How Saudi Arabia Calculates the Hijri Date: Umm Al-Qura Calendar System Explained
The Umm Al-Qura calendar calculation is Saudi Arabia’s official method for determining Islamic dates:
Are you curious about how Saudi Arabia determines Islamic dates such as Ramadan, Eid and the Hajj period? In contrast to the Gregorian calendar, which is based on the sun and moon, the Islamic (Hijri) calendar is built around the moon.
Saudi Arabia uses a special method known as the Umm Al-Qura calendar to accurately calculate dates.
In this tutorial, we’ll go over:
- How does the Umm Al-Qura system function
- The importance of moon sightings, as well as the role of astronomy
- The reasons why Saudi Arabia’s dates may be différent from those of other Muslim countries?
- Common misconceptions regarding the Hijri calendar
Let’s get started!
What Is the Umm Al-Qura Calendar?
The Umm Al-Qura calendar is Saudi Arabia’s official method of the determination of Islamic dates.
It’s named in honor of Mecca, the city that is Mecca (Umm Al-Qura), Islam’s holiest spot. Contrary to traditional methods of moon-sighting, this method combines:
- Astronomical calculations (for predictability)
- Actual moon sightings (for religious accuracy)
Why Does Saudi Arabia Use This System?
Before 1925, different regions of Arabia observed local moon sightings and were confused.
To make it easier to standardize dates for Ramadan, Eid, and Hajj, Saudi Arabia adopted the Umm Al-Qura calendar in 1950.
Key Features of the Umm Al-Qura Calendar
- Lunar-Based The lunar cycles (29-30 days per month).
- Astronomical Data uses mathematical calculations to forecast the moon’s new phase.
- Official Announcements: The Saudi Supreme Court confirms dates following verification.
How Is the Hijri Date Calculated?
The Umm Al-Qura calendar calculation adheres to strict rules for accuracy. The way it is done:
Step 1 – Moon Birth (Conjunction)
- The new Islamic month begins after the “conjunction” (when the moon is aligned between Earth and the sun).
- Astronomers precisely calculate this moment.
Step 2 – Moon Visibility Criteria
For a month that begins:
- Moonlight must come before sunset in Mecca.
- The moon will be set just after sunset (making it possible to observe).
If the conditions aren’t met in the current month, the month will continue for a further day.
Step 3 – Official Confirmation
Even with the best of calculations that are based on calculations, Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court waits for moon sightings verified by the lunar calendar before announcing important dates, such as:
- Ramadan starts & ends
- Eid Al-Fitr & Eid Al-Adha
- Islamic New Year (Muharram 1)
Umm Al-Qura vs. Traditional Moon Sighting
Many Muslim countries depend upon lunar sightings, which can lead to variations in dates. This is what the Umm Al-Qura system compares:
| Factor | Umm Al-Qura (Saudi Arabia) | Traditional Moon Sighting |
|---|---|---|
| Method | Astronomical + Sightings | Only visual sightings |
| Consistency | More predictable | Varies by weather conditions |
| Global Use | Saudi Arabia, GCC countries | Pakistan, India, Morocco, etc. |
How does it differ? Some scholars believe that the naked eye view is more reliable, and others believe in the scientific method of calculation.
Common Misconceptions About the Umm Al-Qura Calendar
Myth 1 – “It’s Purely Scientific”
While it is astronomical, Saudi Arabia still requires official moon sightings for major events.
Myth 2 – “All Muslims Follow Saudi Dates”
Numerous nations (like Pakistan and Indonesia) employ local sightings, so Eid and Ramadan can differ by one day.
Myth 3 – “The Calendar Is Always 100% Accurate”
The weather can be cloudy and hinder announcements and even calculations.
How to Check the Umm Al-Qura Calendar Online
Do you want to know the Hijri date following Saudi Arabia? Here’s how:
- Check out Umm Al Qura’s official site (managed by the Saudi government).
- Make sure to check Saudi news channels for official announcements.
FAQs About the Umm Al-Qura Calendar
Why does Saudi Arabia’s Eid sometimes differ from other countries?
Saudi Arabia follows astronomical calculations, and other countries depend on local observations, which can result in slight variations.
Can the Umm Al-Qura calendar be wrong?
Sometimes, the weather can cause delays in sightings. The system is more than 100 percent precise due to the advancement in astronomy.
How far in advance is the Umm Al-Qura calendar calculated?
It’s calculated to last five to ten years. However, the exact dates are contingent on confirmation from the government.
Do all Saudi cities follow the same dates?
Yes, the Supreme Court’s announcement applies nationwide.
Why does the Islamic year have fewer days than the Gregorian year?
The Hijri calendar is lunar-based (354 days), while the Gregorian calendar is solar-based (365 days).
How is the first day of Ramadan determined?
Saudi Astronomers determine whether they can determine whether the New Moon can be seen following the 29th of Sha’ban. If not, Ramadan starts after 30 days.
Can non-Muslims use the Umm Al-Qura calendar?
Absolutely! It’s a great option for travel, business and interfaith celebrations in Saudi Arabia.
What happens if the moon isn’t seen in Saudi Arabia?
The month of Sha’ban (e.g., Sha’ban) continues for 30 days before Ramadan begins.
Is the Umm Al-Qura calendar used for Islamic banking?
Yes, a lot of Islamic financial institutions depend on it to calculate Zakat as well as loan calculations.
Why don’t all Muslim countries switch to the Umm Al-Qura system?
Certain researchers are more inclined to use physical evidence to establish religious authenticity, leading to different methods.
Conclusion
The Umm Al-Qura calendar is a unique combination of tradition and science that helps Saudi Arabia set Islamic dates with accuracy.
Although it’s not the only method that is used in the world, its precision in astronomy ensures it’s a trustworthy source for a vast number of people.
Want to be up-to-date? Bookmark Saudi Arabia’s official announcements or make use of Hijri Calendar apps to get accurate dates!
