Mawlid al-Nabi 2026
The birthday of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ — 12 Rabi al-Awwal
Expected Date
Tuesday, August 25, 2026
12 Rabi al-Awwal 1448 AH
Mawlid al-Nabi 2026
Tuesday, August 25, 2026
12 Rabi al-Awwal 1448 AH
Mawlid al-Nabi 2027
Saturday, August 14, 2027
12 Rabi al-Awwal 1449 AH
About Mawlid al-Nabi
Mawlid al-Nabi (مولد النبي ﷺ) — also called Milad al-Nabi, Milad un Nabi, or Eid Milad — marks the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ on 12 Rabi al-Awwal. Most historians place his birth in approximately 570 CE, though some scholars say 571 CE. Rabi al-Awwal is the third month of the Islamic Hijri calendar.
Significantly, 12 Rabi al-Awwal is also the date of the Prophet's passing (wafah) in 632 CE — making it a day of both joy and sorrow for Muslims.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ himself fasted on Mondays, and when asked about it said: "That is the day I was born and the day revelation came to me." (Muslim). This shows that he acknowledged and honored the day of his birth through fasting and gratitude — the best way to honor any blessing.
How to Honor the Prophet ﷺ on Mawlid
Send Salawat (Blessings)
All scholars unanimously agree: the best act on Mawlid (and every day) is to increase Salawat upon the Prophet ﷺ. Allah says: 'Indeed, Allah and His angels send blessings upon the Prophet. O you who believe, ask Allah to confer blessing upon him and ask Allah to grant him peace.' (Al-Ahzab 33:56)
Study the Seerah
Read, attend, or organize gatherings to learn about the Prophet's life (Seerah). Understanding his character, struggles, and teachings is a form of love (Mahabbah) and worship. His biography is the most inspiring story in human history.
Fast on Monday
Following the Prophet's own practice, fasting on Mondays is a Sunnah act that honors his birth. He said: 'That is the day I was born.' (Muslim). This is the most authentic way to follow his example in marking this day.
Give Charity
Express gratitude for the blessing of the Prophet ﷺ by giving Sadaqah (charity) in his honor. The Prophet ﷺ was the most generous of all people, especially in Ramadan and on blessed occasions.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Mawlid al-Nabi 2026?
Mawlid al-Nabi 2026 falls on approximately Tuesday, August 25, 2026 (12 Rabi al-Awwal 1448 AH).
What is Mawlid al-Nabi?
Mawlid al-Nabi (مولد النبي) refers to the observance of the birthday of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, who was born on 12 Rabi al-Awwal in approximately 570 CE. It is also the date on which he passed away (in 632 CE). Muslims worldwide use this occasion to reflect on the Prophet's life, teachings, and character — the perfect example (Uswah Hasanah) for all Muslims.
Is celebrating Mawlid al-Nabi permitted in Islam?
Scholars differ on the ruling of Mawlid celebrations. Some scholars permit gatherings for praising the Prophet ﷺ, sending salawat (blessings), and learning about his Seerah (biography). Others consider it a religious innovation (Bid'ah) not practiced by the Companions. All scholars agree, however, that loving the Prophet ﷺ, studying his Seerah, and sending salawat upon him are acts of great virtue at all times.
What is the best way to honor the Prophet on Mawlid?
All scholars agree on these acts of worship: increase sending salawat (blessings) upon the Prophet ﷺ, read and study his Seerah (biography), follow his Sunnah more diligently, fast on Mondays (as the Prophet ﷺ did, saying 'that is the day I was born'), give charity, and gather to learn about his noble character and teachings.