Ashura 2026: Date, Significance, Holidays, and What Travelers Should Know

Ashura falls on the 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. In 2026, it is expected on Thursday, 25 June.

Here’s the 2026 date, what the day marks, and where it is a public holiday.

When Is Ashura 2026?

Ashura 2026 is expected to fall on Thursday, 25 June 2026 — the 10th day of Muharram 1448 AH. Because the Islamic calendar follows the moon, the date may move to 26 June depending on the local moon sighting, as Islamic Relief notes.

Muharram 1448 is expected to begin around 16–17 June 2026, so Ashura lands about ten days into the month. The month opens the Islamic New Year, a public holiday in countries such as the UAE, Bahrain, and Kuwait. Here are the key dates at a glance:

If you are booking flights or hotels around late June, plan ahead, as several countries observe a public holiday on or around this date.

What Is the Day of Ashura?

Ashura is one of the most widely recognised days in the Islamic calendar. The name means “tenth,” marking the 10th day of Muharram.

For most Sunni Muslims, the day is observed quietly through voluntary fasting, traditionally marking a day of deliverance for the Prophet Musa (Moses) and his followers. For Shia Muslims, it is a major day of remembrance linked to the Battle of Karbala in present-day Iraq, over 1,300 years ago.

Where Is Ashura a Public Holiday?

According to Office Holidays, Ashura is an official public holiday in several countries, especially those with large Shia populations. If you are travelling in late June 2026, expect government offices, banks, and many businesses to close on these dates.

In several Sunni-majority countries, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, Ashura is not a public holiday. Always confirm locally, as the date can shift by a day with the moon sighting.

How Ashura Is Observed Around the World

Ashura is not marked the same way everywhere. It carries deep significance for Shia communities, while Sunni-majority regions often observe it more quietly through fasting and charity. Below is how a few countries mark the day.

Iraq

Karbala is the spiritual heart of Ashura. Millions of pilgrims travel to the shrine of Imam Hussain, many flying into Najaf before continuing overland.

The city fills with processions, recitations of elegies, and communal meals. It is one of the largest annual gatherings in the Muslim world.

Bahrain

Bahrain has one of the largest Shia populations in the Gulf, and Ashura is widely observed. Mosques hold lessons on the life of Imam Hussain, and food is shared with those in need.

Throughout the month, daily processions known as Azadari take place, featuring recitations, mourning rituals, and reenactments of the events of Karbala.

Pakistan

In Pakistan, Ashura is a public holiday. Shia Muslims observe it by withdrawing from celebrations and remembering the suffering of Imam Hussain and his family.

Observances include solemn processions, prayer, fasting, and the lighting of oil lamps. Mourners traditionally wear black for the rituals.

Bangladesh

In Bangladesh, Ashura is a national holiday. Shia communities hold processions in cities and towns, with mourners in black carrying banners and reciting elegies.

Many also attend Majlis — gatherings where the life and martyrdom of Imam Hussain are recounted through speeches and poetry, often ending in a shared meal.

Algeria

In Algeria, Ashura blends remembrance with festive customs. Families gather for a meal after the Ashura fast, often featuring dishes such as rougag with chicken and couscous with mutton.

In some regions the day is linked to giving zakat (charity), and children decorate their hands with henna.

Fasting on Ashura

Fasting is one common way the day is observed. The key points to know:

• Fasting on Ashura is voluntary, not obligatory.
• It is usually kept over two days — the 9th and 10th, or the 10th and 11th of Muharram.
• In 2026, that generally means Tasua (24 June) and Ashura (25 June), or Ashura and the following day (25–26 June).
• The fast runs from dawn to sunset, as it does during Ramadan.

What to Expect If You’re Travelling

If your trip falls around Ashura, a little planning helps. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Closures: In countries that observe Ashura, government offices, banks, and many businesses close on the day — and sometimes the day before. Check opening hours before you go.
• Processions and gatherings: Some cities hold large public gatherings, which can lead to road closures and diversions. Allow extra travel time and follow local guidance.
• Transport: Buses, trains, and metros may run on holiday timetables or be busier than usual near major sites.
• Book ahead: With a public holiday in several countries, flights and hotels can fill up early, so reserve in advance.
• Be considerate: Ashura is a solemn day for many communities. Dressing modestly and being mindful around gatherings is always appreciated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What date is Ashura in 2026?

Ashura 2026 is expected on Thursday, 25 June 2026 (10 Muharram 1448 AH). It may fall on 26 June in some countries, depending on the local moon sighting.

When does Muharram 1448 begin?

Muharram 1448, which marks the Islamic New Year, is expected to begin around 16–17 June 2026. Ashura follows on the 10th day of the month.

Is Ashura a public holiday?

It is an official holiday in countries such as Pakistan, Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, and Bangladesh. Many Sunni-majority countries, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, do not observe it as a public holiday.

Sources

1. Office Holidays — Ashura Around the World
2. Islamic Relief — Day of Ashura
3. Ashura — Wikipedia
4. Islamic New Year — Wikipedia

Disclaimer: Wego strives to ensure all information presented in this article is accurate and up to date at the time of publication. Travel policies, prices, visa requirements, and conditions can change rapidly. We strongly recommend verifying critical details with official sources before making travel decisions. Wego does not accept liability for any inaccuracies, oversights, or changes that may occur after publication.