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Written by Dubai Weekly Editorial Team

The holiest month in Islam, observed by nearly two billion Muslims worldwide, is expected to begin in the UAE on February 18 or 19, 2026, depending on the sighting of the new crescent Moon.

During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset for 29 or 30 days, commemorating the month in which the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Mohammed. In the UAE, the spiritual rhythm of Ramadan is reflected not only in mosques and homes, but across daily life — from shortened work hours to illuminated streets and bustling supermarkets preparing for iftar.

For those new to the country or seeking clarity, here is a comprehensive guide to Ramadan in the UAE, including key dates, etiquette and practical considerations.

When Does Ramadan Begin?

Because the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, the exact start date of Ramadan is confirmed through Moon sighting. In the UAE, the official Moon-sighting committee is scheduled to meet on the evening of February 17.

The committee first uses telescopic observation and then seeks visual confirmation. If the crescent Moon is sighted, Ramadan will begin the following day. If not, the month will start one day later.

This process also determines the end of Ramadan and the start of Eid Al Fitr.

Who Is Required to Fast?

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, alongside prayer, charity (zakat), pilgrimage (Hajj), and the declaration of faith (Shahada).

All healthy adult Muslims are required to fast. Exemptions apply to children who have not reached puberty, as well as individuals who are ill, pregnant or breastfeeding, menstruating, or traveling long distances.

While some children may choose to fast for part of the day to participate, the obligation begins only after puberty and when health permits.

When Is the Fast Broken?

The daily fast ends at sunset with the call to Maghrib prayer. In the UAE, this is traditionally marked by the firing of the iftar cannon.

Muslims are encouraged to break their fast with dates and water, following the tradition of Prophet Mohammed, before performing prayer and then eating a full meal. Iftar typically includes soup, salads and a main dish, varying by culture but generally avoiding overly heavy or excessively salty foods.

Motorists are advised to exercise caution near sunset, as traffic tends to increase shortly before iftar.

How Ramadan Shapes Daily Life in the UAE

Ramadan significantly influences the country’s daily schedule and atmosphere. Streets are decorated with crescent motifs and lantern-style lighting, while hotels and restaurants set up tents and marquees for communal iftars and suhoor gatherings.

Working and school hours are reduced by two hours from Monday to Friday. This applies to all employees and students, regardless of whether they are fasting.

Employers often encourage flexible scheduling, particularly during the final 10 days of Ramadan, which are considered especially sacred. Schools and offices are also required to provide designated eating areas for non-fasting individuals.

Business hours may vary throughout the month, so checking in advance is recommended.

Dining, Restaurants and Public Etiquette

In recent years, regulations around dining during daylight hours have evolved. Restaurants, cafés and many entertainment venues remain open throughout Ramadan to accommodate residents and visitors who are not fasting.

However, eating, drinking or smoking in public spaces during fasting hours remains prohibited. Consuming food in designated areas is acceptable, but discretion is strongly advised. Chewing gum is also considered a form of eating.

Drinking water at gyms or private beaches is permitted, and individuals may eat or drink inside their vehicles if not visible to the public. Children, people with medical needs and those with special requirements are exempt.

Above all, the spirit of Ramadan emphasizes patience and mutual respect. If a misunderstanding occurs, a simple apology is usually sufficient.

Dress Code and Public Conduct

Modest dress is encouraged year-round in the UAE, and this expectation becomes more pronounced during Ramadan. Revealing or overly tight clothing should be avoided in public spaces.

Swimwear remains acceptable at hotel pools and public beaches. However, when attending iftar or suhoor gatherings, some residents opt for traditional attire such as abayas or jalabiyas to reflect the spirit of the month.

Public displays of affection should also be avoided, consistent with local customs.

The Significance of the Last 10 Nights

The final 10 days of Ramadan hold special importance, particularly Laylat Al Qadr, known as the Night of Power. It is believed to be the night when the first verses of the Quran were revealed.

This sacred night falls on one of the odd-numbered evenings during the last 10 days — potentially the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th or 29th night. It is described in Islamic scripture as “better than a thousand months,” prompting many Muslims to increase prayer and reflection during this period.

How to Participate and Show Support

Non-Muslims are welcome to attend iftar and suhoor events at hotels and restaurants across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. If invited to a private home, it is customary to arrive shortly before sunset and bring dates or sweets as a gesture of appreciation.

Ramadan is also a time of heightened charity and volunteerism. Donations, community initiatives and acts of kindness are central to the month’s values.

When Is Eid Al Fitr?

Ramadan lasts 29 or 30 days, depending on the Moon cycle. If the holy month begins on February 18, Eid Al Fitr is expected on March 19 or 20. If it begins on February 19, Eid may fall on March 20 or 21.

The UAE government typically grants a three-day public holiday to mark Eid Al Fitr, potentially creating a long weekend for residents.

As with the start of Ramadan, the official announcement will follow the Moon-sighting committee’s confirmation.

Ramadan in the UAE is both a spiritual observance and a shared cultural experience — one that reshapes daily life while emphasizing reflection, generosity and community.