The holy month of the year of the Muslims- Ramadan/ Ramzan begins in early April- kicking off the third Ramadan held amid the pandemic. It is believed to be the month the Quran was revealed to the last Prophet Mohammed (PBUH). Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset daily of the month- typically either 29 or 30 days. In the UAE, safety restrictions remain but outdoor mask mandates have been lifted. Along with this, businesses are almost back to full capacity permitting some Ramadan traditions to return.
Ramadan- the 9th month of the lunar calendar is very important for Muslims. In this month the revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is commemorated. Traditionally, it’s celebrated on the night of Laylat Al Qadr- one of the last 10 nights of Ramadan. As well as abstaining from food and drink, it’s also the time when Muslims strengthen their faith through the recitation of the Quran and regular prayer.
Ramadan is a truly special time in our region, in Dubai as well as the UAE. However, if you’re a newly landed ex-pat or a tourist, there may be some aspects of the holy month you’re unsure about. Keep in consideration, some things might be a little different due to the pandemic. The spirit of Ramadan means Muslims become more aware of their actions towards others. You’ll notice a beautiful feeling of wellbeing in the air. If it’s your first-time experience, it will likely leave a strong impression.
Related: UAE Sehar & Iftar Timings
Ramadan is expected to begin on 2nd April. However, the exact date will be confirmed by the UAE’s moon-sighting committee. The exact date will only be determined a night or two before the month begins as the Hijri calendar is based on moon cycles. Each Hijri month is either be 29 or 30 days long that will ultimately affect when Ramadan falls. Moreover, as per the Islamic calendar, Ramadan 2022 will be Ramadan 1443.
The moon-sighting committee and advisers from the country’s Islamic authority – convenes after maghrib, on the 29th day of Sha’ban, to look for the new crescent moon. If the moon is spotted, Ramadan begins the following day. Searching for the new crescent is difficult because it is usually faint as well as only seen for about 20 minutes. The committee relies on telescopes in order to find the crescent moon.
The meal before the beginning of the fast is called Suhoor, as well as the meal just after sunset is Iftar. At sunset, Muslims end their fast usually by eating dates- eating dates is Sunnah. Thereafter, they adjourn for Maghrib prayer, after which the major meal is served. Iftar is a large meal enjoyed with family and friends. In Dubai, a lot of restaurants also hosts buffets as well as traditional gatherings till the early morning.
Related: Today Dubai Iftar Time
The traditional greeting in Ramadan is Ramadan Mubarak,” “Ramadan Kareem”- often be heard during the holy month. If you want to get involved in local tradition, spread this greeting.
During the day till sunset when the fast is broken, it is strictly prohibited to eat, drink, or smoke in public places in Dubai. We’re talking about not even chewing gum as well as not even a sip of water in the city. The rules apply to all public spaces like the metro stations, buses, old Dubai, and one of the swanky new promenades.
You do have to be mindful, there are no exceptions- not even when it’s hot during summer. If you need a sip of water, drink it in a private, closed space or an operational food court in a shopping mall. However, it does not mean that as a tourist you will go hungry in Dubai. Keep in consideration, cinemas in Dubai have also started serving food to non-fasting cinema-goers. If you’re visiting a theme park, there will be restaurants serving food during the day.
Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam. It’s mandatory for all Muslims who are in good health. Those exempts include anyone who is sick, young children, travelers, as well as women who are pregnant, nursing, or menstruating.
During Ramadan, Muslims increase their charitable work. They spend more time with loved ones. Some may abstain from listening to music and quit bad habits such as drinking too much coffee and smoking. Some Muslims also perform Umrah – an optional pilgrimage to Makkah that can be done at any time of the year, unlike Hajj.
Saudi Arabia has lifted most Covid-19 precautions as well as welcome worshippers from around the world. Masks are not required outdoors but are mandatory inside the mosques as well as other indoor facilities.
The holy month of Ramadan is dedicated to prayer, and in the last 10 days of the month Muslims spend the whole day praying in mosques. The tradition of this month in Dubai, Abu Dhabi as well as the rest of the UAE begins in the middle of the month before it. Children put on their best traditional dress, visit neighbors’ homes, recite songs and poems in return of sweets.
