A month of extraordinary atmosphere — nightly Iftar feasts, Ramadan tents, late-night Suhoor, and a spirit of community and generosity that transforms the entire city.
Non-Muslims should not eat, drink, or smoke in public areas during fasting hours (roughly sunrise to sunset). Hotel rooms and designated areas are fine. Fines can apply for public eating.
Government offices, banks, and many businesses operate reduced hours (typically 9am-2pm or 9am-3pm). Malls and restaurants stay open but may adjust. Check ahead for specific venues.
During Ramadan, it is particularly respectful to cover up more than usual in public. Shoulders and knees covered in streets and markets. Beaches and hotel pools remain relaxed.
All hotels and many restaurants host special Iftar (sunset feast) and Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) experiences. These are cultural highlights not to be missed — extraordinary food and atmosphere.
Some of Dubai's most beautiful dining experiences happen during Ramadan — the Iftar buffets at hotels are extraordinary spreads of traditional Arabic and international cuisine, typically starting at sunset (around 6:30pm in February).
| Experience | What It Is | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel Iftar Buffet | Sunset feast — extensive traditional Arabic spread | AED 60-250/person |
| Ramadan Tent (Majlis) | Traditional tent with entertainment, shisha, dates | AED 80-150/person |
| Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) | Late-night dining until 3-4am | AED 50-120/person |
| Mosque Iftars | Some mosques host community Iftars | Free (for all) |
Recommended Iftar: Jumeirah Al Qasr and Madinat Jumeirah host some of the most atmospheric Iftar tents — traditional decor, live oud music, and magnificent spreads. Book at least a week ahead as these fill up. AED 150-200/person including soft drinks.
Yes — tourists are welcome and the special atmosphere of Ramadan is actually a unique draw. Iftar buffets, Ramadan tents, and Suhoor dining are experiences unavailable at any other time of year. The evenings are particularly special with families out celebrating.
Non-Muslims should not eat, drink, or smoke in public spaces during daylight hours as a mark of respect to those fasting. Hotel rooms, car interiors, and designated areas are fine. Restaurants serve food behind screens or curtains during the day. Fines can apply for public eating in UAE law.
Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin approximately late February or early March 2026, lasting 30 days. The exact date depends on the moon sighting and will be officially announced 1-2 days before. In 2025, Ramadan started in early March — 2026 will be about 10 days earlier.
Iftar is the meal that breaks the daily fast at sunset during Ramadan. The fast breaks with dates and water (following the Prophet's tradition), followed by a feast. Hotel Iftar buffets across Dubai offer extraordinary spreads of traditional Arabic food including harira soup, samboosa, mezze, grilled meats, and Ramadan sweets.
Shorter daytime hours, no public eating, a quieter daytime atmosphere, special Iftar and Suhoor dining experiences, Ramadan tents with live music and entertainment, community generosity (sadaqa), nightly prayers including Tarawih, and a unique spiritual atmosphere unlike any other time of year.
Iftar reservations, Ramadan-friendly itineraries, and hotel recommendations — our UAE experts plan the perfect Ramadan experience.
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