Ramadan is a month of fasting, reflection, and community, and in Abu Dhabi, it comes with some important guidelines for residents, expats, and visitors. Whether you’re new to the city or just need a refresher, here’s what you should know to approach this holy month respectfully.

No Eating, Drinking, or Smoking in Public

During daylight hours, avoid eating, drinking, chewing gum, or smoking in public. These rules apply to everyone, regardless of religion. Breaking them could result in fines of up to AED 2,000 or even a short jail term. That said, many restaurants and cafés now stay open indoors without requiring curtains, so non-Muslims can dine discreetly inside.

Dress Modestly during Ramadan

Abu Dhabi is usually quite relaxed about fashion, but during Ramadan, dressing conservatively is a sign of respect. Covering shoulders and knees when in public is a good rule of thumb.

Keep Noise Levels Down

Ramadan is a time of peace and contemplation. Playing loud music, dancing, or making excessive noise in public is discouraged. Many bars stay open but lower the volume or turn off music entirely. If you need your tunes, use headphones.

Alcohol Availability during Ramadan

Licensed venues may still serve alcohol, but some places pause service during the day. It’s best to check ahead with your chosen venue.

Adjusted Work and Business Hours

  • Work hours: employees in the UAE have their workdays shortened by two hours, even if they’re not fasting.
  • Shopping malls: many extend their hours, staying open until 1 AM or 2 AM on weekends.
  • Restaurants: some remain closed until sunset, while others serve food indoors during the day.
  • Parking: paid parking timings may change, so check signs or official government websites for updates.

Be Careful on the Roads at Iftar

As sunset approaches and people rush home for Iftar, traffic can get chaotic. Many fasting drivers may be tired or in a hurry, so be extra cautious on the roads. If possible, plan your trips to avoid the pre-Iftar rush.

Taxis May Be Unavailable at Sunset

A lot of taxi drivers break their fast at Iftar, so finding a cab around that time can be tricky. If you need a ride, consider booking in advance.

Iftar Cannons and Traditions

A long-standing Ramadan tradition in Abu Dhabi is the firing of cannons at sunset to mark the end of the fast. A great place to witness this is near the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. If you’re invited to an Iftar, it’s polite to accept and join in the communal spirit of the occasion.

By following these simple guidelines, you’ll not only respect local customs but also experience the warm hospitality that makes Ramadan in Abu Dhabi unique.