Overview
- Saudi Arabia's religious authorities announced on Tuesday, June 16 that Muharram 1448 AH has begun after a crescent‑moon sighting.
- Several Gulf states and UK reporting aligned with Saudi's June 16 start, while Indian government calendars and local sighting committees indicate a likely June 17 start in parts of South Asia.
- The Day of Ashura is expected on June 25 in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and many Arab countries, with India likely to observe it on June 26 pending final local confirmation.
- Muharram will end after 29 or 30 days depending on the next crescent sighting, placing the close of the month around July 15–16 and fixing exact public‑holiday timing.
- Observance practices differ across communities: Shia Muslims focus on mourning and public processions that prompt rolling road closures in UK cities, while Sunni Muslims emphasise fasting, prayer and charity.