Islamic New Year 1448 AH on June 17 in Morocco
Morocco announces 1st Muharram 1448 AH on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, after crescent moon not sighted on June 15.
June 16, 2026
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Source: medias24.com
Morocco's Ministry of Islamic Affairs announced that the 1st of Muharram 1448 AH, marking the Islamic New Year, will be observed on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. The decision follows the failure to sight the crescent moon on Monday evening, June 15, 2026, corresponding to 29 Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 AH.
According to the ministry, astronomical calculations and reports from observation stations confirmed that the moon was not visible after sunset on June 15. As a result, the month of Dhu al-Hijjah will complete 30 days, and Muharram begins on June 17.
The Islamic New Year, also known as the Hijri New Year, commemorates the migration (Hijra) of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. The date varies each year in the Gregorian calendar due to the lunar cycle.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Islamic New Year on different dates each year?
The Islamic calendar is lunar-based, with months starting based on moon sighting, causing the New Year to shift about 11 days earlier each Gregorian year.
What is the significance of Muharram?
Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and one of the four sacred months in Islam, during which warfare is traditionally forbidden.
How is the Islamic New Year determined in Morocco?
Morocco relies on official moon sighting committees and astronomical calculations to announce the start of each lunar month, including Muharram.
