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What is the Umm al-Qura Calendar? Overview
The Umm al-Qura calendar is a calculated Hijri (Islamic) calendar used for civil purposes in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It follows lunar months (29 or 30 days) using astronomical criteria to pre-compute the start of months—ideal for schedules, public holidays, and commerce.
Hijri Islamic Calendar vs Umm al-Qura Calendar
“Hijri” is the broader Islamic lunar system; Umm al-Qura is the Saudi civil implementation. Local moon-sighting may differ by ±1 day. For global consistency—travel, payroll, events—Umm al-Qura provides a unified baseline.
Why Muslims Love the Umm al-Qura Calendar
Predictable, widely adopted, and aligned with Makkah. It underpins prayer timetables, school terms, and national holidays across systems and apps.
Saudi Arabia’s Official Islamic Calendar
Saudi ministries, schools, and businesses rely on it as the official civil calendar, often shown alongside Gregorian dates.
Is the Umm al-Qura calendar accurate?
For civil planning—yes. Astronomical rules provide high accuracy and long-term predictability. For worship, communities may still confirm by local moon-sighting.
What does Ummul Qura mean?
Umm al-Qurā (أم القرى) means “Mother of the Cities.” It is an honorific for the holy city of Makkah (Mecca).
Which city is called Umm-ul-Qura?
Makkah (Mecca).
FAQs
What is the Umm al-Qura Calendar?
A Saudi Arabia–based, calculated Hijri calendar used for civil life and national holidays.
Hijri Islamic Calendar vs Umm al-Qura Calendar
Hijri is the general lunar system; Umm al-Qura is Saudi Arabia’s standardized, astronomically calculated version.
Why Muslims Love the Umm al-Qura Calendar
Predictable and consistent across apps and services.
Is the Umm al-Qura calendar accurate?
Accurate for civil use; worship may follow local sighting leading to ±1 day difference.
What does Ummul Qura mean?
“Mother of the Cities”—an honorific for Makkah.
Which city is called Umm-ul-Qura?
Makkah (Mecca).