Cannon firing has been an age old tradition in the UAE that first started in the 1960s. This was done to inform people to break their fast when Maghrib time has entered before the Islamic prayer was called out.
The police force operate the special cannons with blank cartridges at the city's popular tourist spots as curious visitors gather to witness the spectacle. According to historians, this tradition dates back to 10th century Egypt, whereas in Dubai this tradition has been followed since 1960 (after the formation of the union) as there were no speakers in the mosques back then.
Dubai Police has launched 11 roaming cannons around the Emirates, these cannons seem like they are everywhere as they are relocated every three to four days throughout the month.
A few spots you could have spotted the roaming cannons would be Nad Al Sheba near Nad Al Sheba Park, Al Barsha near Al-Buhaira Park, Al Qouz near Al Anbiya’a Mosque, Al Khawaneej near Ahmed Al Habbai Mosque, and Muhaisnah near Abdul Rahim Mohammed Kti Mosque.
And 6 main cannons that can be found on site until the end of Ramadan. They are located in: Madinat Jumeirah Fort Island, Atlantis -the Palm, Burj Khalifa, Al Seef, Al Waheda at Century Mall Dubai, and Hatta in front of Emirates Cooperative Society and Hatta Hill Park.
