Ramadan is essential for people who follow Islam. The United Arab Emirates also celebrates the holy month with great joy and dedication. If you’re a traveller, visiting the UAE in March, then there are some important things which you should know. Moreover, abiding by the rules is also crucial both culturally and legally in this country.
At the end of this blog, you will have a brief idea about how to conduct yourself while you are in the UAE. Additionally, there are numerous places to visit in Dubai during Ramadan but first, let’s discuss what exactly is Ramadan and then dive into the essential tips.
What Is Ramadan?
It’s that special time of the year, the Holy Month of Ramadan, brings joy and blessing to people who believe in the power above the sky. Furthermore, it is celebrated to praise the ninth month when the Qu’ran was first disclosed to Prophet Muhammad.
Throughout these days, people remember the Holy Month with fasting, prayer, and spending time together while performing various activities dedicated to the communities. In this blog, we will discuss about essential tips that you must note down before visiting the UAE while its this festive time. We will also discuss some places you must visit during this time. So, without further ado, let’s begin.
Here Are 15 Essential Tips to Remember
Mentioned down below is everything that you need to keep in mind while visiting UAE during Ramadan period. Read this writeup till the end to know more.
1. Avoid Drinking and Smoking in Public
It’s important that you realise smoking or drinking in public is strictly prohibited in public. Furthermore, one must show respect towards those who are fasting during the day and must refrain from eating in public as well. However, Non Muslims can find designated areas including restaurants and food courts that are open during the fasting duration.
2. Follow the local Laws
Before you begin your trip, it is crucial and must to learn about the local laws of UAE to avoid any mishap later on. Furthermore, some countries have particular rules and regulations regarding public behaviour and the adherence to religious norms. Hence, its better that you know about it beforehand.
3. Dress Appropriately
While you may want to be in your best state and would want to wear whatever you like, one must always consider cultural sensitivity expected during Ramadan. Therefore, everyone is advised to cover their shoulders and avoid wearing any revelling or tight clothes.
4. Follow the Rhythm of Festival
As everyone knows, fasting is a mandate for all Muslims the moment they reach puberty. As per to that, you can see majority of Muslim cities operate on a slow level and have a lazy schedule. Public and private offices may even shut or can be seen open for a few hours. However, it varies by one destination to other. Therefore, it is vital to check in advance when planning to visit UAE during Ramadan.
5. Mind Your Manners at the Table
There’s a high possibility that you will be invited to join in if-tar, a lavish evening meal organised to break the fast. Therefore, you must embrace the opportunity and attend these communal meals. Moreover, it shows generosity if you bring a gift, but make sure if there’s a food item, it’s halal. Note, don’t start eating right away the moment food’s on table. You need to wait until the prayers are completed and the host invites you to eat.
6. Keep the Clock in Mind
The city of gold has plenty of activities to offer and places one can visit. However, during this time of the year demands one to plan its itinerary as per Ramadan rituals. Fasting can be tiring for one and one must the day outs according the same.
7. Avoid PDA’s
If you are visiting UAE with your better half, you will surely feel like holding their hands while going on a city tour. That may be okay in your hometown but most Muslim countries expect one to behave opposite of it. Hence, remember to not it down because it’s better to be a wise owl rather than someone who left its brain on the other side of the caution.
8. Don’t Make Noise
When you are out or walking by the beautiful lanes of UAE during Ramadan, be mindful of talking in loud pitch during the prayer times. Muslims pray five times a day and you need to maintain your tonal volume as per that. Moreover, if you are watching something on your phone, make sure to put your earphones on to avoid noise in public spaces.
9. Watch Your Language
You are in a foreign land and would not want to end up in a trouble. Unlike your hometown where everyone might greet one another saying “Happy Ramadan”, it may draw a smile or a comment over here in UAE if you follow the same. You need to know that it’s not Christmas and you greeting other individuals during Ramadan in UAE like this may have consequences as the dynamics of a festival change from one nation to another.
10. Be Kind and Generous
Ramadan is celebrated to show respect, love, positivity, and faithfulness towards people. Hence, it is a time when everyone comes along and reflects a sense of generosity and community support. During this period, many people take part in acts of charity which imply assistance to needy ones. As a visitor or a traveler, you must consider participating in local services and support charities and help those who are unable to back themselves.
11. Take Part in Cultural Celebrations
UAE is full of cultural events and activities. During Ramadan, UAE offers a wide variety of cultural events and activities that celebrate the spirit and enthusiasm of the month. Furthermore, one can indulge in exhibitions or traditional performances to know about the local culture. In addition, many malls host Ramadan themed events that includes entertaining shows or presentations and markets.
12. Join Iftar Gatherings
Iftar is a meal to break the fast at the time when the sun slowly goes down and fades. Furthermore, it is a community oriented event filled with warmth. Many restaurants, hotels, and community centres organise special iftar buffets and allow individuals to take part in the same. It is a great way to experience the local cuisine and learn more about the culture.
13. Explore Cultural Tourist Attractions
Dubai is rich in cultural heritage and showcases some of the iconic landmarks such as Dubai Museum, Al Fahidi District, Jumeirah Mosque in perfect ways as one can have a peek into traditions and history of Emiratis. Visiting these places during Ramadan can be quiet peaceful as it stays less crowded at that time.
14. Greet Local People
Wherever you go or visit, you will meet new people in the UAE at this time, most of them would be in a state of spirituality and respect that they show towards the Ramadan festive. Hence, it’s vital to greet local people in the same way they treat others to maintain a balance of respect.
15. Shop from Night Markets
One of the highlights of visiting the UAE during Ramadan is the vibrant atmosphere at night Markets, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions. These bustling markets offer a unique shopping experience, with a wide range of traditional clothing, souvenirs, and handicrafts on offer. You can also indulge in delicious local cuisine, from sweet treats to savoury dishes, and enjoy the lively street food scene.
Closure
To sum up. these were the top 15 essential tips that you should certainly remember while visiting the UAE during Ramadan. Most importantly, book your trip with a reputable travel agency in Dubai. The bustling streets, the sky full of fireworks, the hospitality of the Emiratis are just few reasons why you should come to UAE in March. Happy travelling!
