His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has conveyed his heartfelt congratulations to Arab and Islamic nations on the occasion of the new Hijri year 1447.
In a message shared on his official X account, Sheikh Mohammed stated: “We pray to Allah that this year brings goodness, blessings, and prosperity to all. May each year bring better days. May our peoples always live in safety, security, peace, stability, and continued prosperity.”
A time for reflection and renewal
The Hijri New Year, also known as Islamic New Year or Ra’s as-Sanah al-Hijriyah, marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar. It commemorates the historic migration (Hijra) of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. This event is a cornerstone in Islamic history, symbolizing the establishment of the first Muslim community and the start of the Islamic era. The first day of Muharram, the first month in the Islamic calendar, is observed as the Hijri New Year and is a time of reflection, prayer, and renewal for Muslims worldwide.
The Hijri New Year is generally observed with solemnity and spiritual contemplation. It is a time for Muslims to reflect on the past year, seek forgiveness, and set intentions for the year ahead. Many communities hold special prayers and sermons that emphasize themes of patience, perseverance, and unity.
In the UAE, the Hijri New Year is a public holiday, with government offices, schools, and many businesses closing to allow citizens and residents to observe the occasion. The date of the Hijri New Year shifts each year by about 10 to 12 days earlier in the Gregorian calendar due to the lunar cycle. In 2025, the Hijri New Year 1447 will be observed in the UAE on June 27, marking an important occasion for both the UAE and the wider Muslim community.
Read more: UAE President extends Hijri New Year greetings, emphasizing global peace and prosperity
A call for peace and progress
The UAE has long embraced its role as a leader in promoting tolerance and coexistence, hosting interfaith dialogues and initiatives that bridge cultural and religious divides. The observance of the Hijri New Year is one such occasion that highlights the country’s rich Islamic heritage and its dedication to preserving and celebrating cultural traditions.
As Muslims around the world welcome the year 1447, the sentiments expressed by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum serve as a reminder of the shared values that unite the global Islamic community. It is a time to look forward with hope and determination, striving for a future marked by peace, progress, and collective well-being.
