Dubai Culture Celebrates Hag Al Leila with Interactive Cultural Festivities

Dubai, UAE, 11 February 2025: Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) marks Hag Al Leila, the mid-Sha'ban occasion, with a rich programme of activities across its cultural assets and facilities from 11 to 19 February. This initiative underscores the significance of this cherished tradition, highlighting its beauty, historical value, and deep-rooted presence in the local community. Through these celebrations, Dubai Culture aims to instil national identity in future generations, encouraging them to preserve and promote the UAE's legacy globally.

Al Shindagha Museum, the UAE's largest heritage museum, presents a lineup of Hag Al Leila-themed events in partnership with Kinder from 14 to 16 February. Children will embark on guided 'Hag Al Leila Trails' through Al Shindagha Historic Neighbourhood, dressed in festive attire, singing folk songs, and collecting sweets from heritage houses. They will also enjoy creative workshops across the neighbourhood, featuring art installations inspired by the iconic Hag Al Laila bag and Emirati treats.

Adding a modern twist, Kinder will offer an interactive experience, blending education and entertainment, where children can use iPads to design their own Ramadan characters, which will then be projected onto a large screen. Throughout the event, 400 kilogrammes of Kinder chocolate will be distributed. Visitors would also have the chance to explore the museum's pavilions and exhibitions, offering a deeper dive into Dubai's history and cultural heritage.

Meanwhile, Etihad Museum will present an immersive programme celebrating local customs on 15 and 16 February. Visitors can be transported back in time at 'Dukkan Al-Mathaf,' a nostalgic recreation of a traditional Emirati grocery store stocked with classic sweets. The Basma Choir will set the tone with performances of Hag Al Leila songs, alongside Arabic classics and Khaleeji favourites. The agenda includes workshops, entertainment segments, and film screenings, all exploring themes of identity and belonging.

The Kutubna Cultural Center will present a special storytelling segment, bringing Emirati folktales to life, highlighting the values of unity and cultural harmony. Visitors can also experience traditional games and view 'Eternal Gateways,' an art installation by Abdulla Al Neyadi that draws on the intricate designs of old Emirati doors. Etihad Museum will also set up dedicated spaces for visitors to sample local cuisine. Additionally, creatives will be able to exhibit and promote their works, supporting the emirate's creative and cultural industries.

Beyond these venues, Dubai Public Library branches will open their doors to school students, inviting them to celebrate Hag Al Leila across its Al Twar, Al Mankhool, Hatta, Hor Al Anz, and Al Rashidiya branches. Activities include a traditional games corner, henna and photography stations, 'Raa'i Al Sambosa' (Samosa Corner), 'Dukkan Al-Taybeen' (Old School Grocery), and Al Khabbazat (Traditional Bakery Corner).  Additionally, the programme will feature 'Kharareef Yadoh' (Grandmother's Tales) and an Emirati dialect workshop.

The celebrations will extend to Dubai Club for People of Determination on 19 February, where a series of interactive workshops will take place, including bracelet-making, tote bag painting, and a themed drawing competition, all guided by expert facilitators.

Through these dynamic activations, Dubai Culture continues to preserve and promote Emirati heritage, ensuring that time-honoured traditions remain an integral part of the city's cultural landscape.