Ramadan 2025 is just around the corner, and Muslims across the UAE have already started to prepare for a month of devotion and self-reflection. On January 31st, the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments (Awqaf) announced that the crescent moon indicating the start of Shaaban, the Hijri month before Ramadan, was spotted. This means that Ramadan is likely to begin on March 1st. However, the exact start date will depend on the sighting of the moon. As daily routines shift, school and work schedules adjust, and the pace of life slows down, here are all the key details you need to know about celebrating Ramadan in Dubai and the UAE.
What Do Muslims Do During Ramadan?
During Ramadan, devoted Muslims around the world will fast from dawn to dusk, refraining from eating and drinking. Special nightly prayers called Taraweeh will be performed at mosques across the country. In the last ten days of the month, special Qiyam ul layl prayers will last through the night. This time around, fasting during the day will be a much more pleasant experience for those in the UAE as temperatures in March range between 21°C and 28°C, with an average of 24°C!
2025 Fasting Hours
The fasting hours in 2025 are shorter compared to 2024. Here are the fasting hours throughout the Holy Month:
- First day: 12 hours and 58 minutes
- Mid-month (March 11): 13 hours and 13 minutes (Fajr at 5:16 AM, Maghrib at 6:29 PM)
- Last day: 13 hours and 41 minutes
Last year, they ranged from 13 hours and 16 minutes to nearly 14 hours.
Will There Be Changes To Salik Prices During Ramadan?
The Short answer is yes. The long answer is – drivers in Dubai will see dynamic Salik toll rates in place throughout Ramadan:
- Peak hours (9 AM – 5 PM, weekdays): AED 6 per crossing
- Off-peak (7 AM – 9 AM, 5 PM – 2 AM, weekdays): AED 4 per crossing
- Free hours: 2 AM – 7 AM (Monday to Saturday)
- Sundays (except public holidays & major events): AED 4 all day (7 AM – 2 AM), free from 2 AM – 7 AM
Paid parking timings will also be adjusted. The Variable Parking Tariff Policy, expected to roll out by late March 2025, will impact parking fees:
- Premium parking: AED 6 per hour during peak hours
- Regular parking: AED 4 per hour during peak hours
- Free parking: 10 PM – 8 AM & all day on Sundays
Changes In School & Work Timings
During Ramadan, school and work hours are reduced to accommodate fasting and prayer schedules:
- Schools typically shorten their hours by two hours.
- Both government and private sector offices operate on adjusted timings.
This year, Ramadan arrives shortly after mid-term breaks for many schools. It also coincides with term-end exams for international curriculum schools and final exams for Indian curriculum schools in February and March. Some institutions have rescheduled exams, while others have opted to cancel them.
Also read: Less Than 50 Days To Ramadan – Start Planning Your Eid Al Fitr Getaways To These Top 8 Spots
When Can We Expect Eid Al Fitr Holidays?
Depending on the official moon sighting, Eid Al Fitr is expected to fall on March 30, March 31, or April 1. If Eid is on April 1, UAE residents could enjoy up to six days off, including the weekend! Official Eid holidays typically run from Ramadan 30 to Shawwal 3. Stay tuned to Gulf Buzz, as we’ll be the first ones to update you as soon as official Eid Al Fitr public holiday dates are out!
Ramadan Traditions & Community Events Across Dubai
The UAE comes alive during Ramadan with special events, traditions, and community gatherings:
- Ramadan Cannons: Firing daily at sunset to signal Iftar.
- Iftar & Suhoor Tents: Offering a communal dining experience for both residents and visitors.
- Ramadan Souqs: Traditional markets filled with food, crafts, and cultural activities.
One of the most cherished Emirati traditions before Ramadan is Hag El Laila, celebrated on Shaaban 15. On this special night, children go door-to-door collecting sweets, nuts, toys, and gifts, spreading joy ahead of the holy month
Whether you’re fasting or simply experiencing Ramadan for the first time in the UAE, the Holy Month is a time of reflection, generosity, and unity for everyone!
You may also like: Dubai’s First Ramadan Market Of The Season Is Now Open – Souq Ramadan 2025
