Ramadan in Dubai: What Tourists Need to Know

Ramadan in Dubai is one of the most interesting times to visit — the city slows in the day and then comes spectacularly alive after dark. During the holy month, which shifts annually by about 11 days on the Gregorian calendar, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. Visitors are expected to observe certain behaviours in public: eating, drinking, and smoking outdoors during daylight hours is prohibited and carries fines. Restaurants either close during daylight hours or screen their entrances, and malls typically operate shortened daytime hours with extended evening hours. After sunset, the city transforms. Iftaar, the breaking of the fast, is a communal meal and every hotel and restaurant in the city runs elaborate iftaar spreads that non-Muslims are warmly invited to attend. These range from casual buffets to formal tented experiences with traditional Emirati hospitality. The atmosphere of sharing a meal after a long day of fasting has a warmth that is palpable even for visitors with no personal stake in the fast. The last ten nights of Ramadan, approaching Eid al-Fitr, see large night markets and extended celebrations. The Eid holiday itself is three days when the entire city celebrates — fireworks, gifts, gatherings, and an infectious sense of joy. It is an extraordinary thing to witness.