When Is the Islamic New Year 2026? Understanding the First of Muharram and Crescent Moon Sighting

The Islamic New Year—also known as the First of Muharram—begins with the first sighting of the crescent Moon, marking the start of a new lunar year for Muslims around the world. Unlike fixed solar-calendar holidays, the Islamic New Year shifts each year because it follows the phases of the Moon. For many Muslims, the year officially begins when the new crescent Moon is first spotted after the new Moon in the month of Muharram. However, the date can vary depending on location, weather, and the method used to determine the sighting.

What Is the First of Muharram?

The First of Muharram, or the Islamic New Year, marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar year.

For many Muslims, it begins at the first sighting of the lunar crescent after the new Moon in the month of Muharram. The crescent Moon may be visible a day or so after the new Moon, but weather and other factors may delay the sighting. 

Other Muslims use different criteria to determine the start of the calendar, such as the Fiqh Council of North America (FCNA), which calculates the date according to the following: The Moon must be born (become new) before sunset in Makkah, and the Moon must set after sunset. The following dates are calculated according to expected visibility. 

When Does the Islamic New Year Begin?

Below are the sundown dates for the Islamic New Year (First of Muharram).

NOTE: Our products are published for the United States and Canada; our reference source for the above dates is the United States Naval Observatory. Other countries, as well as certain denominations and groups within North America, may not use the same method to determine the date of the Islamic New Year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the First of Muharram?

The First of Muharram marks the start of the Islamic lunar calendar year. It is both a religious and cultural moment of reflection for many Muslims worldwide.

How is the Islamic New Year date determined?

Most Muslims look for the first visible crescent Moon after the new Moon in the month of Muharram. Because visibility depends on weather and geographic location, the date may differ by region.

Why do different communities celebrate the Islamic New Year on different days?

Some rely on local moon sighting, while others—like the FCNA—use calculated criteria, such as ensuring the Moon is “born” before sunset and sets after sunset in Makkah.

Why does the Islamic New Year fall on different dates each year?

The Islamic calendar is lunar, consisting of 354 or 355 days. Because it’s about 10–12 days shorter than the Gregorian solar calendar, Islamic dates move earlier each year.

Are the published dates accurate for all countries?

No. The listed dates are based on expected visibility calculations for the U.S. and Canada. Other regions or denominations may determine the date differently.

Is the Islamic New Year a major religious holiday?

It is generally more solemn and reflective than celebratory. Some communities hold prayers, gatherings, or educational events, while others observe quietly.

If you observe the Islamic New Year, please share your traditions below!