Ramadan in Abu Dhabi 2025 – A Complete Guide

 Ramadan is the holiest month in Islam, where Muslims engage in fasting, prayer, and self-reflection. In Abu Dhabi and across the UAE, the entire society transforms, and even non-Muslims are expected to be mindful of local customs and traditions.

In this guide, we will cover the dates of Ramadan 2025, key traditions, how fasting times are determined, differences between Muslims and non-Muslims during Ramadan, and the dos and don’ts for expats in the UAE.

 1. What is Ramadan?

Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic lunar calendar, marking the period when the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.

During this time, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, refraining from eating, drinking, smoking, and other physical indulgences.

 Key Aspects of Ramadan:

 Fasting (Sawm) starts before sunrise (Fajr prayer) and ends at sunset (Maghrib prayer)

 The first meal after sunset is called Iftar, and the pre-dawn meal is called Suhoor

 Night prayers, including Taraweeh, are performed at mosques

 Charity and donations (Zakat & Sadaqah) are encouraged

 2. Ramadan 2025 Dates in the UAE

 Start of Ramadan 2025: Evening of February 28 (Friday) or March 1 (Saturday)

 End of Ramadan 2025: March 29 (Saturday) or March 30 (Sunday)

 Eid al-Fitr (Celebration after Ramadan): March 30 – April 1 (Public holiday)

 Note: Ramadan dates are based on moon sightings, so the exact dates may vary.

 3. What Changes During Ramadan in the UAE?

When Ramadan begins, the atmosphere across Abu Dhabi and the UAE shifts significantly.

 1) Fasting (Sawm) from Sunrise to Sunset

Muslims do not eat, drink, or smoke during daylight hours.

Iftar (breaking the fast) occurs immediately after sunset.

A pre-dawn meal, called Suhoor, is eaten before fasting begins.

 2) Increased Prayer & Religious Observance

Additional nightly prayers, called Taraweeh, are performed at mosques.

The Quran is read more frequently, and spiritual reflection is encouraged.

 3) Charity and Giving Back (Zakat, Sadaqah)

Muslims are encouraged to donate to the less fortunate.

Many restaurants and businesses offer free Iftar meals to those in need.

 4) Changes in Work & Daily Life

Government offices, companies, and schools operate on shorter hours (usually 2–3 hours less than normal).

Many restaurants remain closed during the day and open only after Iftar (sunset meal).

The city is quieter during the day, but becomes lively at night.

 4. How Are Fasting Times Determined?

Fasting during Ramadan is based on the movement of the sun. Muslims begin fasting before sunrise (Fajr prayer) and break their fast after sunset (Maghrib prayer).

 Estimated Fasting Times in Abu Dhabi (2025):

 March 1: Sunrise: 06:35 AM / Sunset: 06:20 PM

 March 29: Sunrise: 06:05 AM / Sunset: 06:35 PM

 How to Check the Exact Fasting Time:

Search "UAE Prayer Time 2025" for accurate daily timings.

Listen for the Adhan (call to prayer) from mosques, which signals Iftar time.

 5. How Do Muslims and Non-Muslims Experience Ramadan Differently?

Ramadan affects both Muslims and non-Muslims in the UAE, but in different ways.

 Muslims During Ramadan:

 Must fast from dawn to sunset (no food, water, or smoking)

 Experience spiritual reflection and self-discipline

 Gather with family and friends for Iftar (sunset meal)

 Non-Muslims (Expats) During Ramadan:

 Cannot eat, drink, or smoke in public during fasting hours

 Some restaurants remain open for non-Muslims, but mostly in designated areas

 The daytime is quieter, but the city becomes active and festive at night

 6. What You Can and Cannot Do During Ramadan in the UAE

 Things You Should NOT Do:

Eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours 

Playing loud music or causing public disturbances 

Public displays of affection (PDA) 

Making jokes about fasting or being disrespectful towards Ramadan 

 Things You CAN Do:

Eat and drink indoors or in designated areas

Respect and greet Muslim colleagues & friends with "Ramadan Mubarak"

Participate in Iftar meals and experience local traditions

Enjoy the vibrant Ramadan nightlife after sunset

 Conclusion: Respecting and Embracing Ramadan in Abu Dhabi

Experiencing Ramadan in Abu Dhabi is a unique cultural opportunity.

Whether you're Muslim or non-Muslim, understanding and respecting local traditions can make this period more meaningful and enjoyable.

 Have you experienced Ramadan in the UAE? Share your thoughts in the comments below!