Dubai Ramadan: 10 Tips for Tourists

By Agrima Chopra

Islam is the prominent religion in Arabia, is the official religion of the UAE, and is deeply integrated into the culture, laws, and political system of the country.
As Muslim countries like the UAE open up to the world, they have also come to embrace global diversity, resulting in a vibrant melting pot of cultures that makes it easy for anyone to feel at home.
The destination has successfully created a harmonious environment, where freedom of religion thrives along with the respect for each other’s way of life.
Exploring Great Arabia gives every traveler the chance to experience the Islamic culture in a profound and meaningful way. In taking on this adventure, everyone should take note of certain etiquettes, especially during religious holidays.

The Ramadan dates you need to know in 2023

As we approach 2023, it’s essential to keep track of the significant Islamic holidays, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. The month of Ramadan is scheduled to begin on March 22 and will last until April 21, during which Muslims fast from dawn until dusk and engage in extra prayers and charitable acts.

Observing the Ramadan traditions is crucial for Muslim communities worldwide, and visitors to Muslim-majority countries such as Dubai should respect these customs and try to experience the unique Ramadan activities.

The end of Ramadan is marked by the celebration of Eid Al Fitr on April 20-21, a joyous time for feasting and family gatherings. Other important Islamic holidays during 2023 include Arafat/Hajj days on June 27-28, the Day of Sacrifice from June 28 to July 01, the Islamic New Year on July 18-19, and Milad un Nabi on September 27, which commemorates the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad.

While visiting Dubai during Ramadan, tourists should follow these ten tips:

During the holy month of Ramadan, it is extremely important to dress respectfully whenever one goes to a mosque or any other place of worship. It is inappropriate for men to be seen wearing anything shorter than long trousers or slacks, and it is also inappropriate for women not to cover their shoulders and not to wear long skirts or pants.

When Muslims fast during the day, it is respectful to refrain from eating or drinking in public. Ramadan lasts for 30 days. Because so many establishments will be operating normally during the day, guests will still have a wide variety of hotel and food alternatives to choose from.

It is important to keep in mind that Muslims pray five times a day and that the times of these prayers may shift slightly over the month of Ramadan. Find out when prayer times are and do your best to stay away from the area during those times.

Understand that the holy month of Ramadan is a time for meditation and prayer, and treat with respect those individuals who are observing the fast by abstaining from food and drink. Do not be that person who ruins the tranquil atmosphere by playing music or doing something else that is loud.

When making preparations to visit a tourist attraction or restaurant during the holy month of Ramadan, you should first confirm the location’s opening hours by calling beforehand. It is recommended to make plans in advance and reserve tickets for activities such as trips to prevent being disappointed.

Be aware that public displays of affection are looked down upon in Dubai at any time, but especially during the month of Ramadan when the fasting period is in effect. Avoid at all costs the practice of public displays of affection such as holding hands or hugging in public.

Do not drink alcohol; during the holy month of Ramadan, it is prohibited to consume alcoholic beverages in public places such as restaurants and bars. Although alcoholic beverages will continue to be sold at a variety of locations throughout the month of Ramadan, it is strongly advised that they not be consumed in public.

You are not required to fast throughout the month of Ramadan because you are not a Muslim; but, you should still show respect for those who do fast. If you come across someone who is fasting, make an effort not to break their fast in front of them, and make an effort to be patient with them if they appear tired or irritable during the day.

It may take more time than usual to move around Dubai and get things done during the holy month of Ramadan, so we ask that you remain patient. If things aren’t going as smoothly as you’d like, make an effort not to get too worked up about it.

Ramadan is a time for celebration, and there will be many opportunities to do so during this holy month, despite the restrictions that are imposed. It is possible to take part in a variety of cultural events and activities, in addition to the nightly meal known as “iftar,” which is when the fast is broken. This meal is served at many hotels and restaurants. This presents a good opportunity to get out and about and educate oneself on the rich history and traditions of the city.

Dubai is one of the best places to go to learn about and participate in the customs that are observed throughout the month of Ramadan. The holy month of Ramadan is the perfect time to visit Dubai.

