When is Lailat ul Miraj in 2026?

Lailat ul Miraj 2026 will be observed on the night of Thursday, January 15, 2026 (27th Rajab 1447 AH).

Is Lailat ul Miraj a public holiday

Lailat ul Miraj is not a public holiday in most countries, including Pakistan. However, in some Muslim-majority countries like Indonesia, Iran and Kuwait it is observed as an official public holiday with schools and government offices closed.

What is Al Isra’ Wal Mi’raj (27th Rajab)

Al Isra wal Miraj marks the night journey and Ascension of the Prophet (peace be upon him), commemorated on the 27th Rajab. Known also as Shab-e-Miraj, this miraculous event began in Makkah and took the Prophet to Masjid Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem, and then to heaven. The event is divided into two parts: Isra’ and Mi’raj, both indicating different stages of this divine journey through the heavens.

Spoken about in Arabic, Bangla, Persian, Iranian, Pakistani, and Indian dialects, this event is widely known as the Night of Miraj. It was on this journey that the Prophet (PBUH) was gifted the five prescribed daily prayers and met other Prophets in prayer. The extraordinary sights he witnessed tested the faith of his followers, offering a test and an opportunity to shine for the true believers.

The journey occurred during a historical period of hardship, grief, and rejection. The Prophet had lost some of his dearest family and supporters and was rejected by the people of Ta’if. It is believed to have taken place one year before the Hijrah to Madinah, marking a transformational moment for Islam and its growth.

History of the night of Al Isra wal Miraj (27th Rajab)

The night of Al Isra wal Mi’raj carries deep spiritual significance for Muslims, making it an important event in their daily lives. It was the night that the Prophet (PBUH) was commanded to establish Salah (prayer), a fundamental part of Islamic practice. This miracle reflects the power and glory of Allah, revealing what lies beyond the unseen eye, and showing the dearness of the Prophet (PBUH) to his Creator.

On this night, Muslims often engage in nafl prayers, give Sadaqah, and increase their worship to gain nearness to Allah. It is a moment to reflect, draw lessons, and appreciate the blessed journey. The event reminds believers of the spiritual heavenly world that exists beyond human perception, a world that awaits the righteous and sincere believers. It is a night that continues to exist in the hearts and practices of Muslims around the globe.

First part of journey

Lailat-al-Miraj is one of the most profound miracles in Islamic history, where the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) experienced both a spiritual and physical journey. This event holds immense greatness and importance in the eyes of Allah (SWT) and is recognized as a shining moment in the Prophet’s life. The journey, beginning on the 27th Rajab, is known as Isra, meaning the night journey from Masjid-al-Haram in Mecca to Masjid-al-Aqsa in Jerusalem. It was a night of miracle, during which Angel Jibrael came to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), placing him on buraq, the steed of the prophets.

The Quran testifies to this event, noting that signs were shown to His devotee in a blessed journey. Allah is described as the Hearer and the Observer. Known as Isra and Miraj, the first part focuses on the Prophet (PBUH) walking in the night, guided by divine will. This miraculous event is commemorated across Islamic communities and marks a pivotal moment in the Prophet’s mission. It was also a time of deep hardship, grief, and rejection after the deaths of his dearest family and supporters, especially following the rejection in Ta’if, prior to the Hijrah to Madinah.

Second part of journey

The Miraj refers to the ladder-like ascension from Jerusalem to the Heavens. This part of the journey involved the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) being lifted towards Paradise, riding the Buraq, and ascending through the seven levels of Heaven. During this ascension, he met several Prophets such as Adam, Musa, Ibrahim, Isa, Yusuf, and Yahya (peace be upon them all). At Sidra-tul-Muntaha, the seventh heaven, near the Lotte Tree, symbolizing the end of the celestial world, Jibrael paused and the Prophet continued alone to the abode of the Almighty.

At this sacred point, the Prophet (PBUH) received the divine command for fifty daily prayers, which he later requested to be reduced for the ease of the Muslims and his ummah. After several requests, it was decreased to five obligatory prayers. This event became a pillar of Islamic faith and daily practice. The Quran describes this highest point, noting the arms-lengths, the closeness between Allah and His servant, and how the heart of the Prophet (PBUH) did not doubt what he saw. The journey also included revelation, heavenly splendors, and the ultimate signs of Allah’s power.

The faith of the Prophet (PBUH) and the declaration of his position in Islam was elevated through this event. It occurred near the time of the Hijra and the rejection in Taif, around the 27th Rajab, though its date remains debated among researchers and lacks confirmation in Sahih hadith. Still, it remains a blessing for mankind, a moment of profound truth, and showcases the connection between the creation and its Creator. This sacred night is remembered for its purpose, significance, and the example it sets for all believers.