Information About Ramadan in Dubai

 

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and during this month, people of the Muslim faith fast from dawn to dusk every day.

When does Ramadan begin?
At the start of the Islamic lunar months, depending on the sighting of the new moon. Thus it will begin on a different day each year. In 2012, Ramadan will start on the 20th of July until the 18th of August.

Are Non-Muslims required to follow Ramadan practices?
Islam is a tolerant religion which respects people of all cultures, races and religions. Non-Muslims do not have to follow the traditions during Ramadan. However, as a sign of respect to the host country, guests are asked to refrain from consuming food, drinks, chewing gum and smoking in public during fasting hours (dawn to dusk).

Can Non-Muslims experience Ramadan traditions?
Local residents and visitors of all religions and cultures are encouraged to learn more about their faith. For this reason, hotels in Dubai have special Iftar (break of fast) gatherings and dinners at various restaurants available for guests and the general public.

Food & Beverage Facilities
Most restaurants within international hotels are open during the day for non-Muslims. Restaurants will have separate sections or keep curtains closed as a sign of respect to Muslim passers by. Room service is available as normal during the day in most international hotels.
Catering facilities operate normally but do not serve alcohol before 7 pm.
It is normal for small children to eat/drink in public during daylight, as their needs must be met.

Leisure Facilities
Hotel guests can enjoy the beach and facilities of the hotel as they normally would. Water sports facilities, health and leisure centres have normal operating hours.

Alcoholic Drinks / Bars / Nightclubs
Alcohol can only be served, provided, in licensed outlets.

Venues vary in their opening and closing hours. In general, alcohol is available after breaking the fast (Iftar) at sundown until 1 am.
However, no loud music or live entertainment will be allowed during Ramadan, only background music is being played.

Dress Code
Conservative clothing, as a sign of respect.

Working - Business Hours
Companies usually do have reduced working hours for their staff over Ramadan, especially for those who are fasting, but it is business as usual and the normal business hours are covered in most cases with employees working different shifts in most organisations in the private sector.

Shopping & Public Places
Working hours do change during this month as opposed to other days of the year for offices and shops, but remain usually open for short hours in the morning, usually from 10am to 12 noon and they re-open after breaking fast until as late as midnight. Parks and other public places open after the breaking of fast and remain open until late at night.

Al Maha Desert Resort
Ramadan in Dubai
Holiday Extras