World Hijab Day is observed every year on February 1 to honor Muslim women who wear the hijab. It is also a day to urge women of various origins and beliefs to try on the hijab and see what it is like to wear it. Muslim women maintain their modesty by wearing the hijab. Many also use them to safeguard themselves from male harassment.
History of World Hijab Day
The hijab is a head and chest veil worn by Muslim women, usually when they are around males not part of their close family. The term ‘hijab’ means ‘partition’ or ‘curtain,’ despite its appearance as a headscarf. Hijabs are fun to wear because they come in a range of colors and styles. Although women are only required to wear a hijab in the company of men who are not members of their close family, many Muslim women prefer to wear a hijab as a means of promoting cultural solidarity. Some others make the choice based on their perception of the hijab as a religious requirement.
On February 1, 2013, Nazma Khan declared the first World Hijab Day. Khan is a Muslim woman from New York City. By allowing all women to try wearing the hijab for a day, she hoped to promote religious understanding and tolerance.
When Khan was a child in New York City, she faced a lot of prejudice because she wore her headscarf to school, particularly after the 9/11 attacks. She hoped that by establishing this day, she would be able to put an end to this form of discrimination. World Hijab Day is currently celebrated in 190 countries across the world.
In 2017, New York State declared World Hijab Day, and Theresa May attended an event commemorating the occasion at the House of Commons. In 2021, the Philippines’ House of Representatives designated February 1 as National Hijab Day to foster better understanding and acceptance of the Islamic tradition.
World Hijab Day timeline
Western clothing remains in use in several Muslim nations.
More conservative traditional clothing such as the hijab, abaya, niqab, and jilbab replace western options.
Nazma Khan launches the first Hijab Day celebrations.
World Hijab Day is commemorated in New York.
The Philippines House of Representatives recognizes February 1 as World Hijab Day.
World Hijab Day FAQs
Is the hijab a must in Islam?
Modern Muslim academics feel that adhering to the hijab restrictions is required by Islamic law despite several strong claims that wearing the hijab is a matter of choice.
Do all hijabs look the same?
Hijabs are available in a variety of patterns, materials, colors, and designs.
What is a burka?
A burka is the most concealing Islamic garment, covering the entire face and body. Burka wearers have their faces completely veiled and their eyes covered by a mesh cloth. The mesh allows the wearer to see through it, but it conceals the eyes.
How to Observe World Hijab Day
Learn about why the hijab is worn
Wearing a hijab is rooted in sacred religious beliefs. Learn more about its significance today.
Learn more about Islam
This holiday is also an opportunity to learn more about Islam. Other types of coverings to learn about include the chador, shayla, burka, khimar, and niqab.
Post on social media
Share the information you’ve learned on your social media accounts. Use the hashtag #WorldHijabDay to show your support.
5 Facts About Hijabs That Will Blow Your Mind
Hard to please
Women who wear hijabs often find shopping for new clothing daunting because of the need to find a matching hijab for each outfit.
Infinite
There are more ways to wear a hijab than teams in professional sports.
Modesty is key
Hijab in Arabic means ‘cover,’ and generally means being modest.
Beyond the physical
The hijab represents far more than the physical accessory; it also represents diligence and devotion to Islam.
To hijab or not to hijab
Except for countries such as Iran and Saudi Arabia, wearing the hijab is a matter of choice.
Why World Hijab Day is Important
Raising awareness about crucial issues
World Hijab Day aims to create awareness on issues affecting Muslim women all over the world. It sheds light on the effects of public perception on their daily lives.
Setting the record straight
It is an opportunity to challenge common misconceptions surrounding the hijab. The celebration makes the hijab relatable to people outside the Islamic faith.
Supporting Muslim women
World Hijab Day is an opportunity for people of all races and religions to show support for Muslim women. We love that society can come together and celebrate different religions.
World Hijab Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | February 1 | Saturday |
| 2026 | February 1 | Sunday |
| 2027 | February 1 | Monday |
| 2028 | February 1 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | February 1 | Thursday |
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