One of the best things about living in the UAE, is undoubtably the pleasure of being surrounded by so many different cultures and we’re very lucky to be able to experience so many different celebrations and traditions throughout the year. Whether it’s celebrating Eid, Christmas, Diwali, or other festivals, our community is a beautiful reflection of the diversity that the UAE offers. It’s a reminder of how we can learn from one another, embrace our differences, and come together to celebrate life’s special moments.

As we embark on the holy month of Ramadan, we’ve put together this article for those who may have just arrived in the UAE and are unfamiliar with the customs and traditions that make this month so special. Ramadan is a time of deep spiritual significance for Muslims, and it’s important to understand and respect the practices that are observed during this period.

WHAT IS RAMADAN?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered the holiest month for Muslims around the world. It is a time for spiritual reflection, self-discipline, increased devotion, and deepening one’s faith. During this month, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from eatingand drinking. This practice is not only about abstaining from food but is also seen as a way to purify the soul, practice empathy for the less fortunate, and grow closer to Allah.

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which are the core beliefs and practices all Muslims follow. The fast is broken at sunset with a meal called Iftar, traditionally begun with dates and water, followed by a larger meal. Iftar means ‘break the fast’, and once evening prayers are done families and communities gather around and enjoy their evening meals collectively The pre-dawn meal is called Suhoor.

Ramadan is also a time for increased charity and acts of kindness, as giving to those in need holds great importance. At the end of the month, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr, a joyous festival marking the conclusion of the fast, where they gather with family and friends for prayers, feasts, and celebrations. For those in the UAE and around the world, Ramadan is a time to reflect, reconnect with community, and practice generosity and gratitude.

Families and communities spend a lot of quality time together during Ramadan and will spend more time at their mosques, especially here in Dubai. Mosques will provide additional late evening prayers called Taraweeh and prayers after midnight in the last 10 days called Qiyam-ul-Layl. A time for bonding, many friends, families, and neighbours all collectively meet during this time, particularly at their local mosques.

RAMADAN DATES FOR 2025

As of now, Ramadan is predicted to begin on the evening of Friday 28th February 2025. That means the first full day of fasting will be Saturday 1st March 2025. However, the exact starting date and full length of Ramadan will only be confirmed when religious authorities conduct the moon sighting.

WHAT IS ALLOWED DURING RAMADAN IF I’M NOT MUSLIM?

Being a non-Muslim in Dubai, it’s always best to be aware of what you can and can’t do during Ramadan. It is illegal to eat and drink in public places during Ramadan. There are private areas in malls that are where you should go to eat and drink whilst out and about. Although officially it’s not allowed, in the UAE many will turn a blind eye to young children eating and drinking in public – especially water on those hot days. You also shouldn’t smoke in public either throughout fasting times, again if out you should find a private area to smoke. If you’re breastfeeding, this is absolutely fine to continue doing in public during Ramadan as long as you’re respectful.

Restaurants, cafes, and anywhere with a license in Dubai will still be able to provide food and drink during this time for tourists and non-fasting residents. Officially you are allowed to eat or drink in your car and we always have water just in case of any delays, but again, it’s about being respectful.

Dress respectfully during Ramadan when you’re out and about. Whilst this should be practice year-round, it’s imperative to dress modestly during the holy month of Ramadan, showing your respect for local culture and traditions.

Music, either loud or live music must not be heard during Ramadan so you may find places are a little quieter than normal too. Some Muslims prefer not to listen to music at all during this time, which is why there is a limit on sound. So again, if you’re listening to music in your own car, please make sure it’s not too loud.

ARE THERE ANY EXEMPTIONS FOR FASTING?

If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or even menstruating you are exempt from fasting. Children, the elderly, and those physically and mentally not capable of fasting are exempt too. This means if you are exempt, you are able to drink or eat in public however it is best to be respectful when you are doing so!

HOW CAN I SHOW SUPPORT TO MUSLIM FRIENDS DURING RAMADAN?

First of all, it’s best to educate yourself on Ramadan (like you’re doing now!) so when your Muslim friends, neighbours, co-workers explain their routine, you have a better appreciation of the practice.

Greeting Muslims with “Ramadan Mubarak” and/or “Ramadan Kareem” is a great way to show support, as this translates to wishing someone a blessed or generous Ramadan.

You may get invited to an Iftar and if you wish to take a gift, a dish of some sort, Arabic sweets, desserts, or dates are always very well received!

Buying presents for the Eid celebration is always a great idea to show your support to your Muslim friends! But what do you buy? Homeware such as blankets, throws, candles, or home fragrances are a popular choice, as well as food items such as baklava, dates, dried fruit, and chocolate, flavoured teas or coffee.

Overall, it is a time to be respectful, especially for non-Muslims living in a Muslim country. A time of reflection, Ramadan is a great opportunity for us all to appreciate what we have and give to those who are less fortunate than us, to be respectful, kind and considerate of others. During the Holy Month, there are plenty of opportunities to donate food items, care bundles, and other items to those in need.

Read more:

THREE WORKOUT TIPS FROM FITNESS FIRST TO BOOST YOUR STAMINA DURING RAMADAN

A BRITISH MUMS GUIDE TO RAMADAN – BY UM FARIS

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