Mabaas of Muhammad in Iran
Mabaas of Muhammad is listed among Iran’s official national holidays. Observed on 27 Rajab, it commemorates the day the Prophet was called to recite the word of God; its Gregorian date changes because the Islamic calendar follows lunar months.[1][2][3]
Meaning and history
Mabaas, also called ʿĪd-e Mabʿaṯ, marks the beginning of Muhammad’s prophetic mission. Encyclopaedia Iranica describes 27 Rajab as the day he was charged to recite the word of God. The celebration has a history in Iran: during the Qajar and Pahlavi periods, the shah held an official audience on this festival, alongside Nowruz and other occasions.[2]
A national public holiday
Iran’s 1359 law on official holidays includes Eid-e Mab’ath in its list of national holidays. The law establishes its legal status but does not specify a Gregorian date; the holiday follows the 27th of Rajab in the Islamic lunar calendar.[1][2][3]
The same law permits the government to declare additional public holidays for major events. For those separately declared closures, judicial and executive authorities must reschedule actions within a month, and the government may arrange essential services. The law does not set an automatic substitute day for Mabaas when it falls on a weekend.[1]
Work and practical arrangements
Iran’s Labour Law treats national official holidays as days separate from the additional holiday it grants workers for Labour Day. It also recognizes that public services such as water, electricity and bus services may use a different weekly rest day. These provisions do not give a Mabaas-specific schedule for public transport, banks, shops or schools, so travelers should check individual services and local announcements.[4]
A historical account confirms that Mabaas had an official place in Iran’s former royal calendar. Visitors should check local announcements for current events.[2]
Frequently asked questions
When is Mabaas of Muhammad?
Is Mabaas a public holiday in Iran?
Yes. Iran’s law on official holidays includes Eid-e Mab’ath in the national holiday list.[1]
Is there an automatic day off if it falls on a weekend?
The holiday law does not specify an automatic substitute day for Mabaas.[1]
What is open on Mabaas?
Check opening hours with government offices and banks before you go.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for Mabaas of Muhammad in Iran:
- لایحه قانونی تعیین تعطیلات رسمی کشور- Islamic Revolution Council (text hosted by Nezamat)
- BĀR ii. The Qajar and Pahlavi periods- Encyclopaedia Iranica Foundation, Inc.
- CALENDARS ii. In the Islamic period- Encyclopaedia Iranica Foundation, Inc.
- قانون کار [مصوب ۱۳۶۹]- Islamic Republic of Iran (Labour Law text hosted by Nezamat)