Sipu Jha
As the Islamic lunar month of Sha‘ban reaches its midpoint this year, the Emirati tradition of Haq Al Laila (a joyous evening of community, generosity and spiritual reflection) has again come into focus. Earlier this week, the UAE Council for Fatwa issued a religious clarification (fatwa) on whether observing Haq Al Laila is permissible under Islamic law and its response has now become one of the most talked-about topics among families, faith communities and cultural commentators across the emirates.
What is Haq Al Laila in the UAE?
Haq Al Laila, sometimes spelled Hag Al Laila or known in other Gulf countries under similar names like Gargee’aan, is a cultural celebration observed on the night between the 14th and 15th days of Sha‘ban, about two weeks before Ramadan begins. It is a night rich in family fun with children in traditional dresses going door-to-door asking for sweets and small gifts, households preparing goodie bags and communities hosting heritage events that blend activity with shared memory.
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