Ramadan (withal known as Ramadhan or Ramzan) is bascially the ninth month in the Islamic calendar. It is a time when Muslims around the world focus on prayer, fasting, giving charity and other religious devotions. The last third of Ramadan is a particularly holy period, as it commemorates when the Koran’s (Quran) first verses were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. It is symbolized by the dawn to dusk fast. Dubai takes a distinctly different persona at this time, as business adjust their timings to accommodate those fasting. However daylight hours move to a slower pace, the city comes alive after the sunset, with the breaking of the fast after Iftar. Experience the etiquette of Ramadan 2021 in Dubai.

With cultural offerings in abundance, this is the perfect time to experience another side of the emirate with a spirit of togetherness and charity that defines the season. Experience authentic Emirati hospitality for yourself at signature Iftars and Suhoors and discover the many ways you can join in the wholesome festivities.

Ramadan 2021

This year Ramadan is expected to begin on April 13, 2021 and end on May 12, 2021. However the dates are dependent on the sightseeing of the crescent moon and may vary by a day or so.

Fasting during Ramadan is said to be one of the five Pillars of Islam; basic acts consider it mandatory for Muslims. The others are declaration of faith (shahada), prayer (salat), charity (zakat) and pilgrimage to Mecca (hajj).

Muslim children, pregnant women, nursing mothers, the sick and certain categories of people are exempt from fasting.

Many Muslims gather to break their fast with others. Huge Iftar tents, offering extensive buffets, are erected at major hotels.

Dubai is noticeably quieter throughout Ramadan and the pace of life is much slower. Muslims will commonly greet each other with phrases such as ‘Ramadan Kareem’ and ‘Ramadan Mubarak’.

Greetings

The traditional greeting in Ramadan is “Ramadan Kareem” or “Ramadan Mubarak” and this can often be heard during the holy month. If you wish to get involved and participate in local tradition, spread this greeting.

Food and drinks

One of the main cultural considerations during Ramadan is eating, drinking, smoking and chewing gum in public. All the aforementioned practices are prohibited and can even be punishable of up to a month in jail or a fine of up to Dhs 2,000 (USD$545), according to Article 313 of the UAE Penal Code. Irrespective of faith, this applies to everyone.

If we talk about restaurants, many are closed until sunset. However, in recent years, Dubai has become increasingly lenient, allowing several places to continue serving food during the day to non-faster. Also these restaurants will have dark sheets covering their windows and will only permit you to dine inside.

Other than this there are many cinemas, theme parks and other entertainment facilities have some designated areas where food is served to non-faster.

Operative and working hours

In general, working and school days are shorter, beginning in the later in the morning and finishing mid-afternoon. According to UAE labor law, normal working hours should be reduced by two hours long. While this does not specify only Muslim fasting employees, the Employment law of Dubai International Financial center clearly specifically refers to Muslims, stating that they don’t have to work longer than six hours of the shift.

Discounts and Sales

Forth with comparably empty malls and attractions, you can enjoy exclusive Ramadan offers. Motion-gate and Dubai resorts and parks for example are offering slashed ticket prices or vouchers during Ramadan. Most shops offer discounts on clothes, toys, accessories, etc. particularly towards the end of the month in the lead up to Eid-ul-Fitr, and various eateries have exclusive Ramadan and iftar deals.

Nightclubs and Alcohol

Many nightclubs close during Ramadan. Those that stay open will not have live music or dancing. In 2016, Dubai relaxed its alcohol laws, allowing hotel bars to serve alcohol during the daytime. Previously alcohol was sold in the evening time only.

Tourist Attractions

Popular tourist attractions like Ski Dubai, Wild Wadi, Aqua-venture etc. operate but are much quieter than at other times of the year. It’s a good time to avoid the crowds. Ticket prices are often cheaper too.

Transport

Operating times for the Dubai Metro, Dubai Tram etc. could possibly change. If so, such changes are announced in the media in the days leading up to Ramadan.

Iftar

Iftar is basically the evening meal, taken after the evening Maghrib prayer to mark the end of a day of fasting. Iftar is a joyous occasion as friends and family gather to enjoy a meal together – consisting of multiple courses and cuisine from across the globe, it is a veritable feast. Many restaurants host unique iftar get-together’s and, as mentioned previously, you can avail some unique iftar get-together and, as mentioned previously, you can avail some great offers. It is also common for locals to generously invite non-Muslims to witness the festivities. If you’re invited to an iftar party, it’s a wonderful opportunity to learn about Emirati culture and the traditions associated with the holy month.

Eid ul-Fitr

Eid ul-Fitr is a celebration that marks the end of Ramadan. A lavish affair, it is a national holiday and last for three days. For Muslims, Eid is an opportunity for families to dress in their finest clothes and visit friends, family and neighbors bearing gifts and food.

Malls, theme parks and other attractions remain open, and you can enjoy some great discounts during this period. However, as offices and schools are closed, these major attractions can get very busy with chaotic traffic as people who make the most of their days off.

Plan your trip to Dubai during this holy month of Ramadan 2021. It will be the best ever trip for you. Don’t forget to apply for a Dubai visa so that you live it up in Dubai this Ramadan.