On the first night of Ramadan, the families gather at the home of the head of the family for the first Iftar. According to the tradition, Iftar consists of dates and laban (buttermilk)- as most used in the UAE, dates and water.
In Dubai, the month of Ramadan is an extraordinary experience, teaches, self-awareness, and patience. In this period, non-Muslims discover the deepest and most authentic traditions of the people of the UAE, participating in the festivities that mark this important month. Travelers are warned, they may receive invitations from local families to attend the Iftar, In this way, you may have the best opportunity to live one of the authentic and unforgettable experiences of your trip to Dubai.
Haq Al Laila is a Ramadan tradition to Emirati heritage. As same as trick-or-treat, it involves children walking around their neighborhoods collecting sweets from their community. As with iftar, families often invite non-local children to join in. it’s the best way to spread joy and excitement of this timeless occasion.
The tradition of Iftar in Dubai is one that is worth experiencing. Around the city, traditional tents are set up with lavish buffet feasts for everyone, regardless of whether or not they are fasting Muslim. Fasting Muslims usually break their fast with a sip of water and dates.
After sunset, almost every restaurant, regardless of which cuisine it serves, has a great Iftar deal. Generally, Iftar is a buffet including appetizers, mains, sides, and dessert- all at a good, value-for-money.
In Dubai, it’s common to receive invitations for Iftar from colleagues, friends, relatives or neighbors or. Be polite and accept as it’s a great way to learn about an important tradition. If you attend an Iftar, make sure to dress modestly.
Tourists visiting Dubai during Ramadan, need to be aware of some simple rules to follow. However, the same goes for ex-pats as well as non-Muslim residents.
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There are numerous circumstances under which a Muslim is exempted from fasting as discussed above. However, the basic premise doesn’t participate if it’s detrimental to your overall health. For non-Muslim, they should avoid eating or drinking in public, likewise for children between six and 12 years, are allowed. Muslims will do this in a discreet as well as private way so as not to offend others. Furthermore, if you are traveling through one of the country’s international airports, you will see full food services operating as travelers are exempt from fasting.
Younger children- those under six years old are not expected to fast. Pre-pubescent children may start to observe fasting. However, on reaching puberty participation by all Muslims is essential.
Schools in Dubai start later and finish earlier during Ramadan. Opening hours are advised by individual schools- normally restricted to a maximum of 6-hour day. For younger children in schools, you see no change, but hours may be reduced. Along with this, you can freely be able to feed a toddler or young child dress them as appropriate for the weather.
Mosques are opened but masks are mandatory indoors and worshippers must maintain a physical distance. The National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority has approved the return of the time intervals. The first urges Muslims to come to the mosque, the iqaamah, the second, occurs before prayers summoning worshippers to line up.
Now, copies of the Quran are available at mosques. Previously, worshippers were needed to bring their own. Moreover, the conditions for taraweeh prayers are yet to be announced. Last year, they were conducted with mandatory mask-wearing as well as social distancing.
Communal acts of worship bring greater rewards to Muslims. However, over the past three years, restrictions were placed on group prayers at mosques in order to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
The pandemic affected several aspects of Ramadan practices. From limiting communal prayers to changing how charity meals are distributed and suspending suhoor tents. Previously, it was not allowed for food to be exchanged between households as well as social gatherings related to Ramadan were also banned. From the last three years, wealthy families in the UAE erected tents and set up outdoor areas for distributing free iftar meals. It is unclear if it will be allowed this year or not.
We all know, Covid-19 affected every part of our lives. The essence of Ramadan remains the same regardless of measures in place in order to protect people. Increased piety, focusing, and self-reflection on the things in life that matter remain major parts of this month that are unchanged by the effect of the pandemic.
Streets will still be decorated with festive and colorful lights. A culture of helping others will likely be further strengthened as people band together in the face of adversity felt globally.
Muslims can continue to fast, making sure their health is maintained. They can also keep praying, at home as well as in mosques. Quran recitation can also be carried out with online resources available for guide with pronunciation and explanations. Muslims can keep giving to charity in whatever way possible.
In general, working and school days are shorter, starting in the later in the morning as well as finishing mid-afternoon. According to UAE labor law, normal working hours are reduced by two hours during Ramadan, making the working day around six hours long. However, it does not specify only Muslim fasting employees. The Employment Law of Dubai International Finance Centre specifically refers to Muslims, stating- they don’t have to work more than six hours.
