Islamic New Year in Egypt
Islamic New Year, also called Hijri New Year, begins on 1 Muharram. Egypt recognizes it as an official holiday, and a labour decree lists it as a fully paid leave for workers covered by the Labour Law.[1][2]
Official holiday and date
The Egyptian Presidency includes Hijri New Year in its official holiday calendar. A labour decree also names it among the days and occasions treated as leave under the Labour Law. The holiday follows the start of Muharram.[1][2]
The Hijri calendar is lunar, with months beginning around the new moon, so 1 Muharram moves through the Gregorian year. In Egypt, Dar al-Ifta’s moon-sighting committees include religious and astronomy specialists, and the institution announces the result of its sighting.[3][4]
Meaning of the new year
The Hijri calendar counts its years from the Hijrah, Prophet Muhammad’s migration from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. The calendar’s first year is reckoned from 1 Muharram, though the migration itself is the event from which the era takes its name.[4]
For people in Egypt, the date therefore has both religious and civic significance: it marks the beginning of the Hijri year and is recognized in the country’s official holiday calendar. Dar al-Ifta describes Muharram as a month in which fasting is encouraged and says fasting on the first day of the Hijri year is permissible.[1][3]
Observance and practical arrangements
Dar al-Ifta says voluntary fasting on the first day is permissible. Check with local organisers for information about foods, public ceremonies or regional traditions.[3]
The holiday has paid-leave status for workers covered by the Labour Law. The Presidency’s calendar confirms its official status. Check opening hours with government offices and banks before you go; check with shops, schools and transport services about their schedules.[1][2]
Frequently asked questions
Is Islamic New Year a paid public holiday in Egypt?
When does Islamic New Year fall?
Are government offices, banks, and shops closed?
Check opening hours with government offices and banks before you go. Banks and shops set their own hours, so confirm locally before making plans.[1]
Are there special customs or foods in Egypt?
Check with local organisers for information about customs or special foods for the day. Dar al-Ifta says voluntary fasting on the first day is permissible.[3]
Sources and references
Sources used for Islamic New Year in Egypt:
- العطلات الرسمية لعام ٢٠٢٦- Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt
- Decree No. 294 of the Year 2025 Determining the Days, Feasts, and Occasions Deemed Fully Paid Leaves for Workers- Ministry of Labour, Arab Republic of Egypt
- حكم صوم يوم رأس السنة الهجرية- Egyptian Dar al-Ifta
- Islamic calendar | Months, Definition, & Facts- Encyclopaedia Britannica