(Credit - Khaleej Times)
How the Islamic New Year date is set
Islamic New Year marks 1 Muharram 1448 AH, the first day of the Hijri year. The Hijri calendar is lunar and runs roughly 10 to 11 days shorter than the Gregorian year, so the date moves earlier each year. The exact start of Muharram is confirmed only once the new crescent is sighted, which is why early reports gave a two-day window.
| Question | Answer for 2026 |
|---|---|
| Expected date of 1 Muharram 1448 | Tuesday 16 or Wednesday 17 June, depending on moon sighting on 15 June |
| Holiday date set by the UAE | Monday 15 June |
| Who was covered | Federal government entities and private sector companies |
Why the holiday moved
Under Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024, the Cabinet can shift public holidays, except Eid, to the start or end of the week. Moving the holiday to Monday created a three-day weekend instead of a mid-week day off. A transfer needs a Cabinet decision each time and is never automatic.
Read next
- The announcement: Islamic New Year holiday on 15 June
- The rule: UAE holiday transfer rule
- Next year: Islamic New Year 2027 is expected on Sunday 6 June, a weekend date. See the 2027 holiday dates.
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