Ramadan 2026 officially begins on Wednesday, February 18 in the UAE, following the Moon Sighting Committee's confirmation. Dubai has unveiled its most comprehensive Ramadan program ever — the "Season of Wulfa" — featuring daily fireworks, nightly drone shows, 18 major events, and citywide iftar experiences running until Eid Al Fitr on March 20.
Whether you're a resident observing the Holy Month or a visitor exploring Dubai's unique Ramadan culture, this guide covers everything from event schedules to property investment opportunities for those considering permanent relocation via Golden Visa.
Dubai Ramadan 2026 Highlights
Daily fireworks at Al Seef & Global Village, nightly drone shows at Festival City (10:30pm), 18 major events, 30 nights of celebrations. School hours reduced to 5 hours max.
Ramadan 2026 Key Dates
- First Day of Ramadan: Wednesday, February 18, 2026
- Last Day of Ramadan: Wednesday, March 19, 2026 (expected)
- Eid Al Fitr: Thursday, March 20, 2026 (expected, pending moon sighting)
- Ramadan Duration: 30 days
- Fasting Hours: Approximately 12-13 hours daily
Daily Fireworks & Drone Shows
Dubai lights up every night of Ramadan with spectacular displays:
Al Seef Fireworks
Daily fireworks along Dubai Creek from February 19 to March 19. Best viewing from Al Seef waterfront promenade. Post-iftar timing.
Global Village
Weekend fireworks choreographed to music. Synchronised shows with cultural themes. February 18 - March 18.
Festival City Drone Show
Nightly at 10:30pm. Hundreds of drones form crescents, lanterns, and Ramadan motifs over Festival Bay waterfront.
Mosque Projections
Vibrant projections on mosque façades and landmark buildings throughout the month.
18 Major Ramadan Events
Dubai's "Season of Wulfa" features events across the city:
Must-Visit Events & Experiences
- Expo City Dubai Ramadan Program: February 22 - March 17. Cultural activities, storytelling, community gatherings, family entertainment.
- Global Village Ramadan Season: February 18 - March 18. Extended hours, cultural entertainment, dining, retail. Evening atmosphere.
- Ramadan Street Food Festival: Sheikh Hamdan Colony, February 16 - March 15. Food vendors for iftar, family activities, live entertainment.
- SAMRA "Under The Same Moon": Immersive experience at Dubai Mall, Festival City, Mall of Emirates. February 16 - March 18.
- Downtown Dubai Ramadan Nights: Evening ambience with special lighting and cultural programming. February 16 - March 22.
- La Mer Ramadan Market: Beachside iftar stalls, artisan crafts, evening entertainment throughout the month.
- City Walk Cultural Evenings: Live music, art installations, family activities post-iftar.
- Dubai Creek Harbour Suhoor: Late-night dining with Burj Khalifa views until dawn.
Working Hours & School Timings
Reduced hours during Ramadan across Dubai:
- Government Offices: 9am - 2:30pm (Monday-Thursday), 9am - 12pm (Friday)
- Private Sector: Reduced by 2 hours — typically 9am - 3pm or flexible arrangements
- Schools: Maximum 5 hours per day. End by 11:30am on Fridays. PE excused for fasting students.
- Retail Malls: Open 10am - 12am or later. Extended hours post-iftar.
- Restaurants: Dine-in typically opens at sunset (iftar). Takeaway available all day.
Dubai Metro & Transport Changes
RTA adjusts services during Ramadan:
- Metro Operating Hours: Extended evening service, modified Friday timings
- Salik (Road Tolls): Free during iftar window (approximately 30 minutes around sunset)
- Paid Parking: Modified timings — typically 8am to sunset free, charges resume post-iftar
- RTA Buses: Adjusted schedules aligned with prayer times
- Taxis: Normal 24/7 availability. Higher demand at iftar time — book in advance.
Best Iftar Experiences in Dubai
Where to break your fast in Dubai:
Luxury Hotel Iftars
Burj Al Arab, Atlantis, Four Seasons. AED 300-600 per person. Lavish buffets with live cooking stations.
Traditional Majlis
Al Fahidi Historical District, Sheikh Mohammed Centre. Authentic Emirati dishes. Cultural immersion.
Rooftop Iftar
Downtown Dubai views of Burj Khalifa. Address Sky View, Armani Hotel. Reserve early.
Beach Iftar
La Mer, JBR The Walk. Sunset views, casual dining, family-friendly atmosphere.
Visitor Etiquette During Ramadan
Tips for non-Muslim visitors during the Holy Month:
- Eating & Drinking: Do not eat, drink, or smoke in public during fasting hours. Many cafes have screened areas for non-fasting guests.
- Dress Code: Dress modestly — cover shoulders and knees, especially near mosques and traditional areas.
- Music & Entertainment: Loud music restricted in public. Clubs typically closed. Live entertainment resumes post-iftar.
- Greetings: "Ramadan Kareem" (generous Ramadan) or "Ramadan Mubarak" (blessed Ramadan) are appropriate.
- Best Time to Visit: Evening hours (7pm onwards) are most vibrant. Experience the festive post-iftar atmosphere.
"Ramadan in Dubai offers visitors a unique window into Emirati culture and Islamic traditions while maintaining the city's signature hospitality. The Season of Wulfa represents our most ambitious Ramadan program ever — 30 nights of fireworks, drone shows, cultural events, and community gatherings that bring residents and visitors together. We welcome all to experience this special time in our city."
— Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), February 2026Ramadan Real Estate Opportunity
Ramadan is traditionally a quieter period for property transactions, offering opportunities for buyers:
- Seller Motivation: Some sellers more flexible on pricing during Ramadan
- Less Competition: Fewer buyers actively viewing — better access to properties
- Golden Visa Planning: Use Ramadan to research Golden Visa eligibility and property requirements
- Post-Ramadan Surge: Market typically accelerates after Eid — buy before the rush
Analyze returns with our Dubai Real Estate ROI Calculator.
Business Setup During Ramadan
Planning to start a business in Dubai? Key considerations:
- Government Processing: Slightly slower due to reduced hours — plan accordingly
- Free Zone Services: Most Free Zones maintain normal services with adjusted hours
- Banking: Banks open 9am-1pm typically. Online services unaffected.
- Meetings: Best scheduled 10am-12pm or post-iftar (8pm onwards)
Plan Your Dubai Move During Ramadan
Check Golden Visa eligibility for 10-year residency. Compare Free Zone options for your business. Explore property investment opportunities.
