Ramadan, the Holy Month, is one of the most important periods of the year for Muslims in the UAE and throughout the world. Ramadan is observed to commemorate the ninth month in which the Qu’ran was originally revealed to the Prophet Muhammad, Peace Be Upon Him. During this time, families commemorate the Holy Month by fasting, praying, and spending time together, as well as participating in a variety of community-focused events. We cover the best Ramadan guide for locals and visitors alike in the United Arab Emirates below.

Acknowledging Suhoor, Siyam, and Iftar

Suhoor is the first and most important meal of the day before Muslims begin fasting. Suhoor is practiced before dawn to pray at the morning “adhaan,” or call to prayer, and to enjoy suhoor with family. Weekday suhoor is often spent at home with family, although many Muslims eat out at restaurants or luxury Ramadan tents before beginning the day of fasting.

Siyam, which means “to withhold,” refers to the hours spent fasting from dawn to sunset throughout the Holy Month. At this period, Muslims are not permitted to drink, eat, or smoke, and they must refrain from bad behaviors and thoughts. Siyam represents the purification of the body, mind, and soul from impurities, while focusing one’s thoughts and activities on prayer, thanks, salvation, and charity acts for the less fortunate.

Iftar takes place at dusk, when Muslims break their fast with water and customary dates before prayer time, followed by a vast buffet of favorite iftar foods to be shared with loved ones. Biryani, saloona, samosas, fruits, and sumptuous sweets like as kunafa and basbousa are popular iftar meals.

The Value of Charitable Giving During Ramadan

Muslims give 2.5% of their earnings or savings to the less fortunate once a year during Ramadan as part of the zakat payment. Giving back to the community is also highly valued by Muslims, who provide meals for the mosque, their neighbors, the underprivileged, and those who work during iftar and are unable to return home to break their fast. The spirit of Ramadan encourages Muslims to attempt to put themselves in the shoes of the impoverished and carry out good actions within their communities, therefore sharing and giving back are crucial.

Ramadan Etiquette in the UAE

Sending your greetings of “Ramadan Kareem” or “Ramadan Mubarak” with Muslims during this time is a kind and polite manner of exchanging blessings. It is necessary to dress modestly, therefore wear loose clothes that covers the knees and elbows. Non-Muslims are expected to respect people who fast by refraining from eating, drinking, or smoking in public places. Restaurants will continue to provide food to non-fasters as usual.

Embracing Ramadan Culture and Traditions

Visitors wishing to immerse themselves in UAE culture may particularly appreciate visiting the souks and marketplaces during Ramadan. While you’re in Dubai, you may also learn about the city’s history at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding in the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood. Non-Muslims who want to fast for a day are free to do so; just make sure you eat a good and nutritious iftar and suhoor to keep your body going.

If you are asked to an iftar, it is courteous to accept, and it is a terrific opportunity to enjoy this beautiful time of year while learning about UAE culture. To demonstrate your thanks, bring a present for your host, such as dates. During Ramadan, you may also visit local eateries to sample traditional Arabic main meals and pastries.

About Eid

After the Holy Month of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr with friends and family, feasting on a variety of traditional meals, donning new garb for the occasion, and taking part in other celebrations. In the UAE, Eid is a busy time of year and a public holiday that can last up to three days. The second Eid of the year, Eid al-Adha, occurs about 70 days after Ramadan finishes. Also, it is a long-lasting (up to 3 or 4 days) public holiday.

For Muslims, Ramadan is without a doubt a very significant period of the year when they may atone for their sins, purify their bodies and minds, and also help the less fortunate. If you are a non-Muslim residing in the UAE, be sure to honor this season and partake in the customs and cuisine.

Ramadan Kareem by Jinou Trading

This year, have the ideal iftar present to show your thanks throughout this holy month! Without a delightful return present, a workplace party or iftar supper would be lacking. The Customizable Ramadan Chocolate or Dates Gift Boxes from Jinou Trading are attractive and reasonably priced, so we’ve got you covered. 

Or, if you’re looking to mix and match, we have a variety of options to choose from. Our signature Moon Shaped Lamp and Speakeris just one of many!

Alternatively, the Jinou Trading Ramadan gift basket is the perfect option if you can’t decide! Ramadan gift basket is guaranteed to be the most sought-after item this season. It has something for everyone, including a handcrafted prayer mat, prayer beads, the direction of the Qibla, a bukhur burner, and greeting cards.

Written By

Wassam Khan