Morocco will observe the beginning of the Islamic New Year, 1447 AH, this Friday, June 27.
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs confirmed the sighting of the lunar crescent for the month of Muharram, officially designating Friday as its inaugural day.
In its announcement, the ministry extended its heartfelt wishes and congratulations to the Moroccan people and the Royal Family on this auspicious occasion. The Islamic calendar’s starting point, the Hijrah year, commemorates the historic migration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina. The term “Hijrah” itself is derived from the Arabic word for “migration.”
It is notable that while Morocco will celebrate the new year on Friday, many other Arab and Muslim-majority countries, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, marked the first day of Muharram on Thursday.
In Morocco, while a religious holiday, the Islamic New Year is often celebrated in a more subdued manner compared to some other Arab nations, particularly those in the GCC. Families who observe the occasion typically gather to share traditional dishes such as couscous, fostering a spirit of community and celebration.
MK/ac/Sf/fss/abj/APA