Islamic New Year 2025, 2026 and 2027 in Bahrain

Islamic New Year is a public holiday for all people in Bahrain, where 70 per cent of the population are Muslim.

Year	Date	Day	Holiday
2025	26 Jun	Thu	Islamic New Year
2026	16 Jun	Tue	Islamic New Year
2027	6 Jun	Sun	Islamic New Year
Please scroll down to end of page for previous years' dates.

The majority of Muslims in Bahrain are Shiites, and Islamic New Year is therefore commemorated differently to neighbouring Sunni-majority countries. During the early days of Muharram, you will see Shiite events in the streets throughout Bahrain.

Many in Bahrain will fast and mourn over the martyrdom of Muhammad’s grandson Husayn Ibn Ali on 10 Muharram, a day called “Ashura.” Actually, the fasting often begins on Awal (first) Muharram and continues till Ashura (tenth) Muharram.

The new Islamic year begins with a time of reflection and attention to prayer, the Koran, and avoiding sinful practices. Also, the name of the month of Muharram means “forbidden” because it is forbidden to fight or war this time of year.

Previous Years

Year	Date	Day	Holiday
2024	7 Jul	Sun	Islamic New Year
2023	19 Jul	Wed	Islamic New Year