Hag Al Laila is a joyful Emirati celebration that takes place on the 15th night of Sha’aban. It is a time when children dress in bright traditional clothes, visit homes in their neighbourhoods, and receive sweets and treats. Families decorate their houses, and the air is filled with the scent of delicious Emirati snacks.
This special night is about more than just fun – it reflects the values of generosity, togetherness, and cultural pride. Passed down through generations, Hag Al Laila continues to bring communities closer and keep Emirati heritage alive.
Let’s explore the importance of this generational tradition in the guide below.
- The Tradition
- Importance
- What Happens at Hag Al Laila
- Hag Al Laila at Global Village
- What to Expect
- How to Reach Global Village
- Valuable Tips
- FAQs
Hag Al Laila – The Tradition
Hag Al Laila is a special Emirati culture and heritage passed through generations. It marks the joyful start of Ramadan and brings people together with kindness and happiness. On this night, children go from house to house, singing “Atoona Hag Al Laila,” which means “Give us sweets for this night.”
Their cheerful voices are rewarded with sweets, showing the UAE’s values of sharing, unity and tradition. Families prepare for this night by collecting sweets, nuts, toys and small gifts to share with children.
This celebration brings the community closer and prepares everyone for the holy month of Ramadan, a time of prayer, giving and reflection.
The Importance of Hag Al Laila
Hag Al Laila is more than a fun celebration. It carries deep meaning in Emirati culture. This special night teaches important values that bring people closer and keep traditions alive.
- Sharing and kindness: Giving sweets and small gifts shows the importance of generosity, a key value in Islam and Emirati life.
- Strong community bonds: The event brings families and neighbours together, creating a sense of friendship and unity.
- Keeping traditions alive: Celebrating Hag Al Laila helps pass cultural customs from generation to generation.
- Happiness and gratitude: The night fills homes with joy and excitement, preparing everyone for Ramadan’s peaceful and giving spirit.
What Happens on Hag Al Laila in the UAE?
The event is celebrated on the 15th night of Sha’ban, just before Ramadan. This night, children dress in colourful traditional clothes and visit their neighbours, singing songs and collecting sweets and treats. This celebration fosters community spirit and generosity.
Here’s what happens on Hag al Laila:
Traditional Songs and Sweets
Children go from house to house, singing traditional songs like “Atoona Hag Al Laila,” which means “For this night, give us sweets.” In return, neighbours give them sweets, nuts, and small gifts, reflecting the values of sharing and kindness.
Traditional Clothing
On this occasion, boys typically wear the traditional Emirati’ kandura’, while girls wear colourful dresses specifically made for the event. With these outfits, the children often accompany their dresses with cloth bags known as ‘Al-Khreeṭah’ to collect sweets.
Home Decorations
Families prepare for Ramadan with home decor and match the decor with vibrant sweets and traditional dresses. The tables are filled with trays of goodie bags, nuts, and treats for children.
Some families also set up traditional tents to bring everyone together for the celebration. These gatherings include storytelling, music,c and poetry recitals, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. It’s
Community Celebrations
In modern times, communities and organisations host events to mark Hag Al Laila, featuring traditional performances, interactive workshops, and sweets distribution. These activities aim to educate younger generations about Emirati traditions and strengthen social bonds.
Hag Al Laila – Global Village Celebrations 2025
For the first time, Global Village will celebrate Hag Al Laila from February 13 to 16, 2025. Visitors can join this cultural festivity to experience the UAE’s rich heritage and the spirit of generosity as families prepare for Ramadan.
Global Village will transform into a lively festive space with decorations inspired by Emirati heritage, including palm fronds, lanterns, and traditional seating areas. The event will take place between the Main Stage and Dragon Lake, where visitors can enjoy cultural performances, workshops, and sweet giveaways.
For children, special meet-and-greet sessions with ‘The Nomads’ characters will add extra fun. This celebration also supports the UAE’s 2025 ‘Year of Community’ initiative, launched by President Sheikh Mohamed. It aims to educate younger generations about Emirati customs and values.
What to Expect at Global Village at Hag Al Laila
Here’s what you can expect at this beautiful event at the Global Village – 2025:
A world of sweets
Sweets are a big part of Hag Al Laila, and Global Village will have many delicious treats from different countries. Visitors can enjoy Middle Eastern favourites like baklava and halwa, along with chocolates, gummies and other tasty candies.
Beautiful Gift Packaging
People can pack their sweets and gifts in special packaging available in different stalls at the Global Village. You can choose from palm-frond baskets, wooden boxes, or colourful bags. These beautiful wrappings add a festive touch and will make your gifts look even more special.
Traditional Emirati Clothing
Visitors can buy stunning traditional Emirati outfits from the Al Sanaa and Khalifa Foundation pavilions. Choices include embroidered jalabiyas, elegant abayas, and classic kanduras, which are perfect for celebrating the occasion.
Thoughtful Gifts For Loved Ones
There will be many unique gifts to choose from, including incense sets, pretty crockery, stylish handbags and decorative pieces. These items make wonderful presents that reflect Emirati culture and are great for decorating your home during Ramadan.
Embracing The Spirit Of Ramadan
This celebration is not just about fun—it also reminds people of the values of Ramadan. It is a time for reflection, prayer, family and giving to others. This celebration brings communities together and prepares them for the holy month ahead.
How to Reach Global Village for The Event
Global Village in Dubai is a popular destination that you can reach by bus, car, or taxi. Here’s how:
By Bus
Dubai buses operate at different routes to Global Village:
- Route 102: Departs from Rashidiya Metro Station every 60 minutes.
- Route 103: Starts at Union Bus Station, passing through Al Rebat Street, with buses every 40 minutes.
- Route 104: Leaves from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, stopping at Al Jafiliya Metro Station every 60 minutes.
- Route 106: Begins at Mall of the Emirates Bus Station, running every 60 minutes.
These services operate daily from 03:15 PM to 11:15 PM, with a travel time of about 30 minutes. Also, here is a guide to the bus routes of Dubai for a better understanding.
By Car
If you are driving, take Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) and follow the signs to Global Village. The venue offers over 20,000 parking spaces, including free and paid options. Valet parking is also available for AED 150.
By Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Dubai. Services like Uber, Careem, and Dubai Taxi Corporation can take you directly to Global Village. Fares vary depending on your starting point.
Valuable Tips for Children for Hag Al Laila
The following are some valuable tips to ensure safety and kindness at this beautiful event:
- Always have a trusted adult with children to keep them safe.
- If the streets are dark, children should carry a small flashlight.
- Walk on the side of the road to stay away from cars.
- Check sweets before eating to avoid allergens or hidden small objects.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
- Look both ways before crossing the street and stay close to the group.
- Let younger children take their sweets first and wait patiently.
- Remind children to say “please” and “thank you” when receiving sweets.
FAQs
Hag Al Laila is an Emirati tradition celebrated on the 15th night of Shaban. The kids dress up in traditional clothes, whereas the elders give goodie bags, sweets, or nuts.
Girls dress in colourful outfits, often paired with matching bags and headdresses. Boys typically wear a kandura, sometimes adding a headdress or waistcoat and carrying a bag for their treats.
Also called Qargian, this event is celebrated on the 15th night of Sha’aban. This year in 2025, it falls on Thursday, February 13, and marks the anticipation of the holy month of Ramadan.
Hag Al Laila is more than just a night of sweets and celebrations. It reflects Emirati values, bringing people together through sharing, tradition, and joy. As this tradition continues, it keeps the spirit of the community alive and prepares hearts for the blessings of Ramadan.
Apart from Hag Al Laila, here is a list of all the important Dubai events you can learn about.
