From shorter working hours to revised rules around eating in public, here are the important changes to know about
Ramadan in Dubai is a special time of year, bringing people together – whether fasting or not – to pause, reflect and give back. The ninth month of the Islamic calendar, Ramadan is the most holy time of the year, when Muslims around the world abstain from eating, drinking, or smoking between sunrise and sunset.
During Ramadan in Dubai, even if you’re not fasting, there are a number of rules and etiquette changes to expect.
Here are 4 key changes to know about during Ramadan 2026 in Dubai.
Reduced office hours
Each year, working hours are reduced during Ramadan both for the public and private sectors. The official announcement will be given by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources, but last year, employees of Ministries and Federal government entities had their working hours reduced to 9am to 2.30pm from Monday to Thursday and from 9am to 12pm on Fridays.
Employees of private sector companies typically see their working day reduced by two hours.
Revised etiquette around eating and drinking in public
Although most restaurants in Dubai will remain open and serve food and drink as usual, eating, drinking and smoking during daylight hours should be done with caution.
Eating and drinking in public spaces, like malls and on public transport, is not permitted.
Remember, people around you may be fasting, so be considerate of others.
Live music
Out of respect for the Holy Month, live music in Dubai is generally paused, with no concerts and live, loud performances taking place. Low-level, background music is still common in public spaces and restaurants.
Some venues may feature traditional or acoustic entertainment, such as the Oud or Qanun, typically during iftar or suhoor.
Iftar will be served at most restaurants
At sunset, many restaurants will serve iftar, the meal Muslims have to break their fast, alongside their regular menu. In some cases, this may be a more traditional iftar buffet; in others, you might expect a set menu that leans more into the restaurant’s cuisine.
If you’re looking to visit one of the city’s most traditional Ramadan tents, Asateer at Atlantis, The Palm, The Majlis at DWTC and Madinat Jumeirah.
When is Ramadan 2026 in Dubai?
According to the Emirates Astronomical Society, Thursday, February 19, is the likely start date for the Holy Month this year. However, it will be confirmed with the sighting of the crescent moon closer to the time.
As with all months in the Islamic calendar, Ramadan will last either 29 or 30 days, with the last day of Ramadan decided by the sighting of the moon.
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