The Holy Month of Ramadan is a festive period in Dubai’s calendar. Here’s what tourists need to know about marking this annual holiday with the rest of the city.

Miansari66, Iftar 2, CC0 1.0

Forget What You’ve Heard

Although most Islamic cities are largely operating at a lower capacity and generally deemed to be “closed for business” during the Ramadan season, the same cannot be said for Dubai. The city is not only open to travellers but hospitality hubs in Dubai including the Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort and most of the Palm Jumeirah hotels go all out to bring the festive feeling to non-Muslim visitors with thematic events and buffets.

Timing

Ramadan takes centre stage in cities and Islamic nations all across the world on the 9th month according to the Islamic calendar. For 2023, the Ramadan festivities are set to begin on 23rd March and will end a month later on April 23rd. Tourists should remember that the dates are determined according to the moon sightings and that the festival dates move back 10 days every year so it is best to check Dubai travel websites when planning your holidays around this time of year.

Why is Ramadan a Sacred Event?

Considered the holiest period in the Islamic year, Ramadan commences with a month-long fasting season in which devotees refrain from consuming food or drink from sunrise to sunset. Most locals will consume a large meal called “suhoor” before morning prayers and will not eat or drink again until evening prayer time.

What to Do

Apart from digging into decadent Ramadan meals served in local hotels and restaurants, visitors can also shop at Ramadan Markets including the Expo City Ramadan Night Market, Al Seef Night Market and the Ramadan Night Market at Dubai World Trade Center.