During the month of Ramadan, the traditional iftar cannon will once again mark sunset and signal the start of iftar across Dubai
Dubai Police have announced the official locations for the traditional Ramadan cannon firing in 2026, a long-standing custom that signals the end of the daily fast. The iconic cannon continues to bring together families, residents and visitors each year, creating a shared moment across communities at sunset.
Although the official start date of Ramadan 2026 has not yet been confirmed, it is projected to begin on or around Thursday, 19 February 2026, subject to moon sighting. As always, the exact date will be announced by the UAE’s moon-sighting committee closer to the time.
Also read: 4 key changes to expect during Ramadan 2026 in Dubai
Main cannon locations
This year’s main cannon sites are:
- Expo City Dubai
- Vida Creek Harbour Hotel
- Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)
- Dubai Festival City
- Burj Khalifa
Mobile cannon (Madfa’ Rahal)
For the first time in 2026, a mobile cannon, known as Madfa’ Rahal, will travel to 11 community and tourist locations throughout the holy month.
These include:
- Local neighbourhoods and schools
- Bab Al Shams
- Meydan Hotel
- Atlantis The Palm
- Global Village
Dubai Police said the cannon firing is more than a tradition, it reflects the spirit of community, togetherness and the city’s commitment to safety and hospitality during Ramadan.
UAE Ramadan working hours
Employees of ministries and federal government entities will work from 9am to 2.30pm from Monday to Thursday. Working hours on Friday will be from 9am to 12pm except for those whose work nature requires otherwise.
Employees of private sector companies usually see their working day being reduced by two working hours. Private sector companies may apply flexible work patterns or remote work within the limits of the daily working hours specified during the days of the month of Ramadan.
Image: What’s On Archive
