dubai: Can you eat and drink in public during Ramadan in Dubai? Discover the latest rules for 2026.
Learn about Iftar tents, restaurant openings, and the etiquette every tourist must know to respect the Holy Month.
🍽️ 1. Eating & Drinking During the Day
The biggest change in recent years is that most restaurants no longer require black curtains or screens to hide diners from the public.
- Restaurants & Malls: Almost all mall food courts and standalone restaurants remain open all day. You can eat and drink freely inside these establishments.
- Public Spaces: While you can eat inside a restaurant, you should still avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in open public spaces (like the street, parks, or Metro) out of respect for those fasting.
- Chewing Gum: This is often overlooked but is generally discouraged in public during daylight hours.
👗 2. Dress Code: Be Extra Mindful
During Ramadan, the city is in a more spiritual state. The “Respectful Dress Code” (shoulders and knees covered) is more strictly appreciated during this month.
- Recommendation: Avoid very tight or revealing clothing in public areas like malls and government buildings.
- Beaches: Swimwear is still perfectly acceptable at hotel pools and public beaches.
✨ 3. The “Iftar” and “Suhour” Experience
This is the highlight of visiting during Ramadan.
- Iftar: The meal to break the fast at sunset. Every major hotel in Dubai sets up spectacular Iftar Tents. You’ll find massive buffets featuring traditional Emirati dishes like Ouzi (roasted lamb) and Umm Ali (bread pudding).
- Suhour: The late-night meal eaten before sunrise. This is a more relaxed, social affair, often involving shisha and light snacks until 3:00 AM or 4:00 AM.
🚇 4. Business Hours & Transport
- Work Hours: Most government and private offices reduce their working hours by two hours.
- Public Transport: The Dubai Metro and Taxis operate normally, but be aware that sunset (Iftar time) is the “rush hour” of Ramadan. Taxis will be very hard to find between 6:00 PM and 7:30 PM as drivers break their fast.
- Malls: Malls actually stay open later during Ramadan, often until 1:00 AM or 2:00 AM, as the city “comes alive” after dark.
⚖️ 5. What is Forbidden?
- Live Music: You will notice that many bars and clubs are quieter. Live music and loud entertainment are usually prohibited during the day and restricted at night.
- Aggressive Behavior: Arguments or swearing in public are viewed even more seriously during this holy time.
📊 Summary: Ramadan Etiquette for 2026
| Activity | Day Time Rule | Night Time Rule |
| Drinking Water | Inside restaurants/hotels only | Anywhere |
| Dining Out | Most places open (no screens) | Festive, busy (Book ahead!) |
| Smoking | Strictly prohibited in public | Allowed in designated areas |
| Clothing | Modest (Shoulders/Knees) | Casual/Smart |
| Alcohol | Available in most hotels | Fully available in licensed spots |
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💡 2026 Insider Tip: The “Iftar Cannon”
If you want a truly local experience, head to the Burj Khalifa or Expo City at sunset. The Dubai Police fire a ceremonial cannon to signal the end of the fast. It is a powerful, traditional moment that tourists are welcome to witness.
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