The shorter working hours may extend to smaller businesses too. Generally, malls and shops are not affected by this. They open at their usual times but are open for much longer than usual. However, you must double-check the opening times.
Many malls, landmarks, attractions, and theme parks are comparatively empty during the day. You can skip the busy crowds characterizing the vibrant city and making it one of the best times to visit Dubai. Ramadan is not traditionally the peak tourist season because of high temperatures. It may work in your favor as you can visit landmarks without the usual crowds. However, following sunset, Muslims go out to celebrate the end of their fast. The subsequent rush can be overwhelming. If you want to dine out, it would be best to reserve a table ahead of time because restaurants are packed as well as waiting times can be long. During Ramadan, you also have the benefit of watching Dubai change from a deserted to a vivacious hub of activity come sunset.
Ramadan is a sensitive time- all the efforts to be respectful should be made. One of the best ways in which you can prevent offending fasters is refraining from playing loud music. Whether in a car or strolling through the shopping malls, music is prohibited. However, using headphones is acceptable.
It is suggested to make more of an effort to dress conservatively. Dubai is lenient, it would be best to refrain from wearing revealing, tight and short clothes in order to prevent offending locals. Generally, covering yourself from shoulders to knees is advised for both men and women.
Public displays of affection are considered disrespectful in Dubai, especially between unmarried couples- it’s heightened during Ramadan can be very offensive. So, refrain from touching and in public spaces.
Another essential consideration in Dubai is traffic. Traffic can be difficult after sunset as people rush to iftar parties. However, a combination of side effects caused by hunger and heat makes the roads unsafe. As a result, road accidents can be on peak. Luckily, Road Safety UAE provides proper guidance on how best to navigate the roads safely during Ramadan.
Nightlife in Dubai during Ramadan
During Ramadan, the nightlife in Dubai is much quieter, you won’t find any parties, ladies’ nights, and nightclubs in action. However, it does not mean that Dubai goes to bed early. It is fascinating to know that the city takes on a celebratory mood after sunset, and you’ll find people at night markets around the city.
After iftar, Muslims and the other nationalities living in Dubai are found wandering the night markets, snacks, shopping, drinking tea, and more. It’s the best excuse to see a different kind of nightlife. Many shopping malls work for extended hours later into the night- a great opportunity to get some shopping done.
Dressing in Dubai during Ramadan
Ramadan is a time of prayer and humility. In Dubai, dressing respectfully and conservatively is appreciated as well as earning you respect. It’s suggested for both men and women to cover shoulders and knees in public spaces. If you’re wearing sleeveless clothing, wear a jacket or scarf on top. Maxi skirts and dresses are a better choice than knee-length and shorts.
Discounts and sales
Along with empty malls and attractions, enjoy exclusive Ramadan offers. During Ramadan, Dubai Resorts and Parks also offer slashed ticket prices or vouchers. Most of the shops offer discounts on clothes, toys, accessories and many more items, particularly towards the end of the month in the lead up to Eid-ul-Fitr. Various eateries also have exclusive Ramadan and iftar deals.
While several Dubai residents travel out of Dubai during Ramadan. One of the significant reasons is, it’s a quieter and easy way to get time off from work in order to escape the summer temperatures. Ramadan is a good time to visit Dubai if you want less crowds and discounted rates.
Ramadan is usually in the summer, as it isn’t exactly the best time to visit. However, it’s also low-tourist season meaning that you’ll find cheap flights as well as significantly discounted hotels. Moreover, tickets of water parks, theme parks and boat rental Dubai are also available at discounted rates. Savings can add up nicely.
Dubai is quite a calmer city in Ramadan if you want that sort of vibe. One of the significant advantages is, you’ll see lesser crowds at popular and crowded attractions like Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall. Who doesn’t like sightseeing and shopping peacefully? Plus, amazing sales and discounts are also up for grabs. If one of the significant things you’re looking to do in Dubai is, enjoy the nightlife.
Ramadan is the Islamic lunar month of fasting. It includes spiritual reflection, intense prayer as well as nightly feasts, and fun. It falls at a different time during which Muslims abstain from food, drink, tobacco, as well as any sex from sunrise to sundown and just focus on their worship. Nightfall sees lively meals shared with friends and family. Eid al Fitr- marks the end of Ramadan.
