What tourists in UAE need to know about Ramadan

What tourists in UAE need to know about Ramadan

Ramadan is a time when people are united in fasting and prayers. A month of fasting ends with celebrations, feast and festivities. If you happen to be travelling or staying temporarily in countries like the UAE, it would be advisable to understand some do’s and don’ts around the cultural norms during the month of Ramadan.

What to expect?

In Islam, Ramadan is considered the most pious time, where a person spends time in holding their faith strong, prayers, observe fasting as a form of penance and sacrifice, and also be involved in humanitarian acts of love and kindness to fellow human beings. Here are some common Ramadan etiquette and tips to keep in mind while in the UAE during this time. 

1. “Ramadan Mubarak” or “Ramadan Kareem” is an accepted form of greeting when meeting someone during the time of Ramadan.
2. Working hours will be till early afternoon in most establishments across UAE.
3. Peak rush hours would be post-sunset after everyone has broken their fast.
4. If you are a non-Muslim, you are not expected to observe fasting. You can decide to observe or abstain from fasting.
5. Ensure that when you are part of a group that consists of Muslims, you respect their tradition of fasting and prayers.
6. Abstain from smoking and drinking alcohol in public.
7. Avoid consuming food or beverages in public spaces outside restaurants, food courts and other designated areas.
8. Mosques and places of worship which are also tourist attractions will be good places to visit as the tourist may get to know better about Islam, the culture and the religious traditions more during Ramadan.
9. Restaurants host special Iftars or sunset feasts everyday during Ramadan.
10. Ramadan is also a month for shopping in UAE. Most stores and retail outlets will be running special sales at discounted rates. Special shopping expos can also be expected as one nears the end of Ramadan.
11. Eid-ul- Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, when the month long fasting ends. A tourist can be part of the colourful charm and hustle-bustle in the UAE.

Autorent car rental in UAE works normal hours, for the benefit of tourists. One can easily get cars for rent without waiting for long. Cars for rent in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are easily available on call. Special tourist packages are also provided by Autorent throughout the month. A tourist can make use of the time wisely and still get the most out of travelling, shopping, and living in UAE during Ramadan. For many, it has been one of the greatest holiday experiences.