The Islamic calendar, clearly explained
Understand the Hijri calendar with clarity and confidence.
Explore the twelve Islamic months, significant days and nights, and how dates are calculated, estimated, confirmed, or observed locally.
Today in the Islamic calendar
26 Rabi al-Awwal 1448 AH
Wednesday, September 9, 2026
Dates shown with clarity
Local observation matters. Hijri dates may differ by location and method. Across the site, IslamCal distinguishes dates that are confirmed, calculated, estimated, or locally observed.
Begin with the essentials
A trusted guide to Islamic time
IslamCal brings together the calendar’s religious foundations, historical context, and practical use. Content distinguishes established evidence from historical reports, scholarly differences, and cultural practice so readers can understand both what is shared and where legitimate variation exists.
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The twelve months
Learn each month’s Arabic name, meaning, virtues, history, key dates, and recommended acts.
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Important events
Discover significant days and nights with evidence notes, observance guidance, and regional context.
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Moon sighting
Understand visibility, testimony, calculation, and why communities may begin a month on different days.
Clarity at a glance
Know what kind of date you’re viewing
IslamCal uses consistent labels so estimates are never presented as confirmed observations.
Confirmed
Officially established by the relevant authority.
Calculated
Derived through a stated calendar calculation.
Estimated
A provisional date that may change.
Locally observed
Based on a local sighting or community decision.
Calendar guide
Why can an Islamic date differ?
Communities may rely on local sighting, global sighting, astronomical criteria, or a calculated civil calendar. IslamCal explains these approaches without obscuring the difference between prediction and religious confirmation.
Our editorial approach
- Identify the source and strength of religious evidence
- Separate historical reporting from devotional guidance
- Represent recognized scholarly differences fairly
- Label calendar methodology and regional variation
Explore the Islamic year, one month at a time.
Start with Muharram and continue through the complete Hijri calendar.