Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on Wednesday, 18 February, in the UAE, depending on the official moon sighting by the UAE Moon-Sighting Committee. The start date could shift by a day, based on the visibility of the crescent moon.
Authorities will confirm the exact date in early February 2026. Updates will follow from the UAE Fatwa Council, Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD), and the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA).
Worship and mosque access
During Ramadan, mosques across the UAE prepare for increased attendance for Tarawih and Tahajjud prayers.
In Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque will set up separate entry lanes for men and women and display multilingual digital signboards to manage crowds more efficiently. Additional prayer areas will open from the 21st night of Ramadan onward.
In Dubai, IACAD is planning the launch of 55 new mosques. The authority will also expand its live English translation of Friday sermons, which will now reach around 70% of prayer halls.
Rules for photography in mosques
Photography, video recording, or livestreaming inside mosques remains strictly restricted unless special permission is granted by mosque authorities. These rules aim to respect the sanctity of the prayer space and protect worshippers’ privacy.
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Public etiquette and legal reminders
Although eating and drinking in public during the day is not illegal for non-Muslims, it is considered impolite during Ramadan. Most restaurants and cafés operate takeaway-only services during daylight hours or install modesty screens.
Iftar distribution permits
In Dubai, anyone who plans to distribute iftar meals or set up Ramadan tents must first obtain a free permit online. Unlicensed charitable distribution can result in fines up to Dhs 500,000, according to current Dubai regulations.
Shopping, dining, and transport hours
As in previous years, shopping malls, restaurants, and public transport services are expected to adjust their schedules during Ramadan:
Malls, including Dubai Mall, may operate extended hours, typically from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m., with a break in the afternoon.
Restaurants will offer iftar buffets shortly before sunset (Maghrib) and remain open for suhoor until 2 a.m. on most days.
Iftar cannons will be fired at popular spots such as Burj Park and Expo City Dubai to mark the end of the daily fast.
RTA services such as the Dubai Metro, buses, and trams are expected to follow slightly modified schedules to accommodate late-night prayers. Final timings will be announced closer to Ramadan.
Last ten nights of Ramadan
The final 10 nights of Ramadan are considered especially sacred. Worshippers gather for Qiyam-al-Layl (late-night prayers), and attendance at mosques increases significantly.
Hotels across Dubai and Abu Dhabi often increase suhoor capacity.
Major malls may stay open 24 hours, closing briefly after Fajr for cleaning and restocking.
Authorities may implement special parking regulations around mosques — drivers are advised to follow local police advisories.
The UAE government and religious authorities are expected to release full Ramadan 2026 guidelines in early February. These will confirm:
Start and end dates of Ramadan
Mosque operations and prayer timings
Public etiquette enforcement
Transport and commercial changes
This article will be updated as soon as the official circulars are issued.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
