Ramadan is a sacred month in the Islamic calendar, observed by millions worldwide, including the UAE. During this time, Dubai transforms; business hours change, the pace of life slows, and the city embraces a more reflective atmosphere. Understanding the customs and regulations during Ramadan is essential to ensure respect and compliance with local traditions.
Dubai is known for its cultural diversity, and while the city accommodates people of all backgrounds, certain rules and etiquette apply during this period. From dining restrictions to dress codes and working hour adjustments, being mindful of these changes can help you easily navigate daily life.
This guide covers everything you need to know about what you can and can’t do in Dubai during Ramadan 2025, ensuring that you respect local customs while making the most of this unique experience.
Understanding Ramadan in Dubai
Ramadan is the holiest month in Islam, a time of spiritual reflection, devotion, and self-discipline observed by millions of Muslims worldwide. It is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and its start is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon. In 2025, Ramadan in Dubai began on March 1st and lasts for approximately 29 or 30 days, concluding with Eid Al-Fitr in early April.
Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is observed from sunrise (Fajr) to sunset (Maghrib). During this time, Muslims refrain from eating, drinking (including water), smoking, and other indulgences as a way to cultivate patience, gratitude, and self-restraint. The fast is broken at sunset with Iftar, a meal traditionally begun with dates and water, followed by a full meal. Suhoor is the pre-dawn meal before fasting resumes for the next day.
Beyond fasting, Ramadan is a time of increased prayer, charity, and community gatherings. Many Muslims engage in Taraweeh prayers (special night prayers) at mosques, and Zakat (charity-giving) plays an essential role, emphasizing generosity and supporting those in need.
In Dubai, where people from diverse backgrounds live and work, the city adapts to ensure that both Muslims and non-Muslims can observe Ramadan respectfully. Businesses adjust their operating hours, restaurants modify their dining options, and a more subdued, reflective atmosphere takes over the city. While life continues as usual, understanding and respecting local customs during Ramadan is essential for everyone.
General Guidelines & Social Etiquette During Ramadan in Dubai
Dubai is known for being a multicultural city where people of all backgrounds coexist harmoniously. While Ramadan is primarily observed by Muslims, everyone in the UAE is expected to respect the customs and traditions associated with this holy month. Understanding what you can and cannot do will help ensure a smooth experience, whether you are a resident, tourist, or expat.
What You Can Do During Ramadan in Dubai
✔ Enjoy Iftar & Suhoor Experiences
One of the most exciting parts of Ramadan in Dubai is the iftar experience. Restaurants, hotels, and cultural venues across the city host lavish buffets and traditional meals, often in beautifully decorated Ramadan tents.
Non-Muslims are welcome to join these gatherings, offering a chance to experience Emirati and Middle Eastern hospitality. Similarly, suhoor (the pre-dawn meal) is served at many restaurants and majlis tents until the early hours of the morning.
✔ Explore Ramadan Night Markets & Events
During Ramadan, Dubai hosts night markets, charity bazaars, and cultural events that bring communities together. Ramadan tents, set up across the city, offer a mix of traditional and modern entertainment. Major destinations like Global Village, Expo City Dubai, and Al Seef become lively hubs for shopping, dining, and social gatherings.
✔ Work Out & Stay Active
Gyms and fitness centers remain open, with adjusted hours to accommodate those fasting. Many offer late-night workout sessions, and some fitness groups organize special Ramadan-friendly training programs. It's advisable to exercise after iftar rather than during fasting hours to stay hydrated and avoid exhaustion.
✔ Shop & Enjoy Extended Mall Hours
Dubai’s shopping malls adjust their timings during Ramadan, often staying open until midnight or even later to accommodate those fasting. Supermarkets and grocery stores also extend their hours, making it easier for residents to shop after breaking their fast.
✔ Dress Respectfully
While Dubai generally follows a relaxed dress code in public spaces, during Ramadan, it’s advisable to dress modestly out of respect for the local culture. This means wearing clothing that covers shoulders and knees, especially when visiting malls, offices, or cultural sites.
✔ Support Local Charities & Ramadan Initiatives
Ramadan is a time of giving and generosity, and many organizations across Dubai launch charitable initiatives. You can participate by donating food, clothes, or money to recognized charities. Some initiatives include Ramadan Fridges, where people stock community fridges with free food for those in need.
✔ Accept Invitations for Iftar
It’s common for workplaces, local families, and friends to invite non-Muslims to share an iftar meal. Accepting an invitation is seen as a sign of respect and appreciation for the culture. It’s also a great way to experience traditional Emirati hospitality.
