Top 10 Ramadan Traditions in UAE
UAE is a delightful as well as culturally rich country, which stands out in all aspects. With the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan, experiencing UAE’s forefront culture and religion will give you a new perspective. Also, creating an atmosphere of spirituality, unity, and generosity.
Ramadan is a celebration of fasting, reflection, and prayer. During Ramadan, people abstain from food and drink from dawn to dusk, engage in charity acts, and pray to Allah. However, Ramadan is not about losing weight, but sins. Two main meals “Suhoor and Iftar” of Ramadan. Suhoor is, having food before dawn, just before the fast begins, and Iftar is the second meal to break the fast.
So, let’s dive deep into the famous traditions. Also, if you want to feel it closely reach the Travel Saga desk
United Arab Emirates 10 Ramadan Traditions
In UAE, the color of the Ramadan tradition, is celebrated for generations. While basic ideas remain constant, there are slight variations in the Ramadan traditions depending on the country. Here are 10 popular Ramadan traditions in the UAE:
1. Haq Al Laila
Haq Al Laila is the most respected Ramadan tradition in UAE. The meaning of the name is “For this Night”, celebrated in the middle of Shaaban. The purpose of this tradition is to familiarize children with Ramadan. Also involves them in social gathering and activities. Haq Al laila comes every eighth month of the Islamic Hijri calendar.
2. Gergaoon
Don’t forget to be a part of the tradition ‘Gergaoon’, when you visit the UAE. This occasion is celebrated every year on the 14th night of Ramadan throughout the Gulf countries. When children go from door to door wearing traditional clothes, carrying baskets or bags to collect sweets from their neighbours. In the UAE, this tradition is deep rooted in Emirati culture.
3. Ramadan Night Market
The Ramadan Night Market is another important tradition. Moreover, it helps you to know more about the different cultures and backgrounds of the holy month. During the event, explore a wide range of stalls such as clothing, accessories, home décor, traditional crafts, and many more.
Some of the famous Ramadan Night Markets are as follows, together with enjoy their nearby Dubai tourist attractions with Travel Saga:
- Souk Al Marfa
- Night Market at Bluewaters Island
- Ramadan Night Market at Al Seef
- Mall of the Emirates Ramadan Night Market
- Mercato Mall Ramadan Night Markets
4. Suhoor and Iftar
A historic practice, signalling the beginning and end of daily fasts. Trained soldiers in designated locations fire cannons at Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and Iftar (evening meal) times, serving as a community-wide reminder to gather, celebrate, and share meals, while honouring UAE’s cultural and religious legacy.
5. Avoidance of Driving Before Sunset
This tradition underlines self-discipline and community empathy, as many choose not to drive just before sunset, focusing instead on rest and preparation for Iftar. It enhances road safety and reflects the Islamic values of consideration and care during Ramadan.
6. Iftar and Suhoor Tents
Emirati hospitality shines through the setting up of tents offering free meals, particularly benefiting low-wage workers. Notable locations include Asateer Tent, Iftar at Al-Majlis in Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai Opera, and Jumeirah Emirates Towers, showcasing a commitment to charity and community support during Ramadan.
7. Reduction in Working Hours:
Recognizing the physical and mental demands of fasting, both public and private sectors reduce working hours, reflecting the societal respect for Ramadan’s significance. This accommodation ensures well-being while supermarkets, malls, and restaurants adapt their schedules to cater to fasting and non-fasting individuals alike.
8. Taraweeh Prayer:
This additional, voluntary prayer, performed in congregation after Isha during Ramadan, allows for the recitation of the Quran in its entirety over the month. Special arrangements by the UAE government facilitate a comfortable and safe environment for this spiritually enriching practice.
9. Family Gatherings:
Marking the beginning of Ramadan, families come together to share meals, exchange greetings, and foster a sense of gratitude, forgiveness, and community, reinforcing the familial and communal bonds essential to Ramadan’s spirit.
10. Special Ramadan Food:
Special Ramadan dishes reflect the culture, heritage, and culinary traditions of the region. Additionally, these dishes are prepared and enjoyed during the month of Ramadan and are often associated with the spirit of generosity and hospitality that is central to the holy month.
Conclusion
Well, there you have it folks! These 10 Ramadan traditions are commonly celebrated in the UAE! From fasting and praying together to charitable work and spending time with family, these traditions are a beautiful reflection of the values and beliefs held dear in Emirati culture.
So, on behalf of Travel Saga, we wish you a very Happy Ramadan! This may be a time of spiritual growth, connections with loved ones, and acts of kindness and generosity. Ramadan Mubarak!
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