First day of Ramadan in United Arab Emirates

Meaning and start of the month

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Muslims regard it as the month in which the Quran was revealed. Capable Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, and the UAE government describes the month as a time for piety, charity and self-discipline.[2]

Because the Islamic calendar follows the moon, Ramadan begins with a crescent sighting and lasts 29 or 30 days. The UAE government says the country’s official announcement is made by the moon-sighting committee in coordination with national institutions and monitoring centres.[2]

The first evening and local observances

The UAE government describes a family gathering at the family home, often the grandfather’s, for the first iftar. Suhoor is eaten before dawn; iftar breaks the fast at sunset, often with dates and laban. Harees, threed and a date-and-cardamom sweet called alqurs are also mentioned among foods associated with Ramadan in the UAE.[2]

Ramadan cannons signal the time for iftar in many parts of the country. The government also describes taraweeh prayers after the evening prayer, Ramadan lectures at mosques, and charitable efforts that provide meals and food supplies. Iftar tents and meal distributions are among the community activities it identifies.[2]

Public holiday status and practical effects

Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024 lists official holidays for the public and private sectors, including Eid Al-Fitr, but does not name the first day of Ramadan as a separate holiday. The start of Ramadan does not itself create a listed nationwide day off; the resolution provides a holiday for the 30th day of Ramadan only when the month lasts 30 days, as part of Eid Al-Fitr.[1][2]

Ramadan changes working hours and some daily schedules. UAE government guidance says working hours are reduced by two hours a day during Ramadan, for Muslim and non-Muslim employees, without reducing regular wages; MOHRE also describes the two-hour reduction in normal private-sector working time.[2][3] The government says grocery shops and supermarkets remain open as usual, malls stay open late, and tourist attractions remain open during the day, although some restaurants may adjust their hours. Paid parking schedules can change, and it may be harder to find a taxi around iftar, so check local service information and book rides ahead where practical.[2]

Guidance for visitors

Non-Muslims are not required to fast. The UAE government says restaurants and food courts in malls may provide designated dining areas during the day, while some restaurants may change their hours or close until iftar. Visitors can be considerate of people who are fasting and check opening times for individual venues and services.[2]