Islamic New Year 1442 Begins August 20, French Muslim Council Announces

According to the religious body, the date of Thursday, August 20, 2020 is the first day of the year 1442. The "most accurate scientific data" allowed the CTMF to make this decision. "The conjunction (new moon) will take place on August 19, 2020 at 2:42 GMT (4:42 Paris time)" and "its vision will be possible on the same day from 2:14 PM GMT (4:14 PM Paris time)," the council said.

The year 622 marked the first Islamic year. At the time, the Prophet Muhammad had emigrated to Medina (Hijra).