Ramadan in the United Arab Emirates

The holy month of Ramadan in the United Arab Emirates has its distinctive customs, traditions and rituals that everyone abides by, distinguishing this month from the rest of the year. