Ramadan 2024 in Abu Dhabi

The Holy Month of Ramadan, which is the ninth month of the Islamic Hijri calendar, is one of the most important periods in Muslim countries, including the UAE. In this article you will learn more about Ramadan and its traditions, as well as get the most important information about working hours of banks, shopping malls and entertainment destinations. It will also help you to plan your holidays and enjoy a new experience around this sacred time.

Ramadan is considered to be the holiest month of the year in the Muslim world. During this month the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

Ramadan Dates in 2024

Islamic dates do not fall on the same day in the Gregorian calendar, as the Islamic lunar calendar lasts for 354 days. This means that Ramadan, as well as other months, arrive about 11 days earlier every year.

The Holy Month of Ramadan is observed by Muslims from all over the world and lasts from one sighting of the crescent to another, which takes 29 or 30 days. The exact dates of the beginning of Ramadan are determined by a special Committee on the Observation of the Moon a night or two before the beginning of the Holy Month. According to astronomical forecasts in 2024, it will begin on March 11.

Muslim Ramadan Traditions

During the holiest month of the year, Muslims abstain from food and drink from dawn to dusk, as well as try to strengthen their faith and religious practices through praying and reciting the Quran. Families gather together, as the month brings the feeling of togetherness. The first night of the Holy Month is usually held at the house of the male head of the family.

It’s worth noting that apart from fasting and spending time with close ones, Muslims take part in charitable activities, like giving money, food or clothes. Free meals for Iftar at places like mosques, shopping centres and other public places, is normal practice in the UAE. Some Muslims also go on Umrah, which is an optional pilgrimage to the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), to the city of Makkah, Saudi Arabia.

During the last 10 days of Ramadan, the piety increases, which can be explained by the falling of Laylat Al Qadr, the night when the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Usually this is celebrated on the 27th night of Ramadan.

Note: Fasting isn’t obligatory for pregnant ladies and children, as well as individuals who suffer from illnesses. Those who are traveling can fast later.

Rules for Non-Muslims

Non-Muslims aren’t required to fast, however, they are obliged to follow several rules. In accordance with the official UAE government portal, tourists and residents of the country are prohibited from:

• Eating, drinking, chewing gum and smoking in public areas.
• Dancing or playing music in public, however, they are able to listen to music via headphones.
• Behaving aggressively
• Swearing, because blasphemy is more offensive during the Holy Month in comparison to other months.
• Wearing inappropriate clothes.
• Refusing an invitation to someone’s Iftar as well as refusing to take a gift.

Note: The firing of cannons which symbolises the end of the fast and the beginning of Iftar takes place throughout Abu Dhabi on a daily basis, as well as other emirates during the Holy Month. One of the most famous locations in the Emirati capital where you can see it with your own eyes is near the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

Spending time in Abu Dhabi during Ramadan might be an unforgettable experience. However, it might be better to learn more about the working hours of banks, dining venues and shopping malls before you plan your journey.

Ramadan Working Hours for Banks & Shops

In accordance with the UAE Labour Law, working hours for private sectors are reduced by two hours. During this period, banks have shortened work days. However, branches located in shopping malls may adhere to a more visitor-friendly schedule. The opening hours of the institution can be clarified by calling the bank or going to their application/website.

Just before the start of Ramadan, shopping malls publish updated opening hours on their websites and social networking sites. If they are usually open from 10:00 to 22:00 from Sunday to Thursday and from 10:00 to 00:00 on Friday and Saturday, then during the Holy Month the opening hours are extended. The opening hours of popular shopping centres in 2024 will be as follows:

• Yas Mall – from 10am to 1am daily
• Abu Dhabi Mall – from 10am to 12am from Sunday to Thursday, from 10am to 1am on Friday and Saturday
• Marina Mall – from 10am to 1am from Sunday to Thursday, from 10am to 2am on Friday and Saturday
• Al Wahda – 10:00 am to 00:00 Sunday to Thursday, 10:00 am to 01:00 am on Friday and Saturday
• The Galleria Al Maryah Island – from 10am to 1am from Sunday to Thursday, from 10am to 2am on Friday and Saturday

Note: It’s worth noting that it might be quite difficult to find a taxi at sunset time, as taxi drivers usually break their fast and enjoy Iftar as well. That’s why it’s advisable to book a vehicle in advance or change your departure time to either a little earlier or later. Moreover, parking times also change a bit during Ramadan. You will find the actual information on the parking metres and government transport entities.

Ramadan Working Hours for Dining Venues

During the Holy Month of Ramadan there are two main meals, including:

1. Iftar is the meal which symbolises the break of the fast after sunset. Usually people enjoy dates, dried apricots as well as juices. After this Muslims go to an evening prayer and then gather with family members for larger meals.
2. Suhoor is a light meal before the morning fast.

If you are not Muslim, but wish to taste traditional dishes, don’t miss the chance to visit the generous iftar buffets in dining venues such as Li Beirut, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, The Majlis by the Sea, Michelin-starred Talea by Antonio Guida, Hakkasan Abu Dhabi and Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi.

Previously, most cafes and restaurants closed during daylight hours or only served food behind screens. But, due to the growing number of foreigners in the UAE, restaurants and shopping mall food courts will remain open. Non-Muslims can eat at any convenient time.

Ramadan Discounts & Promotions in the UAE

The Holy Month of Ramadan is one of the best times for shopping online and offline, as local and international brands offer amazing discounts and promotions which can’t be missed. In honour of the holiday, Union Coop, Choithrams and Viva supermarkets are reducing prices by up to 50% on thousands of goods, and the popular company Nesto is offering favourable installment terms and special offers on household appliances and household goods.

Moreover, various performances and events take place in the malls throughout Ramadan, which will help you to have fun with your friends and family. During this month, malls offer attractive promotions. For example, Dalma Mall is offering branded clothing and household goods at greatly reduced prices. Home Center, a major furniture manufacturer, is providing discounts of up to 70% in honour of Ramadan. Giordano and Marks & Spencer are offering ‘buy one, get one free’ deals on their clothing. You will be able to learn more about the upcoming events from the official resources of the shopping centres, several days before the beginning of the Holy Month.

Visiting the UAE during the Holy Month of Ramadan might be a good experience for those interested in living in this country and wishing to learn more about local traditions and cultural experiences. Following the basic rules will prevent you from avoiding any potential problems and will enable you to enjoy your stay to the maximum. Moreover, many developers offer Ramadan promotions, which means that it’s definitely worth sticking around to make the most of a superb Ramadan investment opportunity.