Ramadan is the holy month of fasting for Muslims, and in the UAE it is felt especially strongly. Many tourists wonder whether it is worth going to Dubai at this time and whether the fast will spoil the holiday. The short answer is that you can go, and there is an atmosphere all of its own to it — you just need to know the rules. Let us work out how a tourist should behave during Ramadan. This is part of our rules of conduct in Dubai.
When Ramadan Begins
Ramadan is tied to the lunar calendar, so each year it shifts about 11 days earlier. The exact dates are announced after the sighting of the moon, so deviations of a day or two are possible:
| Year | Approximate dates |
|---|---|
| 2026 | ~18 February – 19 March |
| 2027 | ~8 February – 9 March |
| 2028 | ~28 January – 26 February |
The month ends with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which brings a public holiday.
What Changes in the City
During Ramadan the rhythm of Dubai shifts to the evening and night. During the day everything is quieter and calmer, and after sunset the city comes alive: families gather for iftar (the evening breaking of the fast), night markets operate, and shopping malls are crowded until late at night.
- The working day is shortened — government offices and many companies have shorter hours.
- Attractions operate, but the hours may shift; check in advance.
- Shopping malls often work longer than usual.
- The atmosphere becomes especially welcoming and family-oriented.
Do Restaurants Work
Yes. In the past almost all cafes were closed during the day, but now the rules have softened: many restaurants are open during the day too, sometimes screening off their dining rooms with curtains. In hotels, cafes for tourists are open all day. After sunset the main event begins — iftar, when tables are laid everywhere and the atmosphere becomes festive. Closer to dawn, suhur is served — the last meal before the fast.
How a Tourist Should Behave
The main rule is respect. Even if you are not fasting, during the day in public places it is customary to refrain from eating, drinking and smoking:
- Do not eat, drink or smoke on the street, on transport and in public places during daylight hours.
- Chewing gum in front of people during the day is also not the done thing.
- You can eat and drink in the hotel, in your room, in specially opened cafes and designated zones.
- Dress more modestly than usual — see the guide to the Dubai dress code.
- Avoid loud music, dancing in public and displays of affection.
- With alcohol the rules are stricter in this month — it is usually served only in the evening and in limited places.
These restrictions are not difficult, and locals greatly appreciate it when tourists observe them.
Pros and Cons of Visiting During Ramadan
Pros: fewer tourists, lower hotel prices, a special atmosphere, the chance to try iftar and see the city from a cultural side.
Cons: daytime life is quieter, some venues operate on a shortened schedule, you cannot snack on the go during the day, and beach holidays need to be combined with respect for the fast.
If you are travelling for the first time and want the most active holiday, it may be worth choosing another time — more on this in the guide to when it is best to go to Dubai. But if you are interested in culture and calm, Ramadan will give you special impressions.
Ramadan does not close Dubai to tourists — the city keeps working, and the evenings become even more vibrant than usual. Little is asked of you: do not eat or drink openly during the day, dress more modestly and respect the traditions. In return you will see the emirate from its most heartfelt side and get to try a real iftar. The other rules of conduct are in the guide to Dubai’s laws.
