Introduction to the Islamic Calendar (1447–1448 AH)
The Islamic calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar or Islamic Hijri calendar, is a lunar calendar used by Muslims worldwide to determine religious observance, worship schedules, and Islamic holidays. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which is solar-based, the Islamic calendar is based entirely on the sighting of the new moon.
Each month starts at sunset following confirmed visibility of the crescent moon. Because of this, Islamic dates shift approximately 11 days earlier each year when compared to the Gregorian system. The Islamic year contains 354 or 355 days, depending on lunar cycles.
The Islamic calendar began in 622 C.E, marking the Hijrah—the migration of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ from Makkah to Madinah. This event defines Anno Hegirae (AH), and the years 1447–1448 AH correspond to Islamic calendar 2026–2027.
For pilgrims planning Umrah or Hajj, understanding Islamic dates is essential for selecting the right time for pilgrimage, prayer, and travel planning.
The 12 Months of the Islamic Calendar
The Islamic calendar contains 12 months, also referred to as the twelve months that are based on lunar movement:
- Muharram (المحرّم)
- Safar (صفر)
- Rabi’ al-Awwal (ربيع الأوّل)
- Rabi’ al-Thani (ربيع الثاني)
- Jumada al-Awwal (جمادى الأولى)
- Jumada al-Thani (جمادى الثانية)
- Rajab (رجب)
- Sha’ban (شعبان)
- Ramadan (رمضان)
- Shawwal (شوّال)
- Dhul-Qi’dah (ذو القعدة)
- Dhul-Hijjah (ذو الحجة)
Each new month begins when the moon is sighted, and may last 29 or 30 days, depending on local and global moon sighting conditions and factors such as weather.
MUHARRAM (Sacred Month of Allah)
Muharram marks the Islamic New Year and is one of the four sacred months mentioned in the Quran. The term “Muharram” means “forbidden,” reflecting the peace and respect this month represents.
This month is also known for the Day of Ashura, observed on the 10th day. For Sunni Muslims, Ashura marks the rescue of Prophet Musa (Moses) and the Israelites from Pharaoh. For Shia Muslims, it is a day of mourning for the martyrdom of Imam Hussain at Karbala.
Muharram encourages Muslims to reflect on faith, sacrifice, and unity, making it a powerful start to the Islamic year.
The Qur’an emphasizes the sanctity of this month:
“Indeed, the number of months with Allah is twelve [lunar] months in the register of Allah… of these, four are sacred.” (Qur’an 9:36)
LESSONS OF MUHARRAM
- Renew Your Intentions: Start the year with sincere repentance and renewed faith.
- Trust in Allah: The story of Musa (AS) teaches patience and reliance on Allah.
- Increase Good Deeds: Use this month to focus on charity, prayer, and worship.
Read the complete guide on Muharram (المحرّم) and discover its importance in the Islamic calendar.
SAFAR (Faith Over Superstition)
Safar historically carried false beliefs about misfortune. Islam teaches rejection of superstition and emphasizes trust in Allah. Islam teaches believers to reject superstitions and place their trust in Allah alone.
Safar also represents a period of stability and peace for early Muslims, especially during their migration to Medina. It reminds us that faith and unity bring strength and protection. This encourages muslims reliance on prayer
LESSONS OF SAFAR
- Reject Superstitions: Focus on faith-based actions instead of myths.
- Strengthen Worship: Continue prayers, charity, and repentance.
- Trust in Allah: Embrace tawakkul and avoid fear-based thinking.
Read the complete guide on Safar (صفر) and learn about its meaning, history, and Islamic lessons.
Rabi al-Awwal (Month of the Prophet ﷺ)
Rabi al-Awwal is known for the birth of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. This month is celebrated with joy, reflection, and gratitude for the Prophet’s ﷺ teachings that brought mercy and guidance to humanity.
During this month, Muslims focus on strengthening their connection with the Prophet’s ﷺ character by practicing kindness, patience, and humility.
LESSONS FROM RABI’ AL-AWWAL
- Follow the Prophet’s Example: Learn from his mercy and humility.
- Strengthen Sunnah Practices: Increase supplications, Quran recitation, and charity.
- Promote Unity: Build stronger community bonds through forgiveness and compassion.
Read the complete guide on Rabi’ al-Awwal (ربيع الأوّل) and explore its spiritual significance in Islam.
RABI’ AL-THANI (A Month of Reflection and Patience)
Also known as Rabi al-Akhir, this month emphasizes steady worship. While it may not have widely known events, it still offers valuable opportunities for spiritual reflection and growth.
