President Sheikh Mohamed marks Islamic New Year with call for peace

UAE leader sends out optimistic message to Muslims around the world

President Sheikh Mohamed extended his best wishes on the occasion of the Hijri New Year. Photo: UAE Presidential Court

President Sheikh Mohamed has issued a call for peace and harmony as Muslims around the world observe the Islamic New Year.

The head of state sent out his congratulations on social media on Saturday evening, on the eve of the occasion.

The Islamic, or Hijri New Year, heralds the beginning of Muharram, the first of 12 months on the Islamic calendar.

"On the occasion of Hijri New Year, I congratulate the people of the UAE and Muslims around the world," Sheikh Mohamed wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

"May God bless us this year as we pray for peace, harmony, and prosperity for all."

Sheikh Mohamed on Sunday sent congratulatory messages to kings, presidents and emirs in the Arab world on Hijri New Year.

He wished the leaders good health and happiness and expressed his desire for progress and prosperity for the people of their nations, state news agency Wam reported.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, and Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, sent similar messages.

The Ruler of Dubai also shared an uplifting message, wishing for the new year to bring "goodness, peace and stability".

"May God grant us all success in this new Hijri year to work for the benefit of the country and its people," he wrote on X.

Hijri New Year is being marked with a paid holiday on Sunday for the public and private sector.

In contrast to Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha, no religious observances are prescribed for the Islamic New Year. It is generally regarded as a day of reflection rather than celebration.