Many non-Muslim travellers to the United Arab Emirates would be concerned about how they should behave and conduct themselves during Ramadan, the holy month of fasting for Muslims. Whilst there would be several cultural norms that should be followed when visiting Muslim countries, there would be additional customs to keep in mind during this time. Described below are some of the significant aspects of this special period of the year for Muslims that visitors should know as well.

Photo by form PxHere

Understand the significance of Ramadan

You will find that Ramadan happens to be the lunar calendar’s ninth month. In 2023, Ramadan would fall during March and April, with the exact day of commencement to be established by the committee responsible for ‘moon sighting’.
‘Saum’ or fasting is considered one of Islam’s five pillars. During the time of Ramadan, Muslims are also expected to refrain from engaging in activities like eating, drinking, sex, and smoking during the period from sunrise to sunset. It is believed that this abstinence provides the individual with self-awareness, tolerance and patience; additionally, the soul is believed to experience purification from evil influences, whilst the faith is considered to become stronger.

Take note of how to behave

Non-Muslims are expected to help create a suitable public environment for those who happen to be fasting during Ramadan. That said, presently, you would be able to enjoy normal meals and drinks at certain restaurants during fasting hours. On the other hand, you should keep in mind that drinking and eating in general public settings would be socially frowned upon, even if it is no longer illegal. However, within your residence or hotel room, it would be quite possible to eat and drink as you would like during this period. An accommodation choice to consider during Ramadan would be Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort which offers an ideal base for cultural experiences.

Be aware of the guidelines for children

Young children particularly those below the age of six years, whether they are non-Muslim or Muslim are not usually expected to engage in fasting. However, children between the ages of seven and twelve may commence fasting for shorter periods. Meanwhile, all Muslims who have attained the age of puberty, with some exceptions, are required to observe the fast. Accordingly, Dubai schools would commence later and finish earlier at the time of Ramadan. Generally, playgroups and nurseries for younger children would be largely unaffected during this period.

Enjoy the iftar

During Ramadan in Dubai, the breaking of the fast in the evening is announced by a cannon being fired. Iftar is the celebratory meal enjoyed after the conclusion of the fast, usually taken just following sunset. Muslim families enjoy this meal together, and non-Muslims will also have the chance to join an iftar; there would be restaurants in Jumeirah Beach where you could enjoy this meal. Meanwhile, suhoor would be the meal consumed just before the time of sunrise, when the fast would begin again. Numerous hotels and restaurants would provide iftar and suhoor on a lavish scale.

Know the exceptions to the fast

There would be several circumstances when Muslims would be exempt from the obligation to fast during Ramadan. For instance, you would not be compelled to fast if you happen to be pregnant, breastfeeding, diabetic, menstruating, elderly or sick. The general rule would be that fasting would not be obligatory if it would be harmful to the health.
Non-Muslims who happen to be breastfeeding or pregnant should still refrain from openly drinking or eating in public settings, as should non-Muslim children above the age of six. On the other hand, you will find that food services would function at international airports during Ramadan as travellers would be exempt from the obligation to fast; however, Muslims are expected to make up the lost days of fasting later.