Non-Muslims aren’t expected to fast, drinking, eating, or smoking are prohibited in public during daylight. Refrain from swearing and playing loud music in public. Be aware- everyone is expected to dress modestly. Along with this, women should cover their shoulders with a shawl, and all visitors should cover their legs. Swimwear is acceptable in pool areas.
With shorter work hours daytime food options are limited. Last-minute dinner reservations seem impossible as Muslims meet to break their fast. You can map out shopping centers and international hotels catering to hungry visitors and offering daytime meals. It would be best to carry water bottle.
Dubai’s top attractions offer smaller crowds during the Holy Month of Ramadan. You can book a guided city tour in order to see architectural masterpieces like Burj Khalifa and Burj al-Arab hotel. Moreover, learn about the holiday at souks, royal palaces, and mosques.
Don’t be shy and try fasting for a day on a desert safari. Breaking your fast in a traditional way as well as taking a guided walking tour through Old Dubai in order to learn about the Emirati culture. Dubai Museum is another ideal place to visit, never miss these places, especially during Ramadan.
If you’re visiting Dubai during the Holy Month and wondering, ‘What can you do in Dubai during this month?’ You’ll be glad to know that there is plenty to do. Ramadan is dedicated to spending time with your family and friends. Read on for amazing things to do in Dubai 2022 Ramadan!
Some of the Ramadan’s customs and events are affected by the pandemic, but several things remain the same. For instance, the shopping malls in Dubai stay open for longer than usual. Visitors can indulge in some late-night shopping at famed retail and entertainment destinations.
The shopping mall hours during Ramadan are typically until 01:00 am on weekdays as well as until 02:00 am on weekends. However, it would be best to call the malls and confirm or check their official websites. Enjoy plenty of special Ramadan sales in Dubai across supermarkets. Last year LuLu Group has launched their money-saving Ramadan kits worth AED 80 and AED 120. These Ramadan boxes include Ramadan essentials such as rice, sugar, and much more items.
There is a great need to know Dubai’s Global Village has also changed its opening timings for the Holy Month. The park will be open from 6 pm to 2 am. Here, you can easily explore the traditions of multiple countries with respect to Ramadan. Shop at the night market to enjoy scrumptious food. This year, the attraction is also offering traditional Iftar canons as well as fireworks on weekends.
Don’t miss the chance to visit Dubai’s best theme parks during Ramadan. You can visit Legoland to Laguna Waterpark – as many theme parks have Ramadan offers in Dubai 2022. The queues at these theme parks will be shorter during Ramadan. There is no need to worry regarding waiting time. You can check the official website to take a look at some of the deals for the city’s theme parks.
Many hotels and restaurants host amazing Iftar and Suhoor events in Dubai featuring lavish spreads and feasts with elaborate settings. You haven’t experienced Ramadan 2022 in Dubai unless you have tried some of the spectacular meals.
An Iftar in Dubai is more than a cultural tradition of feasting. It’s one of the best ways to learn about the customs of Ramadan and enjoy delicious local dishes. In cosmopolitan Dubai, an iftar is also a reflection of how multiple cultures flourish in a city like Dubai. It’s a spectacular thing to see Emiratis, Indians, Americans, Jordanians, Pakistanis, Germans, and Filipinos breaking bread together at an Iftar table. This tradition might not even be from their culture, but it fills my heart with pride.
In order to see a unique side of Dubai during Ramadan, you must take a guided Iftar walk in old Dubai. You’ll see a side of Dubai that is beyond your imagination. Get a chance to see what the oldest neighborhoods look like. Be part of a communal Iftar where Dubai residents gather to pray and break their fast under the open sky. You can also visit an Indian street stall, an Afghani bakery wandering in narrow backstreets.
Visiting the beautiful Jumeirah Mosque is one of two mosques in Dubai also open to non-Muslims during set times. You can take a guided tour of the Jumeirah Mosque in order to learn about the culture and Emirati traditions.
Above all, Ramadan is a time for introspection. One of the main activities Muslims engage in month of Ramadan is charity. Last year the charities in Dubai delivered meals at home rather than the Ramadan tents. Residents partake in the spirit of giving in Dubai during Ramadan by volunteering as well as making charitable donations. It’s amazing inspirational work.
