What is Muharram and the Islamic New Year?

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar and one of the four sacred months in Islam. It marks the Islamic New Year - a time for reflection, gratitude and renewed intention rather than loud celebration. Here is everything you need to know about Muharram, its significance and how Muslims observe it.

What is the Islamic New Year and when does it fall?

The Islamic New Year, known as Ras as-Sanah al-Hijriyah, marks the start of a new Hijri year. Because the Hijri calendar is lunar, the Islamic New Year shifts approximately 11 days earlier each solar year. In 2026, Muharram 1 began on Wednesday, 17 June 2026, in line with the South African moon sighting.

Unlike the Gregorian New Year, the Islamic New Year is observed quietly. There are no fireworks - it is a moment to pause, reflect on the year gone by and set sincere intentions for the year ahead.

Why is Muharram a sacred month in Islam?

Allah mentions in the Quran that four months of the year are sacred, and Muharram is one of them. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) called it "the sacred month of Allah," making it among the most virtuous months in the Islamic year. Voluntary fasting and worship during Muharram carry special reward.

Deepening your connection to the Quran during this month is one of the most meaningful things you can do. The Holy Quran with Colour Coded Arabic Text and Transliteration makes daily recitation accessible for every level of reader. The Quran Tilawah Magnet is another easy way to keep daily Quran recitation part of your home routine.

What is the Day of Ashura?

The 10th of Muharram - known as Ashura - holds deep significance for Muslims. When the Prophet (peace be upon him) arrived in Madinah and found the Jewish community fasting, he was told they fasted to commemorate the day Allah saved Prophet Musa (Moses) from Pharaoh. He said Muslims have a greater right to honour Musa and recommended fasting on the 10th and the day before or after it.

For many Muslims, Ashura is also a time to remember the sacrifice of Imam Husayn (may Allah be pleased with him) at Karbala. This aspect of Ashura is observed with solemnity and sorrow - not with festivity.

How do Muslims observe Muharram?

Recommended acts of worship during Muharram include:

• Fasting - particularly on the 9th and 10th, or 10th and 11th of Muharram.
• Increased dhikr - regular tasbih and du'a throughout the month. An Amaani Tasbeeh is a simple, lasting way to keep the remembrance of Allah close throughout your day.
• Recitation of the Quran - setting a daily reading target, even a page or two.
• Making du'a - sincere supplication and intention-setting. A Quran and Du'a Pillow is a gentle way to keep little ones engaged with du'a from an early age.
• Reflection and gratitude - taking stock of the past year and renewing your commitment to your faith.

A meaningful way to start the Islamic New Year

The Islamic New Year is a chance to revisit your relationship with the Quran. Reading from a clear, beautifully presented copy makes a real difference to daily consistency. The Amaani Luxury Quran is a gift-worthy edition that makes a meaningful companion for the year ahead - for yourself or a loved one.

For families, setting aside time for Surah Yaseen is a beloved tradition in many South African Muslim homes. A 41 Yaseen Set makes it easy to read together or give as a thoughtful gesture this Muharram.

Du'a for the new moon of Muharram

When the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) saw the new crescent moon, he would recite this du'a (Sunan al-Tirmidhi):

اللَّهُمَّ أَهِلَّهُ عَلَيْنَا بِالأَمْنِ وَالإِيمَانِ، وَالسَّلَامَةِ وَالإِسْلَامِ، وَالتَّوْفِيقِ لِمَا تُحِبُّ وَتَرْضَى، رَبُّنَا وَرَبُّكَ اللَّهُ

"Allahumma ahillahu 'alayna bil-amni wal-iman, was-salamati wal-Islam, wat-tawfiqi lima tuhibbu wa tarda; Rabbuna wa Rabbuka Allah."

"O Allah, bring it (the new moon) over us with security and faith, with safety and Islam, and with the ability to do what You love and are pleased with. Our Lord and your Lord is Allah."

Frequently asked questions about Muharram

Is it obligatory to fast on Ashura?

Fasting on Ashura (10th Muharram) is a highly recommended Sunnah - it is not obligatory. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said fasting on Ashura expiates the sins of the previous year. Scholars recommend pairing it with an additional day, fasting either the 9th and 10th, or the 10th and 11th of Muharram.

Can Muslims celebrate the Islamic New Year?

There is no specific prescribed celebration for the Islamic New Year. Most scholars advise against imitating New Year's Eve-style festivities. The occasion is better spent in reflection, ibadah and renewing intentions for the year ahead.

What is the significance of the Hijri calendar?

The Hijri calendar marks Islamic dates and occasions - from Ramadan and Eid to Hajj and Muharram. Its starting point is the Hijra - the migration of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) from Makkah to Madinah in 622 CE, a pivotal moment in Islamic history.

What should I say at the Islamic New Year?

There is no specific du'a mandated for the Islamic New Year. Many Muslims offer general prayers for a blessed year ahead, recite Surah Yaseen and make du'a for themselves, their families and the Muslim ummah worldwide.

How long does Muharram last?

Like all Islamic months, Muharram lasts either 29 or 30 days depending on the lunar cycle. The most significant day is the 10th - Ashura - though the whole month is considered sacred and virtuous for additional worship and fasting.

Muharram gift ideas in South Africa

Looking for a meaningful gift this Muharram and Islamic New Year? Here are a few ideas, all available at Cii Stores:

• Sukoon 2-in-1 Quran Speaker and Electric Bakhoor Burner - two gifts in one: an electric bakhoor burner with a built-in Quran speaker and remote, filling the home with fragrance and recitation. A thoughtful gift for parents or a new home.
• Amaani Tasbeeh (99 beads) - a premium 99-bead tasbeeh for daily dhikr, a personal gift that encourages remembrance through the new Islamic year.
• Moroccan Winter Djellaba Thobe - a warm, elegant Moroccan djellaba made for the South African winter, a practical yet special gift for him as the colder months set in.
• Sakinah Islamic Wall Clock - a calm, sacred focal point for any room, available in three designs: Madinah, Makkah and Umbrella.

Explore the full Muharram and Islamic New Year collection at Cii Stores - Qurans, tasbeeh, du'a books and more, all in one place.