This month encourages believers to stay consistent in worship and continue learning about Islam to strengthen their faith.
LESSONS FROM RABI’ AL-THANI
- Seek Knowledge: Learn more about Islamic teachings and apply them.
- Stay Consistent in Worship: Maintain prayer, charity, and remembrance of Allah.
- Practice Patience: Embrace challenges with trust in Allah.
Read the complete guide on Rabi’ al-Thani (ربيع الثاني) and understand its lessons and virtues.
JUMADA AL-AWWAL (Resilience and Preparation)
Jumada al-Awwal reflects hardship and patience. It symbolizes endurance and patience in difficult times.
This month teaches Muslims to remain strong in faith and prepare for spiritual growth through consistent worship.
LESSONS FROM JUMADA AL-AWWAL
- Build Resilience: Face challenges with patience and trust.
- Prepare for Growth: Plan for future worship and self-improvement.
- Support the Community: Work together to help others.
Read the complete guide on Jumada al-Awwal (جمادى الأولى) and discover its place in the Islamic year.
JUMADA AL-THANI (Strength and Renewal)
Jumada al-Thani is the sixth month of the Islamic calendar. It is a time to renew spiritual commitment and continue practicing faith with sincerity and devotion.
The month encourages believers to stay consistent in worship and focus on personal improvement.
LESSONS FROM JUMADA AL-THANI
- Stay Committed: Keep faith strong through worship and charity.
- Renew Intentions: Reflect on your goals and strengthen your dedication.
- Strive for Improvement: Work on personal growth through learning and good behavior.
Read the complete guide on Jumada al-Thani (جمادى الثانية) and learn about its historical and spiritual significance.
RAJAB (A Sacred Month of Blessings)
Rajab is one of the four sacred months. The word “Rajab” means respect or honor, reflecting its importance.
Rajab is a time for increased worship, repentance, and preparation for Ramadan. It is also associated with voluntary Umrah, allowing pilgrims to perform this spiritual journey with devotion.
LESSONS FROM RAJAB
- Increase Worship: Spend more time in prayer, Quran recitation, and dhikr.
- Prepare for Ramadan: Use this month as spiritual training.
- Be Generous: Show kindness and support to others.
Read the complete guide on Rajab (رجب) and explore why it is one of the sacred months in Islam.
SHA’BAN (The Month of Preparation)
Sha’ban directly precedes Ramadan. Muslims use this month to strengthen their spiritual habits and increase worship.
Many Muslims observe voluntary fasting and extra prayers during Shaban to prepare for the intense devotion of Ramadan.
LESSONS FROM SHA’BAN
- Prepare for Ramadan: Increase worship and spiritual focus.
- Practice Fasting: Build discipline through voluntary fasts.
- Stay Connected to Allah: Increase supplications and good deeds.
Read the complete guide on Sha’ban (شعبان) and learn how it prepares Muslims for Ramadan.
RAMADAN (The Month of Mercy and Forgiveness)
Ramadan is the most significant month in the Islamic year. It is a month of fasting, prayer, charity, and spiritual reflection. Muslims fast from dawn until sunset to purify the body and soul and to remember those who are less fortunate.
Ramadan is a time to strengthen faith, seek forgiveness, and grow closer to Allah. The month concludes with Eid-ul-Fitr, a joyous celebration of gratitude and community.
LESSONS FROM RAMADAN
- Build Taqwa: Increase awareness of Allah in daily life.
- Practice Gratitude: Appreciate Allah’s blessings and share with others.
- Increase Charity: Help those in need through zakat and sadaqah.
Read the complete guide on Ramadan (رمضان) and understand its unmatched importance in Islam.
SHAWWAL (Renewal After Ramadan)
Shawwal begins with Eid al-Fitr. Many Muslims observe six voluntary fasts during Shawwal, which brings great reward and helps continue the spiritual momentum of Ramadan.
LESSONS FROM SHAWWAL
- Continue Good Habits: Maintain the worship practiced during Ramadan.
- Fast Six Days: Observing six fasts in Shawwal is highly recommended.
- Express Gratitude: Thank Allah for Ramadan’s blessings.
Read the complete guide on Shawwal (شوّال) and learn about its virtues after Ramadan.
DHUL-QI’DAH (The Month of Peace)
Dhul-Qadah is a sacred month. Fighting is prohibited, allowing Muslims to travel and prepare for Hajj.
This month marks the beginning of the Hajj season and encourages reflection and calmness. It is a time for spiritual preparation and inner peace.
LESSONS FROM DHUL-QI’DAH
- Seek Inner Peace: Focus on forgiveness and spiritual reflection.
