Islamic New Year Celebrated This Month – A Key Event for Muslims Around the World

This month, the Hijri New Year or Awal Muharram was celebrated marking the Islamic New Year; the word “Awal” translates to “beginning” and “Muharram” is the name of the Muslim calendar’s first month. It also has great significance since it marks the time in 622 CE when Prophet Mohammed made his way from Mecca to Medina. On this day, it’s customary for Muslims to attend mosques for special prayers, recite Koranic verses and hear sermons as well as gather for religious meetings and spiritual singing.

In 2023, Awal Muharram fell on 19th July 2023 and was observed by Muslim communities and nations across the world including the Maldives. Luxury resorts at such holiday destinations do remain open however during this day which is a public holiday; these include private island properties like Heritance Aarah which has a recreation of a Maldivian village for those interested in experiencing local culture.