On June 16th or 17th, 2026, Kuwait and several other Muslim-majority countries will observe a public holiday marking the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar. This calendar is based on the Prophet Muhammad’s migration from Makkah to Madina in 622 CE, a pivotal event that established the foundation for the Muslim community and its historical timeline.

The emigration, or Hijra, represents a significant turning point in Islamic history. It marked the transition from a period of persecution in Makkah to the establishment of Muslim sovereignty in Madina. The event was later institutionalized as the starting point of the Islamic calendar by Caliph Umar bin Al-Khattab, who designated the first day of Muharram in that year as Year 1 AH (Anno Hegirae).

The journey itself was not only a physical relocation but also a profound social and political transformation. It involved meticulous preparation and was marked by lessons in trust and brotherhood among the early Muslim community. Upon arrival in Madina, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) established the first mosque, which became a central place for worship, community gathering, and decision-making. Additionally, he introduced the Constitution of Madina, often regarded as one of the earliest written charters, which set out rights and responsibilities among different groups in the city and laid a framework for governance and coexistence.

This migration had far-reaching implications beyond its immediate religious significance. It fostered the growth of the Muslim community into a structured society, influencing economic practices and political organization. The event’s historical impact extends into global history as it shaped the development of one of the world’s major religions and guided the religious life of Muslims to this day through the Hijri calendar, which remains essential for determining religious observances and rituals.

As the holiday approaches, it serves as a reminder of this transformative episode in Islamic tradition, emphasizing themes of resilience, unity, and the establishment of a just society that continue to resonate with Muslims worldwide.