Planning a Family Trip to Dubai and Abu Dhabi during Ramadan
Ramadan is a holy month which holds great significance for Muslims all over the world and even in Dubai. This whole month of fasting ends with the celebration of Eid-Al-Fitr. There are no exact dates tough for the Ramadan as it changes according to the dates in Islamic lunar calendar. If you are planning a family trip to Dubai during Ramadan, you should be aware of the basic rules and behavior. As you will need to take care of them during this time.
Visiting Dubai and Abu Dhabi during this time of the year can be best time to experience the Islamic traditions. But there are several different things to consider when going to a Muslim country. Especially during the festival season, knowing the local culture will make sure that you maintain respect.
What to Expect in Dubai during Ramadan?
Ramadan in Dubai might make the city seem slower than normal since work schedules often adjust to match the hours of fasting. Given the heat in Dubai during this time of year, fasting is quite difficult. If you are travelling to Dubai for business and will be working during Ramadan, be advised that there will likely be shorter workdays and midday breaks. However Family Trip to Dubai during Ramadan is going to be the fantastic. Time spent along with family, knowing and exploring the culture will give you a lots of wonderful memories.
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Though it is going to be little quieter on the streets but make the most of those less busy times and explore more of the city. As the sun sets and the festivities start, Dubai is a fantastic place to be at. Apart from the fasting and festivities, Dubai Abu Dhabi travel during Ramadan is an ideal time to explore. You can also learn more about the vibrant culture of the city. Sometimes we forget about the rich history due to its scintillating skyscrapers and unique attractions in Dubai.
Ramadan travel dos and don’ts in UAE
Do’s
Attend Traditional Iftar
After the last prayer, which ends the daily fast, a lavish meal known as Iftar is served. Restaurants all throughout the city often offer fantastic meal deals during the Iftar celebration. Except amazing buffets including delicacies from all around the world. It is really rather normal to invite to non-Muslims for Iftar. If given, you should absolutely take advantage of this opportunity since it is a fantastic way to totally immerse yourself in Emirati culture. Overall travel during Ramadan is a mind-blowing decision. That being said, remember that it is polite to give priority to those who fast, when eating.
Also see, 10 Things to Do in Dubai With Kids – Family Fun in Dubai
Enjoy Eid ul-Fitr
More than anything else, this probably has to do with the time of your travel. However, you might be able to spend a few days in Dubai enjoying the amazing celebrations of Eid ul-Fitr. Hence, book your holidays around the beginning of May this year. This is a three days national holiday in Dubai with lots of family time, food and gift giving to mark the festival. So, if it is Family Trip to Dubai during Ramadan, you may also indulge in the local custom and give gifts to each other. Moreover, there’s also an enormous fireworks show in typical Dubai style.
During Eid ul-Fetir, the stores and malls also provide some really nice discounts as an extra bonus to the celebrations. That means you also have a great chance to shop at great discount. Shopping must be there on your Dubai Abu Dhabi itinerary Ramadan special.
Watch the Cannon Fire during Night
The Maghrib prayer is performed across Dubai to mark the end of the fast for the day and to begin indulging in Iftar buffets. On the other hand, cannon firing is done in Dubai during Maghrib.
Also see, 15 Amazing Things to Do in Dubai for Free
To mark the sunset, five cannons are fired around the city according to a local tradition that dates back to 1960s. You can get to Dubai city walk, Burj Park, Eid prayer grounds in Al Baraha or Al Mankhool or Madinat Jumeirah to watch the firing from front seat. Family vacation during Ramadan is surely going to an unforgettable time that will last with you forever.
Don’t
Drink or Eat in Public
It should probably go without saying, that eating and drinking in public is impolite. As most of the residents in city fast during the day. During Ramadan, it is also considered improper to smoke in public. But that doesn’t mean you should also do fast. All you really need to do is drink and eat in a private setting. You will find special areas in restaurants for dining. You can also indulge in family friendly Ramadan activities in UAE and Dubai for more fun.
Also see, Dubai Fountain Show: A Charismatic Light, Sound & Water Show
Being Disrespectful
For Muslims, Ramadan is a very sacred time of year, therefore it is best to dress a little more modestly than normal. There is no special dress code in UAE or Dubai but it is best to cover from shoulder to knee during this time. Even public displays of affection are also strictly prohibited. Clothing related laws are little stricter during this time. The ideal coverage is from the shoulder to the knee. Unless you’re in a resort or on a beach where it’s appropriate to wear swimwear.
Going on Roads
Hot, long days without water or food and the excitement of going home for Iftar celebrations means there may be some irregular traffic on the road. Hence it is best to avoid going from one place to another around sunrise and especially during sunset. In addition to the unsafe driving, there is a lot of traffic, which makes moving around difficult. Ramadan travel experience is going to give you a completely different view of Dubai.
Make Plans
Now you know everything about what all you can do and what you should avoid when you go for a family trip to UAE. For Muslims, Ramadan is a season of celebration and holiness, though it is not time that visitors should absolutely avoid.
This is the time of year when everyone is celebrating, markets are dazzled with festive lights, and people enjoy fireworks. Also lot of people shop at malls and feast around the city. There are some amazing events, live entertainments and sale to enjoy during your family trip to Dubai during Ramadan. Dubai is both lively and crowded.
Dubai Visa Guide
Remember you will need Dubai visa from London to be able to go to Dubai and explore its attractions. Once you have made up your mind to visit Dubai get all your documents like passport, UK residence permit and colored photo ready. Apply for online Dubai visa as you will need one as I already mentioned.
Dubai is a city that has something for everyone, from shopping malls to stunning skyscrapers, desert adventures and serene beaches. With a valid visa, you can explore diverse attractions and culture of this dazzling city and have an unforgettable holiday.
There are many alternatives to suit your interests, whether you wish to see the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest structure, or take a dhow boat dinner on the Dubai Creek. In addition, you may also enjoy the breathtaking views of the Dubai Fountain. The exhilaration of fly-boarding and the wonders of the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. Visitors to Dubai are always in awe of and delighted by this metropolis. So, fill your Dubai visa application form today and escape to this wonderful destination.
