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Hag Al Laila: When kids come calling

The Hag Al Laila celebrations originated hundreds of years ago and is locally known as Qriqa’an.

Tonight, children across the UAE will roam the streets of the country visiting homes with the message: “Aatona Allah Yutikom, Bait Makkah Yudikum”, which in Arabic means, “Give us and Allah will reward you and help you visit the House of Allah in Makkah”. Their melodic choir will mark the beginning of the midnight celebrations of Sha’aban, better known as Hag Al Laila.

The Hag Al Laila celebrations originated hundreds of years ago and is locally known as Qriqa’an. Sweets are given out to visiting children as they go from house to house carrying their message.

Even government departments in the country mark the occasion by distributing sweets. The occasion serves as a testament to the strong family bonds and values in the country.

Emirati Mohammed Al Awadhi said: “These celebrations precede the holy month of Ramadan and the occasion is marked on Sha’aban 15 ... Hag Al Laila is one the several customs and traditions we inherited from our ancestors. The occasion links the children to their heritage, and creates a sense of connect to the past. It also indicates family solidarity, which distinguishes the Muslims.”

Several Emirati designers have designed bags in which sweets are traditionally collected.

Dana bint Baiat, a designer, said: “These bags have drawn a large number of people and some even requested special designs on their bags.”

malzarooni@khaleejtimes.com