⚠️2024 Dubai Ramadan Survival Guide
Ramadan, is of great significance to Muslims. Ramadan in 2024 has begun on March 11th for a period of one month, and will be ushered in around April 8th for Eid al-Fitr.
Do I have to fast in Ramadan?
The requirement to 'fast' during Ramadan is often misunderstood by many non-Muslims in Dubai and causes tension. While devout Muslims do not eat or drink anything before Ramadan, there is no fasting requirement for non-Muslims in the month of Ramadan, and it is simply a matter of respect to refrain from eating and drinking in public, especially in front of Muslims. 2021 saw the introduction of more relaxed Ramadan rules in Dubai, which allowed restaurants to serve food openly as usual during the holy month of Ramadan without the need for boards and barriers. Non-Muslims have been able to eat more liberally in Ramadan.
The month of Ramadan
As Ramadan emphasizes the cultivation of the body and mind, many entertainment venues will be suspended, and non-Muslims will spend the month of Ramadan together in relative abstinence. Some entertainment venues, such as bars, may be closed during Ramadan, and many hotels will suspend or offer limited alcoholic beverages. However, in order to take care of tourists, the basic tourist programs will continue as usual during Ramadan, and the malls will all be open as normal (or even open for longer hours), only that some programs and attractions will be adjusted in terms of their opening hours and processes. You can go to the official platform in advance to pay attention to these changes.
Other changes
✅ For most people in Dubai, Ramadan means "getting off work early". As per the law, working hours in Ramadan will be mandatorily reduced by at least 2 hours.
✅ Shopping malls and public places are busier than usual after Ramadan, and people in Dubai come out in full force after working fewer hours, making every day feel like a holiday.
✅ During the month of Ramadan, government matters tend to be handled less efficiently, so it is important to keep an eye on the government's Ramadan working hours to avoid getting shut down.
✅ Be safe when driving during Ramadan, hungry Muslim drivers who are fasting may suffer from hypoglycemia or loss of concentration, thus traffic accidents skyrocket in Ramadan every year.