Planning to visit Dubai during Ramadan? This special month brings a unique atmosphere, with cultural traditions, shorter opening hours and an emphasis on prayer and reflection.

Although some places have changed their schedules, there's still plenty to do in Dubai during Ramadan, from lively Ramadan night markets to unique Iftar experiences.

This guide presents everything you need to know about the best things to do and visit during Ramadan in Dubai .

Ramadan in Dubai - What's it like?

In Dubai, Ramadan is a time for reflection, prayer and community spirit.

Muslims fast from dawn to dusk, avoiding eating, drinking and smoking during the day.

The month focuses on charity (zakat) and ends with Eid Al Fitr, a joyous festival of celebrations, family reunions and gifts.

During the day, the city is quieter, especially in the afternoon. However, all Dubai's main attractions, shopping malls and restaurants remain open.

At sunset, cannon shots are fired throughout the city, particularly near Burj Khalifa and City Walk, to signal the end of the fast. This is when the city comes alive.

People gather for iftar and enjoy their meals in beautifully decorated tents and in Dubai's best restaurants. Afterwards, the streets, shopping malls and markets are bursting with energy, with shopping and social activities extending late into the night.

Things to do during Ramadan in Dubai

Here are a few things to do in Dubai during Ramadan, to discover the true spirit of this lively month.

Enjoy a traditional Iftar

At sunset, the town gathers to break the fast with iftar.

The meal begins with dates and water and continues with a variety of Arab and international dishes.

Many hotels and restaurants set up magnificent buffets and tents for iftar, offering everything from grilled meats to decadent desserts like kuna fa and qatayef.

From luxury hotel buffets to casual al fresco dining, there's no shortage of unique flavors this month.

The best places for iftars in Dubai include Atlantis The Palm, Al Hadheerah, Bab Al Shams and many more.

Don't give up on going out during Suhoor

One of the best things about Ramadan in Dubai is that the city never sleeps.

During suhoor, it's just as lively as iftar. You can opt for a light or hearty meal.

Among the best Suhoor venues in Dubai are the Majlis in Madinat Jumeirah and the Ramadan tent at the Ritz-Carlton, which offer a magnificent setting for a nighttime gathering.

Shop at Ramadan night markets

Dubai's shopping malls stay open late, creating a lively atmosphere after iftar.

Special Ramadan night markets are springing up all over the city.

For example:

• The Ramadan Souq at the Dubai World Trade Centre is a great place to buy traditional clothing, perfumes and decorations. (March 1 to April 1, 2025, 6:00 pm to 12:00 am)
• The Dubai Festival City Mall Night Market offers traditional dishes, handicrafts and live entertainment (March 9 to April 15, 2025).
• The Ramadan District at Dubai International Financial Centre DIFC offers a mix of high-end boutiques, food stalls and cultural events. (From March 8 to March 23, 2025)
• Al-Seef Night Market is a heritage-inspired market along Dubai Creek, offering local crafts, clothing, accessories and Middle Eastern delicacies. (From March 1 to April 1, 2025)
• City Walk Ramadan Market - An elegant outdoor shopping venue with vendors selling clothes, home decor, jewelry and gourmet street food (March 1 to April 1, 2025).

Discover the canons of Ramadan

A long-standing tradition in Dubai is to fire cannons to signal the end of the daily fast during Ramadan.

This ceremonial practice takes place at several locations in the city, including the following addresses:

• Burj Khalifa
• Expo City Dubai
• Damac Hills
• Vida Creek Harbour
• Mirdif Downtown
• Festival City
• Hatta Guest House

A mobile cannon will also be visiting various neighborhoods throughout Ramadan.

Decorate your home

Bring in the festive spirit by decorating your home during Ramadan in Dubai with warm lighting, traditional objects and elegant tables.

You can use lanterns to add a soft glow, and crescent moon and star motifs to create a special atmosphere.

Arabic calligraphy wall art, embroidered cushions and Ramadan-themed tableware can enhance the festive mood.

Many stores and souks, including Dragon Mart and Grand Souq Deira, offer beautiful Ramadan decorations in Dubai to make your home welcoming and memorable.

Plan an Iftar getaway

For a unique experience, book a desert safari in Dubai and enjoy iftar in traditional Emirati style.

You can dine under the stars while enjoying cultural performances such as Tanoura dance and fire shows.

Resorts such as Al Maha and Sonara Camp offer luxury desert dining with authentic Emirati dishes.

You can also escape to the Hatta mountains for a peaceful iftar by a lake.

Visit cultural and spiritual sites

Ramadan is a great time to explore Dubai's best mosques and heritage sites.

The Jumeirah Mosque offers guided tours that explain Islamic traditions, while the historic Al Fahidi district gives an insight into Dubai's cultural past.

Visitors can also attend Ramadan night prayers, the Taraweeh, in the city's mosques.

Attend special Ramadan cultural events

Dubai hosts a variety of cultural and religious events during Ramadan, providing an insight into Islamic traditions.

The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) in Al Fahidi organizes iftars and interactive events. You can learn about Ramadan customs while enjoying a meal with Emirati hosts.

Expo City Dubai and other art galleries in Dubai also organize special Ramadan exhibitions, poetry evenings and storytelling sessions. These events are an opportunity to discover the spiritual and cultural essence of the month in a welcoming environment.

Etiquette during Ramadan in Dubai

Dubai is a multicultural city, but during Ramadan it's important to respect the customs and traditions of the Muslim community.

Here are a few rules to follow:

• Respect fasting hours by avoiding eating, drinking or smoking in public during the day.
• Non-Muslims are not obliged to fast, but must be attentive to those who do.
• Restaurants remain open, and many are offering indoor meals for those who are not fasting. Children can eat and drink as usual.
• Adapt to shorter working hours, as many companies and offices work reduced hours. Check schedules before planning your visits.
• As a sign of respect for the culture, dress modestly, wearing loose-fitting clothes that cover shoulders and knees.
• Be aware of public behavior, keep noise to a minimum and avoid public displays of affection or inappropriate conversation.
• Join in the celebrations by attending iftar gatherings, exploring Ramadan night markets and discovering the city's lively atmosphere after sunset.
• Greet people by saying "Ramadan Mubarak", a polite and thoughtful way of acknowledging the holy month.
• Get involved in charitable activities by donating to government-approved organizations at supermarkets, restaurants and fundraising events.

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