With Ramadan 2025 approaching, Dubai is gearing up for the holy month with significant operational adjustments across various sectors. From altered working hours to updated transport schedules, both residents and visitors should be aware of the latest changes to make the most of this important time.
The sighting of the crescent moon, which officially marks the start of Ramadan, is scheduled for the evening of Friday, February 28th. This is not just a tradition; it’s a central moment for families and communities, inviting the public to partake. Anyone who spots the moon is encouraged to report their sighting by calling 027774647 or filling out the official form.
Dubai has introduced flexible working arrangements for both the public and private sectors this Ramadan. Public sector employees can enjoy remote work for two days each week and operate on flexible hours throughout the month. Employees are required to complete at least five and a half hours from Monday to Thursday, and three hours on Fridays. Specifically, their working hours will be:
- Monday to Thursday: 9 AM to 2:30 PM
- Friday: 9 AM to 12 PM
Meanwhile, private sector employees will see their hours reduced by two hours during Ramadan, making it more manageable for them to observe their fast.
Public transportation across the city will also adhere to revised schedules during the holy month. The Dubai Metro will maintain the following timings:
- Monday to Thursday: 5 AM to 12 AM (Midnight)
- Friday: 5 AM to 1 AM (the following day)
- Saturday: 5 AM to 12 AM (Midnight)
- Sunday: 8 AM to 12 AM (Midnight)
The Dubai Tram will follow its regular schedule as well, with operations from:
- Monday to Saturday: 6 AM to 1 AM (Next Day)
- Sunday: 9 AM to 1 AM (Next Day)
Bus services will also see adjustments, and riders are advised to check for updates via the S’hail app, which provides real-time information on bus schedules.
Parking regulations will change too. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has set the paid parking hours, which will operate as follows:
- Monday to Saturday: 8 AM to 6 PM (first shift)
- Monday to Saturday: 8 PM to 12 AM (second shift)
It’s important to note, multi-level parking facilities will remain operational 24/7, accommodating late-night visitors.
During Ramadan, all public school students across the UAE will engage in distance learning on Fridays, aligning with the initiative aimed at encouraging families to spend more quality time together as they observe the significance of the holy month.
A tradition cherished across the UAE is the firing of the Ramadan cannon, which marks the end of the daily fast at sunset. This year, the cannons will be positioned at several iconic locations throughout Dubai. Residents can expect to hear the cannon fire from:
- Burj Khalifa
- Al Khawaneej Majlis
- Damac Hills
- Expo City Dubai
- Hatta Fort Hotel
- Uptown Mirdif
- Salt Camp (Kite Beach)
- Wasl Properties
Beyond these fixed locations, a mobile cannon will traverse the city, stopping at 17 different spots to celebrate the end of fasting, allowing more citizens to partake in this historic tradition.
Fasting during Ramadan begins with dawn and ends at sunset. On the first day, fasting hours are anticipated to last around 12 hours and 58 minutes, concluding with 13 hours and 41 minutes by the end of the month. Such traditions bind the community, providing moments of reflection and unity.
Lastly, the celebratory Eid Al Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, will be determined by the sighting of the next crescent moon, but is currently forecasted to fall between March 29th and March 30th. This joyous occasion signifies not just the end of fasting, but is also embraced as time for festivities and charity.
To remain engaged and informed during this sacred time, residents of Dubai should stay updated as the holy month draws near, ensuring they can fully embrace the spirit and tradition of Ramadan.