Kuwait and Oman have announced a public holiday on 18 January to mark the sacred night of Lailat al-Miraj, one of the most important occasions in the Islamic calendar. This night, observed on the 27th of Rajab 1447 Hijri, commemorates the miraculous journey of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ from Masjid al-Haram in Mecca to Masjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem, followed by his ascension through the heavens, known as Isra and Mi’raj.

According to astronomers, based on the Hijri calendar, Lailat al-Miraj will fall on the night between 16 and 17 January in the Gregorian calendar. However, the date of observance can vary between countries due to differences in moon sightings.

The governments of Kuwait and Oman have given the day off to allow citizens to devote more time to prayers, Quranic recitation, sending blessings on the Prophet ﷺ, and performing additional acts of worship. In contrast, the United Arab Emirates will not declare a public holiday, but mosques there will organize special prayers and religious gatherings.

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Religious scholars emphasize that Lailat al-Miraj is a profound spiritual occasion for Muslims worldwide, offering a chance to strengthen faith, patience, and trust in Allah. Devotees spend the night engaged in voluntary prayers (nawafil), Quranic recitation, and heartfelt supplications to seek closeness to Allah.

Experts say the night carries timeless lessons about perseverance, devotion, and the miraculous power of faith, making it an essential moment of reflection and spiritual growth for Muslims everywhere.