For residents, visitors, and businesses, Ramadan also brings changes to daily routines, working hours, and dining schedules. Here is a complete and accurate guide based on UAE authorities and established regulations.

Ramadan 2026 Start and End Date in the UAE

According to astronomical calculations and the UAE’s moon-sighting system:

• Expected start of Ramadan 2026: Thursday, 19 February 2026
• Expected end of Ramadan: Thursday, 19 March 2026
• Eid Al Fitr: Expected to begin on Friday, 20 March 2026

As per UAE practice, the official start and end dates will be confirmed by the UAE Moon-Sighting Committee after the sighting of the crescent moon. Dates may shift by one day depending on moon visibility.

Daily Fasting Timings in Dubai (Suhoor & Iftar)

Fasting during Ramadan takes place from dawn (Fajr) to sunset (Maghrib). Timings change slightly each day.

Expected Dubai Timings (Approximate)

• Suhoor (pre-dawn meal): Ends between 5:05 AM – 5:40 AM
• Iftar (breaking fast): Between 6:15 PM – 6:30 PM

Because Ramadan 2026 falls during late winter and early spring, fasting hours will be relatively shorter compared to summer months.

➡️ Exact daily prayer and fasting times are officially issued by UAE mosques and Islamic authorities during Ramadan.

Official Working Hours During Ramadan in the UAE

Private Sector (All Emirates)

Under UAE Labour Law, all private-sector employees are entitled to:

• A reduction of two working hours per day during Ramadan
• This applies to all employees, regardless of religion

Actual start and end times are set by employers, provided the total daily working hours are reduced.

Public Sector (Federal & Local Government)

UAE government entities operate on reduced working hours during Ramadan, as announced by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR).

• Working days are shortened
• Flexible and remote work arrangements may be applied where operationally possible

Exact schedules are officially announced closer to Ramadan and may vary slightly by emirate and department.

Restaurants, Malls, and Daily Life

• Eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours should be avoided
• Many restaurants remain closed during the day and open after sunset
• Hotels and malls usually provide designated dining areas for non-fasting guests
• Shopping malls stay open late into the night, especially after iftar

After sunset, cities across the UAE come alive with iftar gatherings, Ramadan tents, and night shopping.

Iftar, Suhoor, and Ramadan Traditions

• Iftar is traditionally opened with dates and water, followed by evening prayer
• Suhoor is taken before dawn and helps sustain fasting throughout the day
• Mosques host Taraweeh prayers every night
• The last ten nights include Laylat Al Qadr (Night of Power), the most sacred night of Ramadan

Charity and community initiatives play a major role, with widespread iftar distribution and donation drives across the UAE.

What Visitors Should Know

• Dress modestly in public areas
• Respect prayer times and mosque surroundings
• Entertainment continues but in a calmer, respectful manner
• Alcohol is served only in licensed venues, mainly after sunset

Ramadan is widely regarded as one of the best times to experience Emirati culture, hospitality, and community values.

Ramadan 2026 at a Glance (UAE)

Final Note

All timings and schedules are subject to official UAE authority confirmation. Residents and visitors are advised to follow announcements from local mosques, government channels, and official media.