Dubai Culture Celebrates "Hag Al Laila" with Heritage-Inspired Festivities
Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) is set to bring the spirit of "Hag Al Laila" to life with a vibrant lineup of creative activities across its venues from February 11 to 16. The celebrations aim to showcase the significance of this cherished Emirati tradition, highlighting its cultural beauty and deep-rooted presence in the community. By engaging younger generations, Dubai Culture seeks to preserve and promote local heritage on a global stage.
As part of the festivities, Al Shindagha Museum, the UAE’s largest heritage museum, will partner with Kinder to host a series of immersive events from February 14 to 16. Children, dressed in traditional attire, will embark on guided cultural tours through the historic Al Shindagha district, joyfully singing heritage songs while collecting sweets from neighborhood homes. The area will also feature interactive workshops and artistic displays inspired by "Hag Al Laila" goodie bags and Emirati sweets. Adding a modern touch, Kinder will offer an engaging digital experience where children can design their own Ramadan characters on iPads, with their creations displayed on a large screen. A total of 400 kilograms of Kinder chocolate will be distributed during the event. Visitors will also have the chance to explore the museum’s exhibitions and delve into Dubai’s rich history and cultural legacy.
The Etihad Museum will further enhance the celebrations on February 15 and 16 with a packed program of cultural and interactive activities celebrating local customs. A highlight will be the "Museum Shop" experience, which recreates the nostalgic charm of a traditional grocery store stocked with classic Emirati sweets. Guests will also enjoy a special performance by the "Basmat Choir," featuring traditional "Hag Al Laila" songs, timeless Arabic classics, and Gulf melodies. The event will include heritage-themed workshops, artistic performances, and film screenings that emphasize identity and belonging. Meanwhile, the "Our Books Cultural Center" will captivate audiences with storytelling sessions that bring to life Emirati folktales reflecting community values and cultural unity. Visitors can also take part in traditional games and admire "Eternal Gates," an art installation by Emirati artist Abdullah Al Neyadi, inspired by historic Emirati door designs.
At Etihad Museum, a dedicated space will be set up to showcase traditional Emirati cuisine alongside a special exhibition of creative works by local talents. This initiative aims to empower artists and entrepreneurs by providing them with a platform to present their crafts, reinforcing Dubai’s creative and cultural industries.
Dubai Public Libraries will also open their doors to school students, offering them a chance to celebrate "Hag Al Laila" with a series of engaging activities across multiple branches, including Al Twar, Al Mankhool, Hatta, Hor Al Anz, and Al Rashidiya. Highlights include a traditional games corner, heritage photography and henna stations, a nostalgic "Old Souq" setup, and food stalls showcasing classic Emirati treats. Children will enjoy storytelling sessions featuring Emirati folklore and interactive lessons on the Emirati dialect.
Adding to the excitement, the Dubai Club for People of Determination will host a series of interactive workshops on February 19. Key activities include bracelet-making, bag decoration, and a heritage-themed art competition, all led by a team of expert instructors.
With a rich program of cultural festivities, Dubai Culture’s "Hag Al Laila" celebrations promise to immerse visitors in the beauty of Emirati traditions while fostering a deeper appreciation for the nation’s vibrant heritage.
