Islamic Holiday of Isra and Mi’raj – The Prophet’s Ascension

Isra and Mi’raj commemorate the Prophet Muhammad’s expedition from Mecca to Jerusalem and eventual ascent to heaven in 621. Also known as the ‘Night Journey’, this holiday is observed on the 27th day of the seventh month (Rajab) in the Islamic calendar. Isra signifies the part of the journey in Jerusalem where he met and prayed with other prophets such as Jesus, Moses and Abraham. According to Islamic beliefs, he was then taken to heaven by the angel Gabriel on a winged horse. The second part of the journey (Mi’raj) is when he went back to God (several times) to reduce the number of daily prayers from 50 to 5 at the urging of Moses.

During this period, restaurants may be closed and diners are advised to call in advance. Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort, a popular Oman resort, and other similar hotels feature restaurants that entertain guests.