Get a lowdown on rules to follow in Dubai during Ramadan.
Are you new to Dubai and wondering about the dos and don’ts of the Holy Month? If yes, then you’re at the right spot. Get all the information on the code of conduct to be followed while being in Dubai during Ramadan.
Being in Dubai during Ramadan is a great thing to do as one gets to experience the rich Islamic tradition. As opposed to common belief, Ramadan is a great time to be in Dubai. The sacred experience of reflection, worship, and self-improvement means that the otherwise fast-paced city is quieter than usual and the lack of crowds means that your holiday is more relaxed but equally as exciting. As an Islamic state, the United Arab Emirates follows Sharia law and there’s a code of conduct that needs to be followed by both Muslims and non-Muslims during Ramadan.
Ramadan & Its Significance
The ninth month of the Islamic calendar is observed by Muslims worldwide as Ramadan, also known as Ramzan. It is observed as a month when the first revelation of the Quran was made to the Prophet Muhammad according to Islamic belief. Muslims spend the month in reflection and prayers. They focus on their past actions and cleanse themselves for Eid-ul-Fitr.
Know the Key Words and Phrases
Being aware of the Ramadan terminology is a great way to experience the culture of the land and it also does wonders in impressing the locals. Worried as you are unaware of the keywords? We’ve got you covered with a few important and oft-used terms related to Ramadan. Use them while you chat with your Arabic friends and colleagues!
- Iftar: It literally means “to breakfast” and is the first meal after sunset.
- Ramadan Mubarak: It means “Congratulations, it’s Ramadan”,
- Suhoor: The pre-dawn meal before the fast begins for the day.
- Sawm: It stands for fasting and is one of the five pillars of Islam.
- Salah: It is defined as the act of offering prayers 5 times a day and is the second pillar of Islam. Five prayer times are observed throughout the day, the first at dawn, then at noon, mid-afternoon, sunset, and at night.
Know the Dress Code
When in a foreign land, it is respectful to understand and acknowledge your destination’s cultural practices. This is extremely important for Dubai as well, more so during Ramadan.
The city has specific guidelines for Muslims and non-Muslims to be followed during the Holy Month. Talking about the attire, it is recommended that both men and women dress conservatively so as to not offend those who are fasting.
Men can wear shorts, while women need to cover their shoulders and sport knee-length dress/shorts in malls and in public. You can be slightly more relaxed in your hotel room if staying in a beach resort. Care must be taken to refrain from wearing revealing and/or tight clothing.
Tips on Public Behaviour
Ramadan is seen as the contemplative time, and hence, disturbances should be kept to the lowest. Playing loud music in public places is not encouraged. You can use your headphones to listen to music while traveling on public transport, but remember to keep the volume low.
Eating, smoking, drinking, dancing, and swearing in public (this includes streets, offices, and cars) during daylight is a no-no. As a sign of showing basic respect to those observing Ramadan, all food and beverage consumption is to be done indoors and away from public view. Breaking these rules can invite a fine or a reprimand from the police too!
Does this sound strict? Not really. In fact, keeping in mind the convenience of the non-Muslims, cordoned areas are set up throughout the city for those who want to eat. A number of restaurants offer food service during the day while the curtained up food courts at malls cater to the needs of those not fasting. The best plan of action when venturing out is to know the timings and location of these designated spots so that you can plan your meal accordingly.
An easy and better alternative is signing up with Meals On Me while in Dubai during Ramadan. We have an array of delicious and nutritious meals for all – for those who observe Ramadan and those who don’t! We have Iftar special meals alongside our regular meal plans. With both these options, we offer free door delivery – which means you get to save more with no extra charges on delivery!
With Ramadan starting next month, Dubai is gearing up for it. It’s the time when the entire community comes together to reflect and make an effort to be better. Embrace the customs of this great city and uphold the Ramadan spirit to have an unforgettable time!
Enjoy fasting with Meals On Me’s Ramadan Special Plan: Meals On Me – Ramadan Special