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Experience Unique Ramadan Activities in Dubai: Your Guide to the Holy Month’s Customs

Iftar and Suhoor are two different types of meals that Muslims consume to break their fast. Iftar is eaten after twilight, and Suhoor is eaten in the morning. During the month of Ramadan, numerous hotels and restaurants offer unique iftar and Suhoor meals. If you go to one of these establishments, you will have the opportunity to experience traditional Arabic hospitality as well as cuisine.

In Dubai, there are numerous stunning mosques, and during the holy month of Ramadan, many of them open their doors to visitors who do not practice Islam. This presents a wonderful opportunity to learn about Islamic art and culture.

During the holy month, there will be a large number of traditional markets, also known as “Ramadan tents”, that can be visited to stock up on food and other necessities. At these marketplaces, the jubilant energy of Ramadan is palpable and easy to experience.

Engage in charitable activities: Ramadan is a time for giving, and there are many worthy causes in Dubai that you might lend your support. Participate in these activities. Assistance is required, and you may provide it by working as a volunteer, making monetary contributions, or participating in fundraising activities.

Get a Taste of the Nightlife: The exciting nightlife in Dubai undergoes certain transitions throughout the holy month of Ramadan. Rather than staying open until the small hours of the morning, many restaurants that cater to nightlife patrons now close earlier in the evening and reopen after iftar. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience to be able to view the transformation that takes place in Dubai’s nightlife scene during the month of Ramadan.

During the holy month of Ramadan, Dubai hosts a plethora of cultural events, from readings of poetry to traditional music performances. Participation in these activities is an excellent opportunity to obtain an understanding of the traditions and principles that are upheld in the UAE.

On a tour that takes you to mosques, traditional marketplaces, and other cultural icons, you can experience the sights and sounds of the holy month of Ramadan. It serves as a wonderful introduction to the diverse culture that can be found in Dubai during the month of Ramadan.

Participate in the festivities: the holy month of Ramadan is an excellent opportunity to pay a visit to Dubai and gain an understanding of the city’s diverse cultural practices and customs. Take a stroll across the city to take in the festive decorations and the lively atmosphere during the Christmas season.

Dubai Ramadan Tips for Excursionists

• HAI Ramadan at Expo City Dubai

A mesmerizing journey through the Islamic world awaits visitors at Hai Ramadan, starting from traditional Emirati neighborhoods and crossing over to the Levant, North Africa, and South Asia, before ending at the contemporary Arabian Gulf. From local cuisine to international gastronomy and delicious street food, indulge in an array of food and beverages, reflecting the joy of breaking fast and sharing a meal with a loved one during the holy month.

• Iftar at Dubai Opera

During the holy month of Ramadan, the Dubai Opera, a world-class performing arts center in the heart of Downtown Dubai, is transformed into a sumptuous dining destination providing authentic Arabic fare. From March 23 to April 19, 2023, dine on an excellent Iftar buffet featuring a wide variety of traditional Middle Eastern delicacies while listening to live performances of classical and Arabic music. Elegant and refined, Dubai Opera offers breathtaking views of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain. The venue’s impressive design contributes to the high-end atmosphere of its meals.

• Ramadan Night Market at World Trade Centre

Held annually for ten days at the World Trade Centre in Dubai, is a glimpse into the rich culture and history of the United Arab Emirates. The market is open every day from 5:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. and contains multicultural merchants offering cuisine, a one-of-a-kind shopping experience, and a variety of entertainment options, including live music, games, and cultural performances.

• Ramadan Nights at Global Village

It’s amazing to see how quickly Global Village can be transformed into a cultural mecca. Savour a range of Arabic and international delicacies when breaking fast with loved ones at iftar (the evening meal) or eating dates and water for breakfast (the morning meal). You may find all sorts of Ramadan-related goods, such as apparel, accessories, and souvenirs, in the 26 stalls spread around Global Village. In addition, some cultural shows and performances pay homage to Islamic history and customs through art forms including music, dance, and storytelling.

• Experience Hag Al Lila

The beloved Emirati ritual of Hag Al Laila, from February 24 through March 5, Al Shindagha Museum will feature the tradition of “singing for sweets,” in which children visit nearby households and perform songs in exchange for gifts. The cultural center along the rill will promote community, compassion, and tolerance through its many genuine experiences. Learn about the history of the United Arab Emirates as a family through fun and educational courses and events.