The Hijri (Islamic) calendar is purely lunar — each month begins with the sighting of the
new crescent moon, making the Islamic year approximately 354 days long, about 11 days
shorter than the Gregorian year. This is why Ramadan, Eid, and Hajj shift roughly 11 days
earlier each year, cycling through all seasons over a 33-year period.
The calendar began in 622 CE with the Prophet Muhammad's ﷺ migration (Hijrah) from Makkah
to Madinah — an event so pivotal that the early Muslim community adopted it as the
starting point of Islamic time. The current year is
1447 AH
(Anno Hegirae — "in the year of the Hijrah").
Frequently Asked Questions
What is today's Islamic date?
Today, 15 May 2026, is 28th Dhul-Qi'dah, 1447 AH. In Ashburn, the current prayer is Dhuhr at 01:07 PM.
How do I convert a Gregorian date to Hijri?
Select the 'Gregorian → Hijri' tab in the converter above, enter the day, month, and year, and the corresponding Islamic date will appear instantly. You can also convert in reverse using the 'Hijri → Gregorian' tab.
Why does the Islamic calendar differ from the Gregorian?
The Islamic calendar is purely lunar — each month begins with the new crescent moon, making the year approximately 354 days (11 days shorter than the solar Gregorian year). This means Islamic occasions shift roughly 11 days earlier each Gregorian year.
What Islamic month is it now?
Dhul-Qi'dah — One of the four sacred months; precedes the month of Hajj.
When does the next Islamic occasion start?
10 Days of Dhul Hijjah — Mon May 18, 2026 (3 Days to go)