- Prepare for Hajj: Mentally and spiritually prepare for pilgrimage.
- Strengthen Faith: Increase worship and good deeds.
Read the complete guide on Dhul-Qi’dah (ذو القعدة) and explore its role as a sacred month of peace.
DHUL-HIJJAH (The Month of Sacrifice)
Dhul-Hijjah is the final month. It is the month of Hajj, the pilgrimage that every Muslim must perform at least once in their life if they are able.
The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are highly virtuous, with Day of Arafah being one of the most important days. Eid-ul-Adha is celebrated during this month to honor the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
Islamic Calendar vs Gregorian Calendar
| Feature | Islamic Calendar | Gregorian Calendar |
|---|---|---|
| System | Lunar | Solar |
| Days per year | 354 / 355 | 365 |
| Month length | 29–30 days | Fixed |
| Year shift | ~11 days earlier | Stable |
| Based on | Moon sighting | Sun |
Accuracy, Moon Sighting & Date Estimates
Islamic dates are often estimated in advance but confirmed only after moon sighting. Differences may occur due to:
- Geographic location
- Weather conditions
- Local religious authority
Accurate prayer times and observance depend on confirmed sightings.
LESSONS FROM DHUL-HIJJAH
- Embrace Sacrifice: Learn from the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
- Increase Worship: Perform extra prayers and dhikr during the first ten days.
- Reflect on Unity: The Hajj represents unity and equality among Muslims.
Read the complete guide on Dhul-Hijjah (ذو الحجة) and discover the significance of Hajj and sacrifice.
About My Umrah Packages (MUP)
My Umrah Packages (MUP) is a trusted Umrah service provider based in the USA, dedicated to helping pilgrims plan and complete their spiritual journey with ease and comfort. Whether you are traveling for the first time or are a seasoned pilgrim, our team offers personalized support to ensure your Umrah experience is smooth and spiritually fulfilling.
At My Umrah Packages, we provide a complete range of services tailored to the needs of U.S. pilgrims, including flight arrangements, visa processing, hotel bookings, and reliable transport between the holy cities. Our goal is to make your pilgrimage safe, affordable, and stress-free.
Our services include:
- Flights (On Request): Flexible flight arrangements from major U.S. cities to Jeddah or Madinah
- Visa Processing: Hassle-free Umrah visa application and guidance for U.S. residents
- Hotels: Comfortable 3-star, 4-star, and 5-star accommodations near Masjid al-Haram and Masjid an-Nabawi
- Umrah Taxi: Reliable, air-conditioned private and group transport between Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah
We focus on transparent pricing, reliable support, and clear guidance from booking to return. Whether you are planning to travel during Ramadan, Dhul-Hijjah, or any other month, My Umrah Packages is committed to providing the best Umrah experience for pilgrims from the USA.
Performing Umrah: A Step-by-Step Guide
Performing Umrah is a profound spiritual journey that requires preparation and understanding of its rituals. If you are planning your first Umrah, it is essential to know each step clearly:
- Ihram: Enter the state of Ihram and recite the Talbiyah.
- Tawaf: Perform Tawaf around the Kaaba.
- Sa’i: Walk between Safa and Marwah.
- Tahalul: Complete the pilgrimage by trimming or shaving hair.
For a complete and detailed guide, visit our blog on How to Perform Umrah, where you will find step-by-step instructions and helpful tips.
Conclusion
The Islamic calendar 2026–2027 guides Muslims through a year of worship, reflection, and spiritual growth. Each of the 12 Islamic months holds unique lessons—from Muharram and Ramadan to Dhul-Hijjah—reminding believers to stay connected to Allah and strengthen their faith.
At My Umrah Packages (MUP), we support pilgrims from the USA with reliable services and guidance for a smooth Umrah journey. Whether you plan to travel during a sacred month or any other time, we are here to assist you every step of the way.
FAQs
How many months are in the Islamic calendar?
The Islamic calendar has 12 lunar months.
What is the Muslim year?
The Muslim year is the Hijri year, which begins with Muharram and follows the lunar cycle.
How many days are in an Islamic month?
A lunar month typically lasts 29 or 30 days, depending on the moon’s cycle.
What is the Islamic calendar?
The Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar used to determine religious events and observances.
Why is the Islamic calendar based on the moon?
The Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle because it was established during the time of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and is based on the sighting of the new moon.
What is the difference between the Hijri calendar and Gregorian calendar?
The Hijri calendar is lunar and has 354 or 355 days per year, while the Gregorian calendar is solar and has 365 days.