✔ Use Ramadan Greetings
A simple way to show respect is by using traditional Ramadan greetings such as:
- "Ramadan Kareem" (Generous Ramadan)
- "Ramadan Mubarak" (Blessed Ramadan)
✔ Plan Travel & Public Transport Wisely
If you need to get around the city, plan your travel ahead of time, especially during iftar hours (just before sunset). Traffic congestion increases as people rush home or to restaurants to break their fast. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Careem and Uber can be in high demand at this time.
✔ Show Patience & Understanding
Fasting from dawn to dusk can be physically demanding, and some people might feel more tired, irritable, or less energetic than usual. Being mindful of this at work, in public spaces, and on the roads can help create a more positive atmosphere.
✔ Be Mindful in Workplaces & Public Gatherings
If you work in an office or attend business meetings, be considerate towards fasting colleagues. Avoid scheduling lunch meetings or eating at your desk in shared workspaces. Many offices provide separate dining areas for non-fasting employees.
What You Should Avoid During Ramadan in Dubai
✘ Eating, Drinking, or Smoking in Public During Fasting Hours
Between sunrise and sunset, it is illegal to eat, drink, or smoke in public in Dubai during Ramadan. This includes chewing gum, sipping water, or having snacks while walking outdoors or in shared spaces. Designated dining areas in malls, offices, and private spaces are available for those who are not fasting.
✘ Playing Loud Music in Public
Music is an integral part of Dubai’s social scene, but during Ramadan, loud music in public spaces, including cars, restaurants, and beaches, is discouraged. Most venues lower their volume levels in respect for the fasting community. Live entertainment, concerts, and major nightlife events are also paused or reduced during the month.
✘ Public Displays of Affection (PDA)
While PDA is generally discouraged in Dubai, during Ramadan, this rule is even more strictly observed. Avoid actions like holding hands, hugging, or kissing in public to show respect for the culture and religious customs.
✘ Overindulging or Wasting Food at Iftar Buffets
While iftar buffets offer an extensive spread of food, it’s important to take only what you can eat. Wasting food goes against the spirit of Ramadan, which encourages gratitude and moderation. Many restaurants have started anti-food waste campaigns, encouraging responsible dining.
✘ Being Loud or Disruptive
Ramadan is a time of reflection and spirituality, so maintaining a calm and respectful demeanor is expected. Avoid raising your voice in public, engaging in arguments, or using offensive language. It’s also advisable to be mindful of driving etiquette, as road rage incidents tend to increase just before Iftar when people rush to break their fast.
✘ Hosting Parties or Consuming Alcohol Publicly
While Dubai’s hospitality industry still serves alcohol in licensed venues during Ramadan, daytime drinking in public spaces is strictly prohibited. Many clubs and bars limit their operations, and loud parties are discouraged.
✘ Dressing Too Casually in Public Places
While Dubai maintains a relaxed dress code compared to other Gulf countries, dressing modestly during Ramadan is encouraged. It’s best to avoid revealing clothing in malls, public places, and offices.
✘ Taking Photos of People Praying or Breaking Their Fast
Respect the privacy of individuals practicing their faith. Avoid taking photos of people at mosques or capturing strangers breaking their fast in public spaces unless given permission.
Exceptions & Considerations for Non-Muslims
Dubai remains inclusive for all residents and visitors, and while respecting the customs of Ramadan is important, there are exceptions and considerations to help non-Muslims navigate daily life comfortably.
Restaurants & Cafés Now Open During the Day
Unlike in previous years, most restaurants, cafés, and food courts in malls now operate as usual during daylight hours. However, some dining spots may use partitions or covered seating areas for customers who are eating in public.
Hotels and Private Dining Continue as Usual
If you are staying at a hotel, room service, in-house restaurants, and poolside dining options remain available. Many hotels also cater to tourists by providing Ramadan-friendly experiences, such as Iftar buffets and cultural talks.
Designated Eating Areas Are Available for Non-Fasting Individuals
If you’re at work or in public places like shopping malls, specific dining areas are set up for non-fasting individuals to have their meals discreetly.
Entertainment & Leisure Activities Still Operate with Adjusted Timings
Many tourist attractions, beaches, and leisure spots continue to function but may have adjusted hours. It’s best to check with venues before planning visits.
Ramadan is a special time in the UAE, bringing a mix of spiritual significance, cultural traditions, and community togetherness. comfortably, striking a balance between cultural observance and modern convenience. By following these simple guidelines, you’ll enjoy the holy month while gaining a deeper appreciation for one of the most meaningful times of the year.
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