Ramadan is the holy month of fasting for Muslims, and it changes the rhythm of daily life in Dubai. Days are quieter, evenings are busy and social, and many visitors find it one of the most interesting times to be in the city. Non-Muslim visitors are not expected to fast, but a few courtesies are appreciated. This guide covers expected 2027 dates, etiquette and how to plan transport during the month.
When is Ramadan 2027?
Ramadan follows the Islamic lunar calendar, so it moves about 10 to 11 days earlier each year. The National reports that Ramadan 2027 is expected to begin around 8 February 2027 in the UAE, lasting 29 or 30 days. The exact start is confirmed by the official moon sighting shortly beforehand, and Eid Al Fitr holidays follow at the end of the month.
Etiquette for visitors
The Government of Dubai’s Ramadan guide and official visitor guidance set out the main points:
- Avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public outdoor places during daylight fasting hours, as a courtesy to those fasting.
- Restaurants, hotels and malls continue to serve food during the day, often in screened or designated areas.
- Dress modestly, particularly in malls, souks and cultural sites.
- Keep music and noise low in public places.
- If invited to an iftar, the evening meal that breaks the fast, accept politely; it is a warm and social occasion.
What changes during the month
Working hours are often shorter, and many businesses and attractions adjust their opening times. Some open later in the day and stay open late into the night. Mosques have special timings: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, for example, publishes separate visiting hours for the first 20 days and the last 10 days of Ramadan. If that is on your plan, see our Grand Mosque visitor guide.
Traffic patterns change too. Roads are often busy just before sunset, as people head home or to iftar, and lively late into the evening. Salik peak hours can also change during Ramadan, according to the official Dubai portal; our Salik guide explains the normal rates.
Getting around during Ramadan
Taxis, app rides and private transfers all run as normal. If you have plans just before sunset, allow extra time, because many people are on the road at the same time. For evening outings to iftar tents, restaurants or events, a pre-booked car with an agreed pickup time avoids searching for a taxi at the busiest moment. Our Dubai chauffeur service and hourly chauffeur pages explain how to book.
Arriving in Dubai during Ramadan
Airports operate normally. Food outlets airside remain open for travellers. After landing, the main difference you may notice is on the roads and in restaurants during the day. Our arrival guide explains the airport process, and the DXB transfer page covers the onward drive.
Iftar and suhoor
Iftar is the meal that breaks the fast at sunset, and suhoor is the meal before dawn. During Ramadan, many hotels and restaurants host iftar buffets and Ramadan tents, and some offer late-night suhoor. These are often social, festive occasions and open to visitors. Booking is a good idea, especially at weekends. Because many guests arrive at the same time just before sunset, plan to reach the venue a little early.
Getting home after iftar or suhoor can be easier with a pre-booked car. Agree a pickup time, or use an hourly booking if your evening includes several stops, such as iftar, a walk through a lit-up souk, and dessert elsewhere.
Dress and behaviour
Modest dress is appreciated throughout the year in public places, and especially during Ramadan. Covering shoulders and knees in malls, souks and cultural sites is a good rule. Public displays of affection, loud music and swearing are best avoided. These are courtesies rather than complicated rules, and most visitors find people welcoming and patient.
Eid Al Fitr
Ramadan ends with Eid Al Fitr, a holiday period with family gatherings, events and often fireworks. The exact dates depend on the moon sighting. Eid can be a busy time for travel, as many residents take short trips or go home, so book flights and transfers early if your trip spans the end of Ramadan.
Working and business travel during Ramadan
Business continues during Ramadan, but meeting times often shift and working hours are usually shorter. If you are visiting for work, check meeting times with your hosts and allow for slower afternoons. Our corporate transfers page explains how to send a multi-day schedule.
Quick checklist for a Ramadan visit
- Check the expected Ramadan and Eid dates for your trip
- Avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public outdoor places in daylight
- Check opening hours for attractions and restaurants
- Book iftar venues in advance at weekends
- Allow extra travel time just before sunset
- Dress modestly in public places
Ramadan is a time of generosity and community, and visitors who follow these simple courtesies usually find it a rewarding time to experience Dubai.
Visiting other emirates during Ramadan
The same courtesies apply in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and the other emirates. Attractions may have different hours, so check before a day trip. Our inter-emirate transfers page explains how to plan journeys between emirates.
Related guides
For timing your trip around Ramadan and other seasonal events, see our best time to visit Dubai guide. If you plan to visit Abu Dhabi, the Grand Mosque guide lists the different Ramadan visiting hours published by the mosque. For evenings out, the taxi and app guide explains the main options. All of our planning guides are listed on the transfer guides page.
Many visitors find that the evenings are the highlight of a Ramadan trip. Streets, malls and souks come alive after sunset, decorations and lights go up across the city, and there is a strong sense of community. Planning daytime activities indoors and keeping the evenings free for iftar and late walks is a good way to enjoy the month while respecting those who are fasting.
Book transfers for a Ramadan trip
Use our quote request form, or email info@belgraviatransfers.com, with your dates, hotel and any evening plans. We reply with availability and a quote. See also our Dubai airport transfer page.
Frequently asked questions
When does Ramadan start in 2027?
It is expected to begin around 8 February 2027, subject to the official moon sighting.
Do tourists have to fast during Ramadan in Dubai?
No. Non-Muslim visitors are not expected to fast, but should avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public outdoor places during daylight hours.
Are restaurants open during Ramadan in Dubai?
Yes. Many restaurants, hotels and malls serve food during the day, often in designated areas.
Do opening hours change during Ramadan?
Often, yes. Many businesses and attractions adjust their hours, and some open late into the night.
Is traffic different during Ramadan?
Roads are often busy just before sunset and lively in the evening. Allow extra time for journeys around iftar.
What is iftar?
Iftar is the meal that breaks the fast at sunset. Many hotels and restaurants host iftar meals open to visitors.
Facts on this page were checked against the sources linked above on 17 October 2026. Dates, prices and opening hours can change, so confirm them with the official source before you travel.
