Ramadan in the UAE: What to Know, What to Do, and How to Experience It Right

Ramadan in the United Arab Emirates carries a rhythm unlike any other, inviting a more intentional way of living. From sunrise to sunset, those observing the fast refrain from eating and drinking, using the daylight hours for reflection, patience, generosity, and spiritual growth. It is a time marked by mindfulness in actions, words, and daily routines.

While days are defined by restraint, the wider culture of the country shifts alongside it. Working hours adjust, schedules soften, and cities adopt a gentler tempo under the sun. After dark, the transformation is unmistakable. Streets hum with activity, homes and restaurants fill with shared meals, mosques welcome worshippers, and evenings stretch into gatherings, prayers, and meaningful conversations that define the season.

For first-time visitors and residents alike, understanding the customs, etiquette, and daily activities makes all the difference. Knowing what to expect deepens appreciation for this significant time and helps navigate social norms respectfully.

Here is everything you should know and do to experience this special season in the UAE:

Mindfulness During Daytime Hours

If you are not fasting, you can still go about your day, but mindfulness is key. Eating and drinking in public during daylight hours is discouraged out of respect for those observing the fast. Some restaurants close during the day or operate discreetly.

At Naumi Hotel Dubai, Ostro Restaurant & Café remains open on the ground floor, thoughtfully tucked away from the city’s busier areas. Its calm, understated setting provides a comfortable space for guests who wish to dine during the day while remaining mindful of the season.

Dressing Appropriately

Modest dressing is encouraged throughout the month as a sign of respect for local customs and values. Clothing that covers the shoulders and knees is recommended for both men and women, especially when visiting mosques, traditional neighbourhoods, government buildings, or public offices.

For women, this may mean tops with sleeves and longer skirts or trousers, while men should avoid sleeveless shirts and very short shorts. In mosques, additional coverings such as abayas or scarves are often required and are usually provided on site. While hotels, beaches, and private venues tend to be more relaxed, making a small effort in public spaces demonstrates cultural awareness and respect for local traditions.

Iftar Gatherings

One of the most anticipated moments of Ramadan is iftar, the meal that breaks the fast at sunset. Families, friends, and communities come together to share food and conversation, often beginning with dates and water before a generous spread.

At Ostro Restaurant & Café, guests can enjoy a carefully curated Ramadan iftar buffet in Dubai, featuring traditional Middle Eastern flavours alongside international favourites. For just AED 109 per person, experience a welcoming setting designed for lingering conversations, shared plates, and unhurried evenings that reflect the true spirit of the season. To book a reservation, contact +971 4 567 2245 or email [email protected].

Even if you are not fasting, joining an iftar is one of the most authentic ways to experience Ramadan in the UAE. It provides insight into local traditions while allowing visitors to connect with the culture through food.

Suhoor: The Pre-Dawn Meal

Alongside iftar, suhoor, the pre-dawn meal, plays an important part of Ramadan. Usually enjoyed late at night or in the early hours before sunrise, suhoor is a reflective and intimate experience. It is a time to pause, nourish, and prepare for the day of fasting ahead.

Throughout the country, many cafés and restaurants remain open late, creating a relaxed environment for late-night dining. These extended hours give the city a unique nighttime energy, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy evenings at a different pace.

For hotel guests, this provides convenience and flexibility. At Naumi Hotel Dubai, 24-hour room service ensures suhoor can be enjoyed comfortably and privately at any time of the night, reflecting the thoughtful rhythm of the season.

Prayer and Reflection

Ramadan is a deeply spiritual time. Evening prayers, including Taraweeh, are held nightly at mosques across the country.

For guests at Naumi Hotel Dubai, a nearby mosque within walking distance allows Muslim visitors to attend prayers easily, while dedicated prayer rooms on-site provide a quiet space for reflection throughout the day. 

For non-Muslim visitors, hearing the call to prayer at sunset offers a peaceful and moving insight into the spiritual heartbeat that shapes daily life during the holy month.

Exploring the City After Sunset

During Ramadan, the UAE comes alive at night. Shopping malls extend their hours, cafés remain lively, and streets feel vibrant and communal. Evenings are ideal for strolls, sampling desserts, or relaxing on a terrace while enjoying the atmosphere.

Shopping during this period is uniquely enjoyable. Malls feature Ramadan-themed décor, pop-ups, and special promotions. Entertainment venues also adjust, offering cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, and live performances later in the evening. While daytime events and loud music are limited, nights remain full of life in a thoughtful and engaging way.

For visitors, this shift offers a fresh perspective of the country. Evening walks along the waterfront, rooftop views, and illuminated streets provide opportunities to connect with the UAE’s culture and festive energy. Naumi Hotel Dubai is just a two-minute walk from Dubai Internet City Metro Station, making it easy to bypass traffic and explore various neighbourhoods, catch sunset views, or enjoy evening activities around the city without a car. This central location allows visitors to experience the city’s evening vibrancy in a simple, accessible, and stress-free way.

Work Hours and Planning Ahead

During Ramadan, working hours in the UAE are adjusted. Government offices and many businesses close earlier, while some restaurants, malls, and leisure venues operate later into the night.

To plan your days effectively:

• Run errands earlier in the day
• Make dining reservations in advance, especially for iftar
• Allow extra time for travel just before sunset, when roads may be busier

A little planning goes a long way in ensuring a smooth experience during Ramadan in the UAE.

Giving Back During Ramadan

Charity and generosity lie at the heart of Ramadan. Across the UAE, communities organize donation drives, food distribution programs, and various initiatives to support those in need. From large campaigns in mosques to smaller, community-led efforts, the focus is on giving, sharing, and uplifting others.

Visitors are welcome to participate by contributing to approved charities, joining community iftars, or supporting local initiatives. Engaging in these activities offers a deeper understanding of the values that underpin the holy month and allows you to experience Ramadan beyond its rituals. It is an opportunity to witness the generosity, compassion, and sense of community that make this season so meaningful.

Is Ramadan a Good Time to Explore the UAE?

For travellers wondering whether to visit the UAE during Ramadan, the answer is a resounding yes, especially if you are open to experiencing the city at a different pace. The city adopts a gentler rhythm, offering a unique and culturally immersive perspective.

Visiting during Ramadan provides:

• Cooler evenings and less crowded days, making sightseeing, shopping, and exploring more relaxed while nights are lively and engaging
• Deeper cultural experiences, from community iftars to local traditions and charitable initiatives
• A strong sense of community and hospitality, with generosity and connection extending to visitors in subtle but memorable ways
• Unique dining moments, as iftar and suhoor offer opportunities to enjoy traditional meals, seasonal treats, and shared experiences

Staying in a place that understands the rhythms and customs of Ramadan makes your visit seamless and enjoyable. At Naumi Hotel Dubai, the staff are always on hand to answer questions, offer guidance, and help you navigate the city, from where to go and what to see to how to experience the season respectfully. With this support, your stay is comfortable, enriching, and memorable. From the moment you arrive to the memories you make, expect that you’ll like it here.