The past two days have demonstrated the effectiveness of the UAE’s coordinated national response system, with authorities acting swiftly and in full alignment with established readiness standards.

Ali Saeed Al Neyadi, Chairman of the National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA), said developments were addressed with a high degree of professionalism and seamless coordination across all relevant entities.

“Over the past two days, the UAE has witnessed a coordinated national response involving all relevant authorities,” Al Neyadi said, noting that actions were taken under approved national frameworks and precise operational procedures.

Coordinated national response activated

Al Neyadi confirmed that the National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management framework was activated from the outset, with operational readiness levels elevated based on continuous and comprehensive risk assessments.

He said these measures ensured:

• Protection of lives
• Safeguarding of national assets
• Uninterrupted continuity of essential services

“What has been achieved reflects sustained institutional investment in preparedness, proactive planning, joint national exercises, and the development of resilient capabilities designed to respond effectively to a range of scenarios,” he added.

Field teams recognised for professionalism

The NCEMA Chairman recognised field teams who carried out their duties with professionalism and a strong sense of national responsibility.

Their efforts, he noted, reflected:

• High levels of preparedness
• Disciplined coordination
• Clearly defined operational roles

He said the response reaffirmed the national system’s capability to act swiftly and in an organised manner under approved plans and precise procedures.

Community awareness praised

Al Neyadi also acknowledged the awareness and commitment shown by citizens and residents.

“The cohesion, trust and cooperation demonstrated by the community reflect the spirit of responsibility that characterises the UAE,” he said.

He added that the alignment between institutions and society remains a cornerstone of national preparedness and strengthens the country’s ability to navigate challenges with confidence and composure.

Preparedness at the highest levels

“This phase has once again demonstrated that the UAE possesses a robust and mature national readiness system operating under a clear governance framework and coordinated response structure at the highest levels,” he said.

Authorities, he added, continue to monitor developments around the clock, conduct ongoing assessments and implement necessary measures to maintain the highest levels of preparedness.

“The UAE is confident in emerging from this period stronger and more resilient, supported by the vision of its leadership, the strength of its institutions, and the awareness of its society.”

Public urged to rely on official sources

In closing, Al Neyadi emphasised that the safety, security and stability of the community remain an absolute national priority.

He urged the public to:

• Adhere to official guidance
• Rely exclusively on approved sources for information
• Refrain from sharing unverified content

Authorities will continue to communicate updates transparently as developments unfold, he said.

Source: Wam

The UAE Fatwa Council has issued an official religious ruling confirming that celebrating the night of the middle of Shaban, locally known as Hag Al Laila (Haq Al Laila), is religiously permissible, while also outlining its spiritual significance and recommended forms of worship.

The ruling was issued as part of the council’s efforts to unify fatwas at the national level, offering clear guidance on both religious observance and the long-standing social customs associated with the night, which falls 15 days before Ramadan.

What is allowed

In its statement, the council affirmed that celebrating Hag Al Laila according to local custom is allowed under Islamic law, provided it does not contradict the principles of Sharia.

“It is permissible to celebrate the night of the middle of Shaban, known to us as Haq Al Laila, according to the custom of the people,” the council said.

“It is also permissible to give gifts on this night with the intention of bringing joy and happiness,  especially to children, relatives and neighbours, to strengthen community ties and family relations.”

The council explained that such customs fall under the legal principle that originally, customs are permissible, particularly when they promote goodwill, affection and social cohesion.

Worship on the night is recommended, not obligatory

The fatwa also highlighted the virtue of the night of mid-Shaban, citing narrations from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), his Companions, and respected Islamic scholars.

According to the council, it is recommended (mustahabb), but not obligatory, to observe the night through acts of worship such as:

• Voluntary prayers
• Remembrance (dhikr)
• Supplication (dua)
• Recitation of the Holy Qur’an

Religious principles supporting Hag Al Laila

The UAE Fatwa Council outlined five key principles supporting the permissibility of celebrating Hag Al Laila, including:

• The permissibility of customs in worldly matters
• The principles that are not prohibited by Sharia are allowed
• The importance of spreading joy and strengthening social bonds
• Established narrations on the virtue of the night
• Scholarly recommendations to observe the night with worship

When is Hag Al Laila in 2026?

The night of mid-Shaban is expected to begin on the evening of Monday, February 2, subject to the sighting of the moon.

Across the UAE, families traditionally mark the occasion by children going door-to-door chanting “Atoona Hag Al Laila” (Give us sweets for this night), while exchanging treats and celebrating community togetherness ahead of Ramadan.

UAE celebrations and events

Several venues are set to host Hag Al Laila festivities this year:

• Global Village: Celebrations until February 3
• Expo City Dubai: Family-friendly activities from 4pm to 10pm

A night of joy and reflection

Religious scholars note that the night of mid-Shaban is a time for families to share sweets and smiles, while also turning towards prayer, forgiveness and remembrance in preparation for Ramadan.

Ajman has announced the establishment of a new Rental Dispute Resolution Centre, aimed at streamlining landlord-tenant disputes and strengthening stability in the emirate’s real estate sector.

His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, has issued Law No. (1) of 2026, formally creating the centre and replacing the existing rental disputes committee.

Clearer, Faster Rental Dispute Resolution

The new law introduces transparent and clearly defined mechanisms for reviewing and adjudicating rental disputes, with the objective of:

• Protecting the rights of landlords and tenants
• Enhancing confidence in Ajman’s property market
• Supporting a stable and attractive investment environment

Jurisdiction and Scope

The specialised centre will have authority over all rental-related disputes between landlords and tenants, including:

• Residential and commercial properties
• Properties located within free zones

Cases will be handled using procedures aligned with recognised legal and judicial standards, ensuring fairness and consistency.

Boosting Market Stability

Officials said the new centre is designed to:

• Speed up dispute resolution
• Reduce litigation timelines
• Ensure swift and effective justice

The move is expected to contribute to social and economic stability in Ajman’s leasing and real estate sector, while reinforcing investor confidence.