Introduction: The Spirit of the Holy Month
Ramadan is the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, a time for reflection, prayer, and community. In 2026, Ramadan is expected to begin on or around Thursday, February 19, and conclude with the Eid Al Fitr celebrations around March 20.
For visitors, this month offers a rare opportunity to witness Dubai’s cultural heart. While some rules apply, the city remains very much “open for business,” offering a mix of traditional hospitality and modern festive energy.
⚖️ Part 1: Essential Etiquette (The Do’s and Don’ts)
While Dubai is highly tolerant, respecting local customs during Ramadan is essential.
1. Public Behavior
- Eating and Drinking: While non-Muslims are not required to fast, eating, drinking, or chewing gum openly in public (on the street, in the Metro, or in parks) during daylight hours is considered disrespectful. Most residents and visitors eat in designated indoor dining areas or private spaces.
- Smoking: Smoking in public is strictly prohibited during fasting hours (dawn to sunset).
- Music and Noise: Keep music volumes low in your car and when using headphones. Loud public music and dancing are generally paused during the month.
2. Dress Code
During Ramadan, modesty is more important than ever. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered when in public places like malls, souks, and government buildings.
3. Public Displays of Affection (PDA)
Dubai always encourages modesty regarding PDA, but during Ramadan, it is particularly scrutinized. Keep physical contact to a minimum in public spaces.
🍽️ Part 2: Dining and Restaurant Hours
In recent years, Dubai has relaxed its regulations significantly to accommodate its diverse population.
- No Screens Required: Restaurants no longer need to install curtains or screens to hide diners from the public during the day. You can dine normally in most cafes and food courts.
- Daytime Dining: Most restaurants in malls and tourist hubs remain open for breakfast and lunch.
- Iftar (The Break-Fast): At sunset, the city comes alive for Iftar. This is the meal used to break the fast, usually starting with dates and water. Expect lavish buffets in hotels and special menus in almost every restaurant.
- Suhoor (The Pre-Dawn Meal): This meal is eaten before the sun rises. Many cafes and specialized tents remain open until 2:00 AM or 3:00 AM, offering a social, late-night atmosphere.
✨ Part 3: Things to Do & Seasonal Highlights
1. The Ramadan Cannons
A century-old tradition continues where cannons are fired at sunset to signal the end of the fast. Popular locations to watch this include Burj Park (near Burj Khalifa), Expo City Dubai, and Madinat Jumeirah.
2. Ramadan Night Markets
The city transforms after dark with vibrant pop-up markets.
- Ramadan Souq: Usually held in Old Dubai (Deira), offering traditional goods, clothing, and snacks.
- Expo City Dubai: Often hosts a “Hai Ramadan” festival with craft markets and cultural performances.
- Ramadan Night Walk: Look out for community events like the night walks in Dubai Silicon Oasis.
3. Nightly Fireworks
During Ramadan, you can often catch spectacular firework displays on weekend nights (usually Saturdays) at Al Seef, Bluewaters Island, and The Beach, JBR.
đź•’ Part 4: Practical Changes to Daily Life
- Reduced Work/School Hours: Most offices and schools reduce their daily hours by two hours. This means traffic patterns shift—expect heavy congestion around 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM and right before sunset (Iftar).
- Mall Hours: Malls extend their opening times significantly, often staying open until 1:00 AM or 2:00 AM.
- Public Transport: The Dubai Metro and buses usually extend their operating hours to accommodate the late-night social scene.
Relevant Hashtags
#RamadanDubai2026 #RamadanKareem #DubaiEtiquette #IftarDubai #SuhoorGuide #DubaiTourism #DubaiBuzz
Would you like a curated list of the top-rated Iftar and Suhoor tents for the upcoming season, including price ranges and booking links?
Planning a trip during Ramadan 2026? Learn about the expected dates (Feb 19 – Mar 20), updated restaurant rules (no screens required), essential public etiquette, and the best Ramadan night markets to visit in Dubai.