The Saudi Supreme Court has officially declared Tuesday as the first day of the Islamic New Year. This announcement, made on Monday, marks the beginning of the month of Muharram according to the lunar Hijri calendar used in Islamic tradition.

The declaration follows the traditional process of moon sighting, which determines the start of each new lunar month. The Saudi authorities rely on visual confirmation of the crescent moon to establish official dates for significant religious observances. The announcement comes ahead of various cultural and religious events associated with the New Year.

The Islamic New Year, also known as Hijri New Year, commemorates the migration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, an event which marks the start of the Islamic calendar. It is observed by Muslims worldwide and is a time for reflection and renewal.

Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court is responsible for verifying lunar sightings and issuing official statements regarding the Islamic calendar. This role ensures uniformity in the observance of Islamic events across the kingdom.

The first day of Muharram is considered a public holiday in Saudi Arabia, and the government generally encourages various religious activities on this day. Observances often include prayers and sermons reflecting on the significance of the Hijra and the passage of time in Islamic history.

The announcement provides clarity for citizens, residents, and businesses in Saudi Arabia as they prepare for the commemoration and its associated customs. It also aligns with regional moon-sighting practices, although the exact timing of the Islamic New Year can vary across different countries depending on lunar observations.

With the statement from the Saudi Supreme Court, the start of the Islamic New Year is officially set, marking the beginning of the 1448th year in the Hijri calendar.