The holy month of Ramadan sees spirituality and a more relaxed pace of life prevail across the UAE. Here is everything you need to know about Ramadan in the UAE.
Work Timings
During Ramadan, both fasting and non-fasting employees enjoy reduced work hours. This allows them to engage in spiritual activities and cultural practices. The UAE government usually announces reduced working hours for both the public and private sectors.
School Schedule
Academic days are typically reduced to five hours daily during Ramadan. However, most schools will be closed during the first three weeks of the holy month this year. Institutions will be closed for either the spring or end-of-term break around this period.
Parking
Paid parking hours are modified during Ramadan and will be announced closer to the holy month.
Restaurants and Cafes
Most eateries in Dubai operate as usual during Ramadan. While non-Muslims are not required to avoid eating and drinking in public during the day, it is recommended to do so out of respect for those fasting.
Iftar Meals
Iftar holds great significance during Ramadan as it marks the meal that breaks the day’s fast after the Maghrib call for prayer. It is usually a time for family and friends to gather and enjoy a special meal. Many hotels and restaurants in Dubai offer feasts and special Iftar menus to cater to the occasion. Additionally, numerous restaurants provide enticing offers and discounts for Iftar meals.
Prayers and Taraweeh
Due to reduced and relaxed work hours, Muslims are able to offer most of their five daily prayers at mosques during Ramadan. Places of worship are usually full, especially during the special prayers called Taraweeh that are offered after Isha.
Ramadan in the UAE brings many changes to daily routines, including reduced working hours, school schedules, parking, and more. The UAE government announces reduced working hours for both the public and private sectors during Ramadan. Most schools will be closed during the first three weeks of the holy month this year. Paid parking hours are modified during Ramadan, and eateries operate as usual. Iftar meals hold great significance during Ramadan and are usually a time for family and friends to gather and enjoy a special meal. Muslims are able to offer most of their five daily prayers at mosques during Ramadan.
