CategoriesSeasonal By Rupali Tanwar

Exploring UAE’s Rich Customs During Islamic New Year

Hijri New Year's Day and Islamic New Year holiday blog banner by Travel Saga Tourism

The Hijri calendar, often known as the Lunar Islamic calendar, determines all Islamic holidays. One such holiday, or an auspicious day is Al Hijra, the Islamic New Year. This day marks the start of Muharram, the first day of the calendar month that is regarded as the holiest month after Ramadan.

Usually, it is observed in peace, but this holiday is exactly the opposite of the one before it (EId-al-Adha). When you visit Dubai, you’ll notice that the city observes a dry day, and all hotels, public spaces, and educational institutions close. Individuals resolve to move away from negativity and towards positivity. This is not the time for wild parties, but rather for introspection.

What is the Islamic New Year?

Sunday, July 7 is predicted to be the day of the Arabic New Year Holiday in 2024, commonly referred to as the Islamic New Year Holiday or Hijri New Year. Families get together to celebrate the festival, which also serves as a moment for Muslims to remember the Hijra, the beginning of the Islamic calendar which describes the Prophet Muhammad’s journey from Mecca to Medina.

It is surely an important holiday for all the Muslims across the country. Moreover, the bliss of the new year is spread amongst the citizens. From delicious delicacies to joyful celebrations, Dubai promises a good start to the year.

How does the UAE celebrate the Hijri New Year?

Mosques for Meditation and Prayer: A large number of individuals go to mosques for special prayers. Statements from the Quran and speeches discussing the importance of the Hijra the Prophet Muhammad’s journey from Mecca to Medina are common features of these prayers.

Personal Introspection: People reflect on their own lives in an effort to begin the new year with fresh spiritual aspirations and faith. So, the people get enlightened by the prayers and promise a fresh start in their upcoming year.

Family get-togethers: Families gather together to eat together. Unlike other Islamic festivals, these events are typically more sombre, emphasising harmony and spiritual discourse. They also visit the top tourist attractions in Dubai together.

Home Décor: To commemorate the event, some families may choose to hang Islamic calligraphy, lamps, and lights in their homes.

Lectures and Seminars: Academic institutions and community centres may host talks and seminars that address the Islamic New Year’s religious and historical importance.

Goodwill: Giving to the less fortunate or taking part in community outreach initiatives are examples of acts of charity and community service that are encouraged.

Media Broadcasts: Documentaries, religious lectures, and cultural events are just a few of the special programming that local media outlets may air around the Islamic New Year.

Social Messages: Public personalities, social media influencers and leaders frequently convey messages of harmony, introspection, and optimism for the upcoming year.

Things to Remember

What to wear?

The best way to celebrate the new year and to look stylish is by wearing traditional and adorning an accessory piece or two. The traditional dress of Emirati men is a Dishdasha or a Kandura. Similarly, the traditional outfit of Emirati women is Abaya.

Where to go?

There are a lot of places where you can go on Hijri New Year. However, if you choose the common ones you may end up in a large crowd. So, if you want to explore some lesser known places with your friends and family here is a list.

What to eat?

There are a lot of new dishes you can try to commemorate the Islamic New Year. Starting off with Chabab, moving on to Regag, Thareed, Madrooba, Machboos, etc. Last but not least don’t forget to try Biryani. Also, read our blog on the 10 best Biryani restaurants in Sharjah.

Conclusion

To sum up, this was all about the upcoming Islamic New Year. Hence, prepare everything and get ready to spend some time with the people you care about. Don’t forget to organise a fantastic celebration in Dubai or visit the hidden gems of the UAE to make this occasion even more memorable. Discover some new places, reflect upon yourself, and check up on elders and friends. Lastly, don’t forget to contact Travel Saga for any travel queries.