Dubai: Emirati families and children across the UAE celebrated Hag Al Laila yesterday, by exchanging sweets and memories of the occasion, which has been celebrated in the same fashion for generations.
Hag Al Laila is an annual occasion in the middle of Sha'aban, the eighth month in the Islamic Hijri calendar. As per tradition, people in the UAE prepare for the arrival of Ramadan two weeks in advance in mid-Sha'aban. In the late afternoon, children go knocking on their neighbours' doors, asking for small offerings by saying ‘Atoona Hag Al Laila', which means "Give us sweets for tonight".
Many families had thronged groceries and shops that sold traditional sweets and nuts in the past two days to prepare for Hag Al Laila.
Various shopping malls, hotels and government departments also celebrated the occasion.
Children, dressed in elaborate traditional costumes and carrying UAE flags, greeted visitors at the Mirdif City Centre's Hag Al Laila celebrations on Sunday.
The event was hosted in conjunction with the Ministry of Social Affairs, to educate visitors on the importance of this religious occasion.
Gifts
A traditional show was organised in the mall's Central Galleria to observe the annual Islamic celebration. Children gave complimentary gifts of chocolate and sweets to visitors and representatives from the Ministry of Social Affairs.
Yousuf Al Ali, vice-president of Mirdif City Centre said: "It is important to us to respect and celebrate our ancient traditions and Hag Al Laila is an especially important celebration as we look towards Ramadan.
"We are honoured to partner with the Ministry of Social Affairs to spread the message of this important Islamic occasion. We are certain our visitors enjoyed a taste of Islamic tradition when they visited the mall."
