Ramadan in UAE: Essential rules, etiquette, and legal guidelines every expat should know

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During Ramadan in the UAE, expats must avoid eating, smoking, and wear modest clothing in public/Representative Image

During the holy month of Ramadan, daily life in the UAE undergoes a noticeable shift. This period is marked by fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims — but also brings important cultural and legal expectations for non-Muslim residents and tourists.

Whether you’re living in the Emirates or visiting during Ramadan, knowing how to respectfully navigate public behavior, work routines, and social interactions is essential. Here’s a complete guide to what’s expected.

Public behavior and legal restrictions during fasting hours

From sunrise to sunset, it is not permitted to eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in any public area — including streets, cars, malls, cinemas, and workplaces.
This applies to everyone, including non-Muslims, and includes even when you are inside a vehicle.
Federal Law No. 3 of 1987, amended in 2006, clearly addresses this under Article 313:

Anyone caught eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours may face up to one month in jail or be fined AED 2,000.

Eating or drinking is only allowed in private spaces, such as your home, hotel room, or private office cabin.
The law and social norms are aligned in promoting respect for the fasting public, so even non-Muslims are expected to comply fully during daylight hours.

Dress, music, and public decorum during ramadan

Clothing should be modest and non-revealing throughout the month, especially in public places like restaurants, malls, and events.
Wearing tight or revealing outfits is strongly discouraged, even when attending dinners or nightlife venues.
Playing loud music — whether in your car, at home, or on the beach — should be avoided.

Listening to music privately is allowed, but make sure it cannot be heard outside.
On the beach or in shared spaces, use headphones to avoid disturbing others.

These practices reflect the general expectation of modesty and quiet reflection during Ramadan.

Navigating work, traffic, and meal timings during ramadan

Working hours across the UAE are shortened during Ramadan, with many offices closing earlier than usual.

This also impacts traffic patterns, with peak congestion often occurring:

In the morning (7:00 AM to 9:00 AM)
In the afternoon (1:00 PM to 3:00 PM)

Roads become especially busy before Iftar (sunset), as people hurry home to break their fast.

Avoid driving close to sunset if possible, as roads can be chaotic and hazardous at that time.

Restaurants tend to be very crowded after sunset, when families and groups gather for Iftar.

Make reservations in advance to secure a spot for dinner during this time.

Community engagement, charity, and social conduct

It is appropriate and appreciated to greet people with phrases like “Ramadan Kareem” or “Ramadan Mubarak” during the month.
Charity is a central value of Ramadan. Residents and visitors are encouraged to:

Contribute to humanitarian programs
Support local and international charities
Make small gestures of kindness toward the less fortunate

The month is also a time to engage in community and cultural exchanges.

Whether Muslim or non-Muslim, everyone is encouraged to reflect on values such as tolerance, compassion, and gratitude.
Interacting respectfully with neighbors, friends, and colleagues is part of embracing the spirit of the month.

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