About Islamic New Year in Algeria
Islamic New Year is a public holiday in Algeria on 1 Muharram, the first day of the Hijri year. Because the Hijri calendar is lunar, the corresponding Gregorian date moves earlier over time.
The beginning of the Hijri year
The holiday opens a new year in the Islamic calendar. It is generally a quieter religious occasion than the two Eid festivals and offers a natural point for reflection on the passage of time. The national calendar identifies the legal day off; it does not assume that every family or community marks the occasion in the same way.
How Algeria confirms the date
The start of Muharram is established through Algeria's religious-calendar process. In 2026, the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Wakfs announced that Tuesday 16 June was 1 Muharram 1448. The same announcement placed Ashura on the tenth day, 25 June, showing why both dates depend on the confirmed beginning of the month.
Using future dates
Treat future Gregorian dates as planning estimates until the ministry announces 1 Muharram. Public institutions may close and other services may adjust their schedules, but opening hours differ. Recheck the date and any important appointment, journey or business hours shortly before the holiday.
Common questions about Islamic New Year
Is Islamic New Year a public holiday in Algeria?
Yes. Algeria observes 1 Muharram as a national public holiday.
Does it fall on the same Gregorian date every year?
No. The Hijri year is lunar, so 1 Muharram shifts through the Gregorian calendar and is officially confirmed.