Hag Al Laila (“حق الليلة”, Gift of the Night) is one of the most beloved cultural celebrations in the United Arab Emirates, especially among children and families. Observed on the night of the 15th of Sha’ban, shortly before the holy month of Ramadan, this tradition marks the emotional and spiritual beginning of a sacred period. Often described as the sweetest introduction to Ramadan, Hag Al Laila reflects joy, generosity, and the passing of customs from one generation to the next. Through colorful clothing, traditional songs, and baskets filled with sweets, the celebration continues to play a meaningful role in modern Emirati life.
The roots of Hag Al Laila stretch back centuries across the Gulf region, long before the formation of the modern UAE. Coastal and desert communities observed this night as a time to strengthen social bonds and prepare spiritually for Ramadan. Children would gather in groups and walk from house to house, joyfully calling out the traditional phrase “Atoona Hag Al Laila” meaning “For this night, give us sweets”. Families welcomed them warmly, offering dates, nuts, and homemade treats as symbols of goodwill, abundance, and hospitality. Over time, this simple yet meaningful custom became deeply embedded in Emirati culture, surviving urbanization and modernization while preserving its original spirit.
Hag Al Laila embodies values that are central to Emirati society, including generosity, tolerance, kindness, and community solidarity. It sets the tone for Ramadan by encouraging giving and compassion, qualities that are fundamental to the holy month. For children, the celebration represents excitement and belonging, while for adults it serves as a reminder of cultural continuity and shared responsibility. Families often prepare days in advance, purchasing a wide collection of sweets, nuts, small toys, and gifts to ensure that every visiting child leaves with a smile. This collective effort transforms neighborhoods into spaces of warmth and connection, where doors are opened not just physically, but socially and emotionally.
In today’s UAE, Hag Al Laila continues to thrive in both traditional neighborhoods and modern urban settings. Children dress in traditional Emirati clothing and carry decorated cloth bags or baskets as they walk together, singing familiar verses and collecting treats. Schools, cultural centers, and public venues organize celebrations to introduce younger generations and expatriate families to the tradition, ensuring its meaning is widely understood and respected. Despite the changing landscape of cities, the core experience remains unchanged: laughter in the streets, welcoming households, and the sound of children’s voices announcing the arrival of a cherished night.
Sweets remain at the heart of Hag Al Laila, symbolizing happiness, generosity, and the sweetness of the days to come. Traditionally, children received dates, roasted nuts, and simple homemade candies, while in modern times chocolates and a variety of international confectionery are often included as well. The way these treats are presented has also become an important part of the celebration. Many families carefully prepare them in colorful fabric bags, small baskets, or boxes woven from palm fronds, adding a festive and traditional touch to the experience.
The exchange of small gifts during Hag Al Laila plays a meaningful role in the traditional culture. Children often wear traditional Emirati clothing, specially chosen for the night, and may receive items such as embroidered bags, small toys, incense sets, or decorative household pieces. These gifts are not valued for their material worth but for the joy they bring and the sense of care and belonging they create. Together, sweets and simple presents transform Hag Al Laila into a warm and memorable experience that strengthens family bonds and preserves the spirit of generosity that defines the tradition.
Hag Al Laila does more than delight children; it gently introduces families and communities to the deeper meaning of Ramadan. The celebration encourages reflection on values such as gratitude, self-discipline, prayer, family unity, and compassion for others. It becomes an educational moment as well, helping younger generations understand why Ramadan is observed and how it shapes daily life and social behavior. In this way, Hag Al Laila serves as both a joyful festivity and a cultural bridge to a month centered on spiritual growth and social responsibility.
The enduring beauty of Hag Al Laila lies in its simplicity and emotional depth. It does not depend on grand ceremonies or formal events, but on sincere human interaction, generosity, and shared happiness. In an age defined by technology and fast-paced routines, this tradition offers a rare moment of connection between neighbors, families, and generations. Its ability to adapt to modern lifestyles while preserving its core values ensures that it remains relevant and deeply loved.
Hag Al Laila stands as a living symbol of Emirati heritage, uniting history, culture, and community in one joyful night. From children singing at doorsteps to families preparing baskets of sweets and gifts, the tradition reflects the values that define the UAE’s social fabric. As Ramadan approaches each year, Hag Al Laila continues to light the way with kindness, generosity, and togetherness, reminding everyone that the strongest traditions are those rooted in the simple act of giving.
The UAE’s rich history is rooted in trade and tied to Islam. Its unique location between Europe and the Far East became the crucial factor in it's growth into the world's largest trading hubs. Throughout the ages, these lands had attracted merchants from India and China, and were prized by Europeans, in particular the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British.
After the discovery of oil and the formation of the Emirates, the wise rulers began the rapid development of the country's economy, shaping it into what it is today. Though small in size, the UAE quickly became an important player in regional and international affairs.
Although it's growth and development, UAE heritage have not been forgotten - on the contrary, is still well-respected among the nationals. History and culture of local people can be felt in the legendary hospitality of local hotels, architecture of modern skyscrapers and openness and kindness in living among the multinational community.
Here you can read various articles about UAE heritage, history and culture, and better understand, why this country's development became such a success throughout the years.
