Muharram Mubarak – Happy New Islamic Year

The 17th June 2026 marks the start of the Islamic/lunar new year and the month of Muharram. On behalf of the volunteers are Leeds New Muslims, we wish you a happy new year.

Muharram is one of the four sacred months in Islam, along with Dhul-Qadah, Dhul-Hijjah, and Rajab.

It is commonly thought that the migration (hijra) of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) took place in Muharram, however we understand the migration actually took place in Rabi ul-Awwal.

The 10th of Muharram (also known as Ashura) is the date of the salvation of Prophet Musa (Moses). On this day, Allah parted the Red Sea, saving Prophet Moses and the Israelites from the tyranny of the Pharaoh. In gratitude, Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) practiced voluntary fasting on Ashura and we are encouraged to do the same.