We are just 2 days away from Ramadan 2019 and Dubai has already started preparing for it. Ramadan is the holy month in Islamic Calendar during which Muslims observe fasting from sunrise to sunset. As with other Emirates in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai becomes quieter and slows down its economic pace which, otherwise, is always racing ahead and busy.

Here is everything you need to know about Ramadan 2019 in Dubai.

Beginning of Ramadan, 2019

The beginning of the month of Ramadan is subject to moon sighting. However, the start date of Ramadan is expected to be 6^th May according to the International Astronomical Centre.

Working Hours in the UAE

Working hours for the private sector in UAE is reduced by 2 hours during the holy month of Ramadan. As per the official website of the UAE, even Non-Muslims are entitled to reduced working hours during Ramadan without a pay cut.

Restaurants and Groceries.

Most of the restaurants remain closed for the day during Ramadan. They open during the evenings. However, some might offer services during the day but are expected to do so within enclosures and privately.

You are expected to eat privately whatever you order from cafes or restaurants if you are not fasting.

Malls and groceries remain open as usual and you are free to do any kind of shopping.

Read: Drones Delivering free food during Ramadan

Iftar Cannon

Iftar is the moment when Muslims break their fast. In the United Arab Emirates, cannons are fired across many regions in UAE signaling the Iftar. This sound can be heard 8-10KM away. Members of the UAE army carry out this tradition.

This is the most fun part of Ramadan for children in UAE as they close their ears anticipating the sound of ‘Big Bang’.

Expectations from Non-Muslims During Ramadan

Non-Muslims are not bound to fast during Ramadan in Dubai. However, they are required to prohibit eating openly in public during the day time.

Nightclubs and Alcohol

Most of the nightclubs remain closed during Ramadan. If any club is open, then that won’t have live music and dance shows.

Tourist Attractions During Ramadan

If you are planning to visit Dubai during Ramadan 2019, then some of the tourist attractions you can explore are:

• Burj Khalifa Opens at 10:00 am.
• Dubai Palm Cruise: No drinks served.
• Desert Safari: Have the fun of riding through Desert Safari in Dubai.
• Dubai Mall: It’s a Dubai’s premier mall and provides an entry to Burj Khalifa.
• Dubai Museum: Visit the museum built in Al-Fahidi Fort.
• Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House: Visit this residence of the king who ruled Dubai from 1921 to 1958

Transport

Timings for the transport change during this month. Operating time for the Dubai metro also changes. The change in timings is announced in leading Media platforms.

Prayer times

You can find the prayer timings here

Healthy Tips for Ramadan

1. Hydrate before eating

Drink 1 or 2 glasses of water at least 1.5 hours before the meal. It will keep your body well hydrated.

2. Break the fast with Dates

Dates are a natural nutritious source of sugar having plenty of health benefits.

3. Eat plenty of Vegetables

Vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fibers. Vegetables are must in Ramadhan.

4. Avoid food high in salt and sugar

Whenever possible, stay away from food high in salt and sugar. Prefer natural sugar in fruits, and fruit salads.

5. Don’t rush for food

After staying hungry for all day, don’t rush for food at Iftar and overload your stomach. It may lead to indigestion and other gastric problems. Instead, eat in a phased manner taking breaks in between.

So, winding this up, wishing you a very happy Ramadan Kareem Mubarak from all of us at XploreDubai.