Latest news with #HagAlLaila
Khaleej Times
14-02-2025
- General
- Khaleej Times
UAE: From eyeglass candy to 'rabbit' chocolate; which Hag Al Laila sweets remain popular
Mohammed Abdullah is a file clerk at Mohammed Ali Askarpur store which started operating in 1963. For him, the deeply rooted Emirati social tradition of Hag Al Laila remains largely unaffected by modern trends yet it has evolved in terms of the types of sweets people purchase and distribute. Hag Al Lailah, also known as Qargian, takes place on the 15th night of Sha'ban, which occurred on Thursday, February 13, but for many people, the celebration will continue in homes and public spaces during the weekend. This celebration welcomes the imminent arrival of the holy month of Ramadan. In the past 15–20 years, families kept things simple, often distributing individual items like biscuits or packets of Sun Top juice and sweets were handed out individually. In contrast, modern practices have shifted towards more elaborate preparations. Families now opt for pre-packed boxes or bags containing a variety of sweets, carefully organised and presented. This reflects a growing trend towards convenience and presentation, with more effort being made to ensure everything is neatly arranged. Mohammed emphasises that Hag Al Lailah has not been affected by "trending" products to a very far extent. Instead, the focus stays on traditional sweets that have been popular for decades. He lists several classic items that continue to be in demand like: Evolution of traditional sweets and customs Mohammed Al Shamsi owns Hassan Mohammed Al Shamsi and Sons trading store which was his father's before he passed away, and has been operating since 1939. Al Shamsi reflected on the types of sweets that were traditionally popular in earlier times compared to those available today. He noted that in his youth, around 67 years ago, sweets were simple and limited in variety, including essential items like nuts (such as almonds, peanuts, and chickpeas) and a few types of local candies. These traditional sweets were an integral part of Hag Al Laila celebrations and have endured to some extent, but their prevalence has declined with the introduction of modern varieties. Al Shamsi explained that today, the market offers a staggering array of over 70 types of sweets, including flavoured ice pops, chocolate, and biscuits, which were not available in the past. Changing tastes Al Shamsi discussed how children's tastes and preferences have evolved due to the increased availability of diverse sweet options. With over 70 varieties, each child develops their preferences for specific flavours and types of candy. This abundance has significantly influenced how people celebrate and share sweets during Haq Al Lailah and other occasions, demonstrating a blend of modernity and tradition. Al Shamsi noted that the "Hag Al-Lailah" period sees a significant rise in demand for sweets, especially in the days leading up to the event, with sales peaking over the weekend. Despite the change, Al Shamsi still emphasised the importance of teaching children that this practice is deeply rooted and passed down through generations. Many families also open their homes to visitors during this time, serving sweets and traditional dishes to keep the heritage alive. Reminiscing on the past Hassan Saifullah Mirza, Public Relations Manager at Saif Mirza & Sons, which has been operating since the 1980s, shared nostalgic memories of celebrating Hag Al Lailah in his childhood. "In our days, we were delighted with simple sweets like Bokmash candy, known for being the eyeglass candy," Mirza recalled. "Things are different now, with so many varieties available. Back then, children would gather for Hag Al Lailah, and if someone came from a well-off family, their mother would sew them a special bag to collect candy. The joy was immense, especially in our neighbourhood, but what truly thrilled us were the visits to the sheikh's houses. They would give us money along with sweets."
Khaleej Times
14-02-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Food safety measures tightened ahead of Hag Al Laila festivities in Ajman
As the middle night of Shaaban arrives, known as Hag Al Laila, the Ajman Municipality and Planning Department has intensified inspection campaigns across food establishments to ensure consumer safety during the high-demand festive period. As families prepare for the traditional celebration, which sees a surge in the consumption of sweets, juices, and festive treats, authorities have ramped up their efforts to verify the quality and safety of food products available in the market. The initiative aims to enforce strict compliance with health standards, ensuring that food handling, storage, and cleanliness measures meet regulatory requirements. "Food safety is a top priority, especially during high-demand seasons like Hag Al Laila. Our intensified inspections and advanced lab testing ensure that food products meet the highest safety standards before reaching consumers. We are working closely with all food establishments to maintain strict compliance, and we urge businesses to uphold best practices to protect public health,' Dr Khaled Moeen Al Hosani, executive director of the Public Health and Environment Sector, told Khaleej Times. He added thay the Public Health Department conducted extensive surveys of local markets, collecting food samples from major commercial centers and supermarkets. Products such as sweets, juices, and promotional offers—typically consumed in large quantities during Hag Al Laila—were subjected to rigorous testing at the municipality's central food laboratories. Using advanced chemical and microbiological analysis, specialists examined the samples for compliance with approved health standards. Tests focused on detecting potential contaminants, harmful additives, and spoilage risks to safeguard public health. Reinforcing consumer confidence Al Hosani noted preliminary findings from the laboratory tests revealed that most food establishments are adhering to safety and quality standards, reinforcing consumer confidence in the emirate's food supply chain. Officials also noted that these inspections are crucial in preventing foodborne illnesses, particularly during periods of increased consumption. Authorities, meanwhile, warned that violators found disregarding food safety regulations would face stringent penalties.
Sharjah 24
13-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah Fort hosts 'Hag Al Laila', promoting UAE traditions.
As stated by Al Askar, "Hag Al Laila" is a much-loved event that preserves Emirati culture while also bringing back fond memories of one's youth. By teaching kids to be thankful and respectful when they get presents from their elders, this ceremony hopes to inculcate traditional values in the next generation. Embracing the rich customs of this longstanding institution, the event at Sharjah Fort offered fascinating games and thrilling competitions ideal for everyone, marking the commencement of the holy month of Ramadan.
Khaleej Times
07-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: Global Village to celebrate tradition of Hag Al Laila for the first time this year
Global Village visitors will have a chance this year to join an event celebrating the Emirati tradition of Hag Al Laila for the first time this year. Hag Al Laila , also known as Qargian, is a deeply-rooted Emirati social tradition which is observed on the 15th night of Sha'ban and falls on Thursday February 13th this year. It is part of observing the approach of the holy month of Ramadan. Various cultural and interactive activities designed for families and children will be held in Global Village from February 13 to February 16, with the aim of highlighting folklore traditions and promoting values of generosity and social solidarity. The event, which will take place between the Main Stage and the Dragon Lake, will include the distribution of traditional sweets, interactive workshops, and traditional performances, as well as meet-and-greet sessions with 'The Nomads' characters in Global Village. The venue will be adorned with decorations inspired by Emirati heritage, including palm fronds, lanterns, and traditional seating areas.
Khaleej Times
07-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: Global Village to celebrate tradition of Hag El Laila for the first time this year
Global Village visitors will have a chance this year to join an event celebrating the Emirati tradition of Hag Al Laila for the first time this year. Hag Al Laila , also known as Qargian, is a deeply-rooted Emirati social tradition which is observed on the 15th night of Sha'ban and falls on Thursday February 13th this year. It is part of observing the approach of the holy month of Ramadan. Various cultural and interactive activities designed for families and children will be held in Global Village from February 13 to February 16, with the aim of highlighting folklore traditions and promoting values of generosity and social solidarity. The event, which will take place between the Main Stage and the Dragon Lake, will include the distribution of traditional sweets, interactive workshops, and traditional performances, as well as meet-and-greet sessions with 'The Nomads' characters in Global Village. The venue will be adorned with decorations inspired by Emirati heritage, including palm fronds, lanterns, and traditional seating areas.
