Everything you need to know about Ramadan in Dubai

Oracle
1 March 2025
2.28 pm

The Ramadan 2025 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is scheduled to begin on 1 March 2025, subject to official confirmation from the religious authorities. This holy month brings about a number of changes to the daily lives of residents and visitors. Here is an overview of the main changes to expect:

Reduction in working hours

During Ramadan, working hours are generally reduced for all employees, whether or not they are fasting. The UAE authorities will officially announce the specific timetables for the private and public sectors as the holy month approaches.

Adjustments to school timetables

Schools will introduce shorter school days, with around five hours of lessons, to allow pupils to adjust to the rhythm of Ramadan. In 2025, the spring half-term could fall in the fourth week of March, meaning there would be around three weeks of school with reduced timetables during the holy month.

Nightlife and shop opening hours

After breaking the fast (Iftar), daily life springs to life. Shopping centres, restaurants and cafés will adjust their opening hours and will often stay open late into the night, sometimes past midnight. Some restaurants will change their opening hours, whilst others will only offer takeaway meals during the day.

Changes to transport services and parking

Public transport : Metro and bus timetables will be adjusted to meet the needs of residents travelling after Iftar. The transport authorities in Dubai and Abu Dhabi will announce the exact timetables as Ramadan approaches. lepetitjournal.com
Parking : Last year, paid parking was in force from 8 am to 6 pm, then from 6 pm to midnight, with free parking on Sundays. The rules applicable in 2025 will be confirmed at a later date by the authorities. lepetitjournal.com
Salik tolls in Dubai : During Ramadan, Salik tolls will vary: 6 AED during peak hours (9.00 am to 5.00 pm), 4 AED during off-peak hours (7.00 am to 9.00 am and 5.00 pm to 2.00 am), and free between 2.00 am and 7.00 am, Monday to Saturday. On Sundays, except on public holidays and during special events, the toll will be 4 AED from 7 am to 2 am and free from 2 am to 7 am.

Respect for traditions and the spiritual environment

It is recommended that everyone, including non-Muslims, show respect towards those who are fasting. Here are a few tips to follow:lepetitjournal.com+1lepetitjournal.com+1

Avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during the day : Out of respect for those who are fasting, it is advisable to refrain from such behaviour in public.lepetitjournal.com
Dress modestly : Opt for modest clothing and avoid outfits that are too revealing.
Respect the areas set aside for prayer : Please be considerate of places of worship and avoid making noise in the vicinity.lepetitjournal.com

By adopting these behaviours, everyone helps to maintain a harmonious and respectful atmosphere during the holy month of Ramadan in the United Arab Emirates.