Hijri vs Gregorian Calendar: Key Differences
The Hijri and Gregorian calendars measure time in different ways. Here are the key differences and when each one is used.
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Hijri ↔ Gregorian Converter — The Hijri and Gregorian calendars measure time in different ways. Here are the key differences and when each one is used.
Lunar vs solar
The Gregorian calendar is solar — based on the Earth's orbit around the sun, giving 365 days. The Hijri calendar is lunar — based on the moon's phases, giving about 354 days across 12 lunar months.
The ~11-day difference
Because the lunar year is roughly 11 days shorter, Hijri dates move about 11 days earlier in the Gregorian year annually. Over about 33 years, an Islamic month cycles through all four seasons.
When each is used
The Gregorian calendar is the global civil standard for daily life and business. The Hijri calendar sets the timing of Islamic worship — Ramadan, the two Eids, and Hajj. Many people need both, which is why a converter is so useful.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Hijri calendar is lunar (about 354 days a year) and the Gregorian is solar (365 days), so they differ by about 11 days each year.
Because it follows the moon's phases (12 lunar months ≈ 354 days), while the Gregorian follows the sun (365 days).
Neither is "more accurate" — they serve different purposes: the Gregorian tracks the solar year and seasons, while the Hijri tracks lunar months for Islamic worship.