Question 1

What is the Islamic calendar?

Accepted Answer

The Islamic calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar, is a lunar calendar consisting of 12 months in a year of 354 or 355 days. It is used to determine the proper days of Islamic holidays and rituals.

Question 2

How many months are in the Islamic calendar?

Accepted Answer

The Islamic calendar has 12 months: Muharram, Safar, Rabi al-Awwal, Rabi al-Thani, Jumada al-Awwal, Jumada al-Thani, Rajab, Shaban, Ramadan, Shawwal, Dhu al-Qidah, and Dhu al-Hijjah.

Question 3

When does the Islamic year start?

Accepted Answer

The Islamic year starts with the month of Muharram. The first day of Muharram marks the beginning of the new Hijri year.

Question 4

How is the Islamic calendar different from Gregorian?

Accepted Answer

The Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar based on moon phases, while the Gregorian calendar is solar-based. The Islamic year is about 11 days shorter than the Gregorian year.

Question 5

Why do Islamic dates change every year?

Accepted Answer

Islamic dates shift approximately 11 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar because the lunar year is shorter than the solar year.

Gregorian vs Hijri Calendar

March 2026