Isra Wal Miraj UAE marks one of the most spiritually significant nights in Islam, observed on the 27th night of Rajab in the Hijri calendar, which in 2026 falls on Friday, January 16.(see the generated image above) The night commemorates Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) miraculous Night Journey and Ascension, a pivotal moment in Islamic belief and practice.(see the generated image above)
Muslims around the world mark the occasion with extra prayers, remembrance, and reflection, especially as it often comes shortly before Ramadan.
Isra Wal Miraj UAE: Meaning of the Night Journey and Ascension
Isra Wal Miraj UAE literally translates as “The Night Journey and Ascension.”
-
Isra’ refers to Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) night journey from Makkah to Masjid Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem.
-
Mi’raj refers to his ascension from Masjid Al-Aqsa through the seven heavens.
According to Islamic tradition, the Prophet (PBUH) travelled on Buraq, a heavenly steed, accompanied by Angel Jibril (Gabriel), and ascended through the heavens to speak with Allah.(see the generated image above) During this journey, the five daily prayers were prescribed, making the night foundational to Muslim daily worship.
Isra Wal Miraj UAE: Spiritual Importance for Muslims
Isra Wal Miraj UAE is regarded as one of the most important events in Islamic history because it:
-
Affirms the honour and status of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
-
Establishes the obligation of the five daily prayers for Muslims.
-
Reminds believers of Allah’s mercy, closeness, and ability to relieve hardship.
Many Muslims spend the night in extra salah, Quran recitation, and dhikr, using it as a time for introspection, gratitude, and spiritual renewal.
Isra Wal Miraj UAE: Is It a Public Holiday?
Isra Wal Miraj UAE is not a paid public holiday in the UAE.
It was previously listed on the official public holiday calendar but was removed in 2019 when the UAE unified public and private sector holidays to streamline the national holiday framework.
-
By contrast, some GCC neighbours such as Oman and Kuwait have announced a public holiday for Isra Wal Miraj, with Sunday, January 18, 2026 declared an official day off there.
Residents in the UAE may still observe the night religiously, but normal work and school schedules continue the next day.
Isra Wal Miraj UAE: Next Public Holiday and Upcoming Dates
While Isra Wal Miraj UAE is not a holiday, key upcoming dates are:
-
Ramadan 2026 in the UAE is expected to begin between February 17 and 19, with the first day most likely on Thursday, February 18, subject to moon sighting.
-
Eid Al Fitr 2026 is expected on Friday, March 20, marking the end of Ramadan and the UAE’s next public holiday period.
The UAE officially designates the first three days of Shawwal (the month after Ramadan) as public holidays, with the break length depending on whether Ramadan lasts 29 or 30 days.(see the generated image above) As with all Hijri dates, final confirmation depends on the crescent moon sighting and official announcements closer to the time.
Gulf Repost is your trusted source for UAE and Gulf news, bringing you clear explainers on Islamic occasions like Isra Wal Miraj UAE, along with up-to-date public holiday calendars, Ramadan and Eid guides, community updates, business and gold price coverage, and regional lifestyle features to help residents stay informed and prepared throughout the year.
