What are Ramadan and Eid like as a resident?

Ramadan, the Muslim holy month, is a special time in the UAE, and many non-Muslim residents say it’s one of their favourite times of year. Here’s what changes, and how to take part with respect.

What changes during Ramadan

• Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. Non-Muslims don’t have to, but shouldn’t eat, drink or smoke in public in daylight
• Private-sector working hours are cut by 2 hours a day
• Restaurants stay open
• Evenings come alive: iftar (the meal that breaks the fast at sunset) and suhoor (the meal before dawn) are social occasions
• Dress a little more modestly than usual in public places, and keep music low in public

Taking part

• Accept an invitation to iftar if you get one: it’s a generous, welcoming tradition
• Hotels and community centres hold iftars and Ramadan tents that anyone can book
• Say “Ramadan Kareem” to wish people a generous Ramadan
• Be patient with colleagues who are fasting, and avoid lunch meetings
• Many people give to charity during Ramadan. Use registered charities

Eid al-Fitr

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan. Public and private-sector employees get the first 3 days of the next month off, plus the 30th day of Ramadan if the month runs to 30 days. Combined with a weekend, that can make a break of up to six days. Eid al-Adha follows about ten weeks later, with another holiday.