[ad_1]
The Holy month of Ramadan in the UAE is expected to begin on Wednesday evening, March 22, and run until Friday, 21 April.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and it’s regarded as the holiest month of the year. During this month, capable Muslims are required to abstain from eating and drinking from dawn to dusk as fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam.
Ramadan begins at the first sighting of the new crescent moon and the duration is between 29 and 30 days depending on the sighting of the next crescent. In the UAE, we wait for an official announcement from the moon-sighting committee in Makkah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as Makkah which is considered the holiest city in the Islamic world.
During the Holy Month, working hours decrease by two hours in most workplaces, restaurant operating hours change along with paid parking hours, and social etiquette adjusts. Here’s everything you need to know
The Ramadan etiquette for non-Muslims
Non-Muslims do not have to fast during Ramadan. However, they are prohibited from eating, drinking, and smoking in public during fasting hours. This includes chewing gum. The general public should also take note of the following rules regarding inappropriate behaviour:
- don’t engage in any aggressive behaviour
- don’t dance or play music in public although you may listen to music quietly with headphones
- don’t wear inappropriate clothing in public
- don’t swear as blasphemy is considered extra offensive during Ramadan
- don’t refuse a gift, or an invitation to join someone at Iftar.
Information via UAE GOV
What else changes during Ramadan
Working hours
Working hours are reduced by two hours during Ramadan. Even non-Muslims are entitled to reduced working hours during Ramadan without a pay cut.
Opening hours of restaurants
Most restaurants adhere to the hours of fasting. They are closed during the day and open after the evening prayers. Some restaurants and cafes are open during the day and people are free to order food for delivery or take away or to dine in within enclosures. Booking a table for dinner is recommended during Ramadan. Restaurants are particularly busy during the evenings.
Opening hours of grocery shops and malls
Supermarkets and grocery shops are open as usual. Malls stay open until late night.
Parking timings
Hours of paid parking change during Ramadan. Information about the parking timings, fees and modes of payment are indicated on the parking metres by the parking areas. Government transport entities in each emirate can be contacted for more information about the changes in timing and fees during Ramadan.
Fasting and driving behaviour
It is common for fasting Muslims to not get enough sleep during Ramadan. This could lead to sleepiness and impair driving performance. It is advised to get adequate sleep, exercise regularly and eat meals at a fixed time. As a precaution, start your journey early to avoid last minute speeding.
Availability of taxis
You might find it difficult to find a taxi during evenings as a lot of drivers are breaking their fast. It is better to book a taxi in advance.
Information via UAE GOV
Watch The Lovin Dubai Show: 2 More Major Earthquakes Hit Turkey & Syria: UAE Aid Continues
[ad_2]
Source link