Discover How UAE Celebrates Ramadan with Traditions, Food, and Unity 2025

Lifestyle1 month ago

Ramadan in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is more than a month of fasting. It is a time of spirituality, reflection, togetherness, and cultural celebration. The holy month, observed by Muslims across the world, takes on a unique flavor in the UAE, blending religious devotion with deep-rooted traditions, warm hospitality, and modern cultural events. From the sound of the cannon marking the end of the fast to the dazzling Ramadan tents serving aromatic delicacies, every aspect of this month is a reminder of faith and unity.

This article explores the traditions, food, and celebrations of Ramadan in the UAE, offering an inside look into how this holy month is cherished by both residents and visitors.

The Spirit of Ramadan in the UAE

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and holds immense significance in the Muslim world. It is believed to be the month when the first verses of the Holy Quran were revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). In the UAE, where Islam is deeply rooted in daily life, Ramadan brings a visible transformation to society.

Daily Life: Working hours in offices, schools, and government institutions are reduced to accommodate fasting. Shopping malls and restaurants adjust their timings, with many opening late into the night.
Atmosphere: Streets, mosques, and homes are decorated with lanterns and fairy lights, creating a festive glow. The sense of calm during the day is replaced by vibrant activity after sunset.
Community Bonding: Families, friends, and even strangers gather for iftar (the meal to break the fast), embodying the spirit of generosity and hospitality.

Ramadan is not only about abstaining from food and drink from dawn to sunset but also about patience, self-control, and compassion. In the UAE, these values shine through community-driven initiatives like food drives, charity campaigns, and volunteering efforts.

Traditional Ramadan Practices in the UAE

The UAE’s Ramadan traditions are a rich mix of Islamic rituals and Emirati cultural practices.

Firing of the Cannon
A centuries-old tradition continues in the UAE, where a cannon is fired at sunset to announce the end of the daily fast. Families and children often gather near these cannons, especially at landmarks like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi and various Dubai neighborhoods, to witness the symbolic moment.
Iftar Gatherings
Iftar begins with dates and water, following the Prophet’s tradition, before moving on to a grand meal. In the UAE, iftar is often a community event. Large tents are set up by mosques, charities, and even hotels, where free meals are distributed to workers and those in need.
Suhoor Nights
Suhoor, the pre-dawn meal, is equally important. Many families stay awake late into the night, enjoying light meals and gatherings in Ramadan tents that remain open until the early hours.
Taraweeh Prayers
After isha (night prayers), Muslims perform taraweeh prayers in mosques across the UAE. These special prayers bring people together, and in major mosques, the congregation can number in the thousands.

Food: A Culinary Celebration

Ramadan in the UAE is a culinary feast that blends Emirati flavors with international cuisines, reflecting the country’s diverse population.

Traditional Emirati Dishes: Favorites include harees (a slow-cooked wheat and meat dish), thareed (bread soaked in stew), and machboos (spiced rice with meat). These dishes are cooked in homes and served in Ramadan tents.
Sweets and Desserts: No iftar table is complete without luqaimat (sweet fried dumplings drizzled with date syrup), qatayef (stuffed pancakes), and dates of all varieties.
Refreshing Drinks: Beverages like jallab (a sweet date drink), qamar al-din (apricot juice), and laban (buttermilk) are popular choices to quench thirst after long fasting hours.
Modern Buffets: With its cosmopolitan lifestyle, the UAE also offers lavish iftar and suhoor buffets at hotels and restaurants, featuring global cuisines alongside traditional dishes.

The act of sharing food is central to Ramadan, and in the UAE, it reflects the values of generosity and hospitality that the country is known for.

Celebrations and Events During Ramadan

The holy month is not just about reflection it is also filled with cultural activities and family-friendly events.

Ramadan Tents and Majlis: Luxury hotels and cultural venues set up special tents and majlis spaces for iftar and suhoor. These gatherings feature live music, traditional décor, and Middle Eastern hospitality.
Shopping Festivals: Dubai and Abu Dhabi host Ramadan night markets and late-night shopping festivals, where families shop for clothes, home décor, and Eid gifts. Malls extend their hours to accommodate the festive crowd.
Charity Campaigns: In line with the spirit of giving, organizations and individuals launch initiatives to provide meals, distribute food packs, and donate to those in need. Campaigns like the UAE’s “One Billion Meals” program highlight the country’s commitment to humanitarian efforts.
Cultural Programs: Museums, cultural centers, and mosques organize lectures, Quran recitations, and educational sessions to deepen the spiritual connection of Ramadan.

Eid al-Fitr: The Grand Conclusion

Ramadan in the UAE culminates in Eid al-Fitr, a joyous festival marking the end of fasting. The day begins with a special congregational prayer, followed by family visits, gift exchanges, and festive meals. Homes are decorated, new clothes are worn, and children receive Eidiya (money or gifts).

In the UAE, Eid is also a public holiday, with fireworks, cultural shows, and family entertainment held across the Emirates, making it one of the most vibrant times of the year.

Ramadan as a Visitor in the UAE

For tourists and expatriates, Ramadan offers a unique chance to experience Emirati culture. While eating and drinking in public during fasting hours is restricted, visitors can explore the country’s cultural richness in the evenings. From visiting bustling iftar tents to attending Ramadan markets, it is a time when the UAE reveals a warm and welcoming side of its heritage.

Conclusion

Ramadan in the UAE is a fusion of faith, tradition, and celebration. Beyond fasting, it is a month of giving, family bonding, and cultural appreciation. Whether it is savoring the flavors of Emirati cuisine, witnessing the firing of the cannon, or taking part in charitable activities, Ramadan offers a deeper understanding of the UAE’s values and way of life.

For residents and visitors alike, the holy month is not only a spiritual journey but also a celebration of community and unity hallmarks of life in the Emirates.