During Ramadan, one of the unique things to do in Dubai is to watch the firing of the cannon at sunset. The firing of the Ramadan cannon is an old tradition. It signifies the time to break the fast. This age-old tradition is a spectacular sight that you shouldn’t miss.
Although the Ramadan cannons are not announced yet, but it is expected they will take place in several of Dubai’s hotspots like Burj Khalifa, Al Khawaneej, Atlantis The Palm, and the Eid Prayer ground in Al Mankhool.
If go-karting is your thing, watch out for the Dubai Kartdrome SWS Ramadan Challenge. It occurs in the Dubai Autodrome. It would be best to mark the Holy Month by selecting to race and win amazing prizes. All you need to do is, register on the official website for the desired SWC race. Helmet, racing suit, Sodi Kart, and gloves will be provided to the participants.
Moreover, you can also go for the Arrive and Drive Karting. Enjoy a race with a fleet of leisure karts at Dubai Kartdrome. During Ramadan, they have “Buy 1 Get 1 Free” offer. These races and sessions are some of the best things to do during Ramadan 2022 in Dubai.
Eid ul-Fitr is a celebration marking the end of Ramadan. It’s a lavish affair and there’s a national holiday and lasts for three days. For Muslims, Eid is the best opportunity for families to dress in their finest clothes as well as visit friends, a family bearing gifts and food. Malls, parks and other attractions remain open. You can enjoy some great discounts during this time. As offices and schools are closed, the major attractions can get busy with chaotic traffic as people make their days off. Enjoy some amazing sales, events as well as live entertainment during this public holiday. It’s both crowded and lively everywhere in Dubai.
When Ramadan breaks at night, this city comes to life. Malls stay open later and pre-dawn meals, keeping the people moving into the early hours.
What is the importance of Ramadan?
If someone is experiencing Ramadan in Dubai for the first time, it’s essential to know what Ramadan is all about. You must have to understand the cultural nuances linked with the Holy Month. Ramadan is the holiest month for Muslims. It is believed- Quran was revealed to last Prophet Mohammed during this month. Moreover, this month is the best time of tranquility, enabling the followers of Islam and enhancing the understanding of the people around them.
Can I eat in Dubai during Ramadan?
In Dubai, restaurants are allowed to serve food in public during fasting hours. Previously, it was prohibited in public during the daytime in Ramadan. However, this year the government has allowed serving food that means non-Muslims can eat in public during Ramadan.
Can a non-Muslim attend Iftar?
Yes, non-Muslims are welcome to attend an Iftar to enjoy the experience. You should dress respectfully for the occasion. Be mindful to let those been fasting all day go first.
What is the sighting of the moon for Ramadan?
The sighting of the moon is a vital aspect of breaking the fast. Each day the time for breaking fast is announced through public communication channels. The prayer is followed by a delicious meal with friends and family in Dubai, other expat communities too. However, the end of Ramadan is celebrated with a three-day holiday- Eid Al Fitr.
What are the Ramadan etiquettes for the tourist?
In Dubai, one of the rules of Ramadan is not play loud music as well as disturb the peace around. Even bars in Dubai also refrain from playing music, so it’s suggested to reduce the volume even in the privacy of your homes and cars
How long do Muslims fast during Ramadan?
During Ramadan, Muslims fast the day when the sun is up, abstaining from food, drink as well as other forms of pleasure. Two meals are allowed during the day- one before sunrise and after sunset.
What should I wear during Ramadan in Dubai?
You must dress conservatively and respect the cultural values you are in. it would be best to modest in public places as much as possible.
Is Dubai closed during Ramadan?
No, apart from a few places, numerous attractions in Dubai remain open throughout the Holy Month. You can visit theme parks, museums, Mosques and other tourist destinations in the city.
Can I smoke during Ramadan?
You’re not allowed to smoke in public, it’s a punishable offense with a fine amounting and sometimes even harsher punishments.
Are there any other great reasons to visit Dubai during Ramadan?
During Ramadan, you can find cheaper flights as well as accommodation packages rather than other times. Now Ramadan is in April, it’s peak tourism season- this is no longer the case. You can find better deals to come to Ramadan and Eid.
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