12 Rabi al-Awwal 1447 Hijri Expected on September 4 in UK, September 6 in Pakistan
A new Ramadan-linked era or rather, its third leaf, draws closer as Muslim communities await the much-observed day of 12 Rabi al-Awwal, commemorating the Prophet Muhammad’s birth. Recent predictions display a slight variation depending on country and method of determining the lunar calendar.
Muslim observers in the United Kingdom anticipate that 12 Rabi al-Awwal 1447 Hijri will fall on Thursday, September 4, 2025, based on the Umm al-Qura calculations used by the Saudi authorities.
According to those calculations, the month of Rabi al-Awwal spans August 24 through September 22, 2025.
Meanwhile in Pakistan, local estimates differ. A recent local report states that Rabi ul Awwal is likely to begin on Monday, August 25, placing 12 Rabi ul Awwal on Saturday, September 6, 2025.
That date aligns with official public holiday listings in Pakistan, which mark Eid Milad-un-Nabi on 12 Rabi al-Awwal.
These differences reflect the inherent variations in Islamic date-keeping. The lunar calendar requires sighting of the new crescent moon to mark the start of each month, which can vary by geographic region and methodology. The Umm al-Qura calendar used in Saudi Arabia is calculation-based, while other countries rely on local religious authorities and physical moon observations.
The day in question is 12 Rabi al-Awwal that holds deep significance for many Muslims around the globe. Sunni communities widely observe Mawlid (Eid Milad-un-Nabi), the birthday of Prophet Muhammad, with sermons, communal prayers, and public gatherings. In regions like Lahore, Pakistan, thousands traditionally participate in processions around Minar-e-Pakistan between the nights of 11th and 12th Rabi al-Awwal.
Public responses vary. In the UK, religious networks note that while many observe Mawlid on September 4 according to projected dates, some communities await moon sightings before confirming the celebration.
Another UK-based authority lists Mawlid al-Nabi as expected on September 7, 2025, suggesting an alternative local adjustment.
Pakistan’s official sources have already signaled a public holiday on September 6, coinciding with Defence Day, and Pakistani media reflect national preparations for commemorative events on that date.
Among religious scholars, opinions differ. Some emphasize that precise dating is secondary to the spiritual reflection the month invites, while others encourage planning based on official announcements tied to local moon sightings.
Representatives of UK Muslim councils note that “depending on sighting, the day may shift by one,” urging communities to monitor official declarations.
Pakistani clerics reaffirm that local moon-sighting committees hold authority and their confirmation on August 25 would firmly establish September 6 as 12 Rabi ul Awwal.
Observers advise congregations to prepare for events but remain adaptable. Community centers and mosques in both regions have tentatively scheduled Mawlid sermons and gatherings for the predicted dates in UK on September 4, and in Pakistan on September 6 with a pending final confirmation from religious bodies.
Muslim Relief organizations recommend that adherents plan charitable events, lectures, and social outreach around these dates, encouraging inclusive practices that respect regional approaches to the calendar.
As the crescent moon appears in the sky over late August, communities across diverse geographies will unite in honoring a shared tradition, each according to its own rhythms and trusted authorities.
As the lunar month unfolds, communities in the UK and Pakistan prepare to mark Mawlid through reflection, gathering, and communal remembrance. Each setting follows its trusted methods while sharing the same sentiment of reverence.
