Guide to Ramadan 2025 in Dubai

What is the Holy Month of Ramadan?

The Islamic calendar’s most important month, Ramadan, is a time of reflection and piety, marking the lunar period in which the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) received his first revelations. Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam, the other four are faith (shahadah), prayer (salah), charitable giving (zakat) and the pilgrimage to Makkah (Hajj). For observers, this period is respected by increasing time spent in prayer and with loved ones.

When is Ramadan 2025 in Dubai?

As it is based on the Islamic lunar calendar, the dates of Ramadan vary from year to year, but in 2025 it is estimated to fall around 1 March. The exact day it starts is officially announced when the crescent moon of the ninth month (of the traditional Islamic calendar) rises. Ramadan lasts for approximately 30 days, until the next new crescent moon has been sighted – before closing with Eid Al Fitr to break the fast in festive style.

Ramadan 2025 in Dubai: What to expect

Dubai is always a wonderful place to spend the Holy Month, and this year is no different. There’s so much happening across the city, with options to delight every member of the family. See our guide to Dubai's best Ramadan tents, which offer amazing food and authentic Emirati hospitality, and for more culinary inspiration check out the city's best iftars for 2025.

Every year the city also comes alive with plenty of great entertainment options during the Holy Month – watch this space to know about the best pop-up markets, family-friendly experiences and more.

Make sure you visit the city's shopping malls this Ramadan too, where you'll find the best brands, unmissable deals and family-focused events. See our guide to Ramadan shopping for a comprehensive look at exclusive selections, great gift ideas and much more. A schedule of dazzling fireworks shows around the city will be announced soon too, so stay tuned.

Discover more about Ramadan 2025 in Dubai.

What does Ramadan mean?

Literally, Ramadan comes from the Arabic word ramida, and roughly translates as 'great heat'. If you'd like to learn some basic Arabic during the Holy Month, see our list of common words and phrases.

How do Muslims observe Ramadan?

The pace of the city slows down, and time is taken to reflect, refresh and grow. While different countries celebrate the Holy Month in different ways, fasting between sunrise and sunset, regular prayer, acts of charity and modesty are encouraged in an atmosphere of giving and empathising with those less fortunate during Ramadan.

What are the most common Ramadan greetings?

It's important to note that Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, so it's wise to avoid wishing 'Happy Holidays' or similar. The most commonly-accepted greetings during this season are Ramadan Kareem – translated as 'generous Ramadan' – and Ramadan Mubarak or 'blessed Ramadan'.

Do I need to fast? What are Ramadan rules in Dubai?

Regardless of your faith, Ramadan can be a special month in Dubai. Fasting is not required for non-Muslims. However, you are welcome to try fasting for a day and everyone is respectfully asked to be considerate of those who are practising. Non-fasters don’t have to go hungry – for restaurants and dining areas, it is business as usual.

What are iftar and suhoor?

Once the sun sets on a day of fasting, it’s time to eat and socialise. One of the best ways to celebrate the auspicious month is the opportunity to join in delicious iftar (after sunset) and suhoor (before sunrise) feasts with friends.

Fruits, sweetened grains, yoghurt and puddings are the main features of a suhoor meal, which is eaten just before sunrise. Iftar time in Dubai sees people enjoy an array of rice-based dishes and grilled meats to help nourish and refuel after a long day of fasting.

If you are visiting the city, check with your hotel concierge about nearby restaurants that offer special Ramadan meals and traditional Emirati cuisine, as most menus will showcase the delicious diversity of regional delicacies during the Holy Month. And if you’re lucky enough to be invited to an Emirati friend’s home, be prepared for a night of great food and conversation that often lasts through to the early hours.

Should I take a gift if I am invited by someone for iftar or suhoor?

If you're invited to an iftar or suhoor, It is customary to take a token of your appreciation for your hosts. This could be a tray of local sweets, a selection of chocolates, a box of dates or a dessert if you are going to someone's house. Other options include something decorative for the home or a bouquet of flowers.

What should tourists be aware of during Ramadan?

During Ramadan, Muslims won't eat, drink or smoke between sunrise and sunset – but this doesn't apply to non-Muslims and tourists who aren't observing the fast. However, there are a few things to bear in mind during Ramadan if you're visiting Dubai.

While there's no requirement for non-Muslims to avoid eating and drinking in public during the day, you may choose to do so out of respect for those fasting. Most restaurants remain open, serving food as normal, so there's no shortage of places to dine at. And children can eat and drink anywhere during the day.

Visitors should also expect the pace of life in Dubai to change. During the Holy Month, most businesses will work fewer hours to accommodate more time for family and prayers. So you should check opening hours, and try to avoid meetings during the late afternoon.

Part of respecting the fast is to recognise that, while it is a challenge, it is one which Muslims take on gladly. Many Muslims eagerly await Ramadan and the opportunity to fast and give back to the community, making the Holy Month a highlight of the year.

Ramadan is when the entire community comes together in an effort to better themselves. Expect family festivities and socialising to continue until the late hours at parks, markets and shopping malls, with an incredible array of iftars to try.

Whether by attempting to keep the fast or helping the poor, you can be a part of the Holy Month in Dubai by embracing customs and wishing friends 'Ramadan Mubarak'.

Are there other events on during the season?

The streets and malls light up with decorations and everyone is invited to share in the joy with a range of evening events, and malls extend their opening hours to accommodate Ramadan late-night activities. Stay tuned to Dubai Calendar to find out all that's on during your visit. We hope you take the time during this special month to join in the spirit of the season.