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.
