Jumeirah hotels are today celebrating mid-Sha’ban, which falls on the 15th of the Muslim month of Sha’ban. “Hag Al Leilah” is the traditional name for this night of festivities with family and neighbours.

“Hag Al Leilah” is a custom that has passed down from previous generations. In the late afternoon, children go knocking on their neighbours’ doors, asking for small offerings with the phrase ‘A’atoona Hag Al Leilah’, which means “Give us sweets for tonight”.

Throughout the day, colleagues in the lobby of Mina A’ Salam, Al Qasr and Jumeirah Bab Al Shams handed out sweets and nuts to children and guests. A sign was also posted with a short explanation in English and Arabic of the concept behind “Hag Al Leilah”.

The Jumeirah hotels’ initiative contributed to society by highlighting the UAE culture; encouraging children in the UAE to rediscover their heritage in a beautiful atmosphere, and educating guests about the traditions of the country. 

See all Jumeirah Group World Travel Awards winners here:
Burj Al Arab - 2010 Middle East’s Leading Hotel, 2010 Middle East’s Leading Luxury Hotel, 2010 Dubai’s Leading Hotel
Jumeirah Beach Hotel - 2009 Dubai’s Leading Resort
Emirates Towers - 2010 Middle East’s Leading Business Hotel
Madinat Jumeirah - 2009 UAE’s Leading Resort, 2009 Dubai’s Leading Conference Hotel
Jumeirah Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa - 2010 UAE’s Leading Hideaway Resort
Jumeirah Carlton Tower - 2006 England’s Leading Business Hotel
Jumeirah Essex House - 2010 North America’s Leading Business Hotel, 2010 United States’ Leading Business Hotel