nations, special programs are organized to mark the Islamic date and educate communities about the significance of Muharram. These events often include lectures, charity drives, and community gatherings to reflect on the values of faith and sacrifice.For those wondering, when is 1st Muharram 2025 in Pakistan?, the date is expected to be June 26, 2025, pending confirmation from the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee. The committee’s announcement ensures the Islamic calendar aligns with the lunar cycle, a practice followed across Muslim-majority countries.

Why Muharram Matters to Muslims

The month of Muharram is a time for reflection, prayer, and remembrance. It reminds Muslims of key historical events, such as the martyrdom of Hazrat Umar (RA) and Imam Hussein (RA). These events inspire lessons of courage, justice, and devotion to faith. For many, Muharram 2025 will be a time to renew their spiritual commitment and participate in community activities.