Can non-Muslims eat in public during Ramadan?

No. Eating, drinking or smoking in public is banned for everyone between dawn and sunset, with fines starting at AED 500.

What are typical Ramadan working hours?

Private-sector staff usually work six hours, often 9 am to 3 pm. Confirm exact timings with your employer.

Are there special iftar deals for expats?

Yes. Most hotels run buffets from AED 99-250; book early as popular slots fill quickly after the first week.

Do pharmacies stay open during Ramadan?

Yes, but many reduce staff between 10 am and 4 pm. Collect prescriptions in advance if possible.

Ramadan in UAE 2026: Rules, Etiquette, Working Hours

When is Ramadan 2026?

Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin around 18 February and end around 19 March, subject to moon-sighting confirmation by the UAE Moon-Sighting Committee. The dates shift ten days earlier each year, so mark your calendar once the official announcement is released.

Working hours during Ramadan

Under MOHRE rules, the maximum working day for most private-sector employees drops to six hours. Many companies start at 9 am and finish by 3 pm. Government offices follow the same limit and some close earlier on Fridays. Confirm your exact schedule with HR at least two weeks before Ramadan begins.

Eating, drinking and smoking in public

During daylight hours it is illegal for anyone, Muslim or non-Muslim, to eat, drink or smoke in public spaces, including beaches, malls and offices with open-plan areas. The fine starts at AED 500 and can reach AED 2,000 for repeat offences. Plan meals at home, in hotel restaurants with screened sections, or inside your car with windows up.

Non-Muslim exemptions and etiquette

Non-Muslims are not required to fast, yet the same public-conduct rules apply. In practice, many offices provide a designated staff room where non-fasters can eat discreetly. Always close doors, keep noise low and avoid strong food smells in shared spaces. These small courtesies keep the workplace harmonious.

Iftar deals and where to break your fast

Hotels and restaurants across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah launch special iftar buffets from AED 99 to AED 250 per person. Advance bookings are essential after 10 pm during the first ten days. Popular chains also offer takeaway family packs that include dates, soup and main dishes for AED 120-180, perfect for households that prefer to eat at home.

Shopping and entertainment changes

Malls remain open until 1 am, but entertainment venues such as cinemas and live-music spots adjust timings or close for part of the night. Supermarkets shorten hours slightly and remove sampling stations. Delivery apps continue normal service; however, drivers may take longer between 12 pm and 6 pm because traffic patterns shift.

Healthcare and medication

Public hospitals and DHA clinics operate on reduced staffing between 10 am and 4 pm. Pharmacies stay open, yet it is wise to collect repeat prescriptions before Ramadan starts. If you require regular daytime medication, speak with your doctor about safe timing adjustments.

Travel and transport

RTA reduces some bus frequencies during peak heat hours. Taxis and metro run on normal schedules. If you are driving, expect heavier traffic just after sunset as people head out for iftar. Allow an extra 15-20 minutes for journeys between 6 pm and 8 pm.

Practical checklist for expats

Update your work calendar with the new hours two weeks ahead.
Stock non-perishable snacks and water in your desk drawer for after-sunset use.
Book iftar tables early if you plan to dine out.
Carry a reusable water bottle and plan hydration breaks once the sun sets.
Respect colleagues who are fasting; avoid scheduling lunch meetings.

Ask Tovi for more

Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything — visas, banking, housing, schools. Ask Tovi free →

Got more UAE questions?