Dubai’s Global Village is gearing up to celebrate Hag Al Leila 2026, bringing fireworks, drone shows and traditional Emirati festivities to one of the city’s most popular family destinations.
Observed on the 15th night of Shaban, Hag Al Leila is a much-loved cultural occasion in the UAE that takes place just weeks before Ramadan. In 2026, it falls on February 13, but Global Village has planned multiple days of celebrations to make sure visitors don’t miss out.
From Saturday, January 31 to Tuesday, February 3, the park will host a mix of entertainment, cultural activities and children-focused events designed to reflect the spirit of the occasion — generosity, community and heritage.
For many families in Dubai, Hag Al Leila is not just a tradition. It’s a feeling. And Global Village is once again turning that feeling into a shared experience for residents and visitors alike.
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Hag Al Leila in Dubai
Hag Al Leila is deeply rooted in Emirati culture. Traditionally, children dress in colourful outfits, carry small embroidered bags and go around neighbourhoods collecting sweets and nuts from neighbours. Homes are decorated, elders share stories, and the sense of community is strong.
In today’s Dubai, where cultures blend and communities are diverse, the celebration has grown beyond neighbourhoods. Schools, malls and major attractions now mark the occasion, helping younger generations — Emirati and expat — understand its meaning.
That’s where Dubai Global Village Hag Al Leila 2026 celebrations play an important role. They recreate the warmth of the tradition on a larger scale, making it accessible to thousands of families in one place.
Last year marked the first time Global Village officially joined Hag Al Leila celebrations, shortly after reopening for Season 30 in October. The response was strong, prompting the destination to bring it back this year with an expanded programme.
Fireworks and drone shows planned for opening nights
The biggest draw, as always, will be the nighttime shows.
Global Village has confirmed the following highlights:
- Fireworks show on January 31 at 9 pm
- Drone show on February 1 at 9.05 pm
Both displays will reflect Emirati themes, blending music, visuals and storytelling — a style Global Village is known for during major celebrations.
For families, these evenings offer a chance to enjoy outdoor entertainment before Ramadan begins, when nights tend to slow down and routines shift. It’s also a popular time for residents to meet friends, take photos and soak in the festive atmosphere.
If previous seasons are anything to go by, early arrival is recommended, especially on fireworks nights.
Sweets, heritage majlis and cultural workshops
Hag Al Leila is especially magical for children — and Global Village hasn’t forgotten that.
From January 31 to February 3, the park will host sweets distribution events for children, echoing the traditional practice of collecting treats on this special night. Expect plenty of smiles, colourful setups and excited little visitors.
Alongside this, Global Village will host:
- Heritage majlis spaces inspired by traditional Emirati homes
- Seasonal decorations reflecting local customs and folklore
- Creative workshops focused on Emirati culture and crafts
- Interactive activities that explain the significance of Hag Al Leila in a simple, engaging way
These experiences allow families to slow down, explore, and connect with the cultural side of the celebration — not just the entertainment.
For parents looking for meaningful things to do with children in Dubai, this blend of fun and learning is a big draw.
Meet Global Village characters and enjoy family-friendly fun
Adding to the festive vibe, younger visitors will also get the chance to meet Global Village’s popular characters during the celebrations.
Global Village will host character interactions throughout the event days, giving children something to look forward to between shows, workshops and sweets collection.
This makes the celebration more relaxed for families, allowing them to explore pavilions, enjoy food stalls, and take in the ambience without feeling rushed.
It’s this balance — culture, entertainment and family time — that continues to make Global Village a go-to spot during seasonal celebrations.
Ticket prices and entry details for visitors
Global Village has confirmed that ticket prices remain unchanged from last season, keeping the event affordable for families.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Dh25 for weekday tickets (Sunday to Thursday, excluding public holidays)
- Dh30 for tickets valid on any day
- Free entry for:
- Children under three
- Seniors aged 65 and above
- People of determination
With school evenings, winter weather and multiple event days, footfall is expected to be high during the Hag Al Leila period.
Visitors planning to attend fireworks or drone shows are advised to arrive early to avoid queues and secure good viewing spots.
A cultural celebration ahead of Ramadan
As Dubai prepares for Ramadan, events like Hag Al Leila offer a moment to pause, celebrate and reconnect with tradition.
At Global Village, the occasion becomes more than a single night. It turns into a shared cultural experience — one that brings together Emirati families, long-term residents and visitors discovering the tradition for the first time.
For many, it’s also a reminder of why Dubai continues to stand out: modern, fast-paced, yet deeply respectful of its roots.
With fireworks, drone shows, sweets for children and Emirati cultural activities, Dubai Global Village Hag Al Leila 2026 celebrations promise a warm, festive lead-up to Ramadan.
Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or out-of-town guests, it’s an event that blends tradition with entertainment — and one worth adding to your calendar.
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