The silence of the morning streets, waiting for sunset, and the smells of cooking that fill the houses long before Iftar. This is not just a religious period of the Islamic calendar. This is a special state of society that stretches over 29-30 days and is associated with the lunar cycle and the appearance of the crescent moon.
About 74.5% of the country’s population profess Islam. Almost 96% of citizens actively participate in fasting. Therefore, Ramadan is not a private practice, but a general rhythm that everyone feels: residents and guests alike.
Daytime Restraint And Evening Iftar
Fasting starts at dawn. From now on, you can’t eat or drink. Even taking a sip of water in a public place becomes a violation. Abstinence continues until sunset, when it is time for iftar, the main event of the day.
Iftar is rarely hasty. It is opened with dates and water, then hot dishes are served. Families gather at the same table. Conversations become animated. The tension of the daily fast is gradually fading.
There is a suhur before dawn. This early meal helps you get through the next day. Some people prefer the easy option. Others prepare a full breakfast. In certain areas, suhur is served even at 02:00-04:00, and the night turns into a continuation of social life.
Working hours change. A bus driver with 15 years of experience works only six hours a day during Ramadan. The taxi driver, who has been in the profession since 2009, takes a shift from 16:00 to 04:00 and takes a two-hour break to talk. The roads are congested in the evening. People are rushing home by sunset. Tension increases at dusk, so drivers are advised to remain calm and avoid sudden maneuvers, and some residents prefer to book a chauffeur service in dubai to return home quietly before iftar.
Law, Restrictions, And Public Space
Ramadan regulates not only personal habits, but also behavior in a public environment. During daylight hours, it is forbidden to eat, drink or chew gum in public places, including transport and cars. A fine of up to 2000 dirhams is provided for violation, which is approximately 544.52 US dollars. These norms are enshrined in article 313 of the Federal Criminal Code.
Restaurants continue to operate, but they organize closed areas for the non-fasting. Meals should take place out of sight of those who observe the fast. Modest clothes are becoming the rule. Shoulders and knees should be covered, transparent fabrics and excessively tight styles should be avoided.
Loud music, aggressive behavior, and public displays of affection are unacceptable. Smoking is allowed only in designated areas. During certain periods, there was a restriction on gatherings of no more than ten people in private spaces, while maintaining a distance. Visits to people over the age of 60 and people with chronic diseases were recommended to be reduced. The transfer of food outside the household was prohibited, except for charitable initiatives under official supervision.
Family, Food Delivery And Night Markets
Despite the strictness of the rules, Ramadan is filled with warmth. An invitation to an iftar is considered a sign of respect. Refusal may be perceived as impoliteness. It is customary to arrive on time and thank the hosts.
Most families prefer to celebrate iftar at home. At the same time, about 29% of citizens use food delivery services during Ramadan. Samosa, biryani, dates and sweets appear on the tables. Charity plays an important role in fostering a sense of community solidarity.
Cities change after sunset. Night markets are opening. Shopping malls are extending their opening hours. A cannon shot at sunset remains a symbol of the end of the day’s fast. At this moment, the city seems to take a deep breath and begin to live anew.
Ramadan in the UAE is a combination of discipline, law and sincere hospitality. He’s strict during the day. It’s bright at night. And it is precisely in this contrast that his real strength lies.
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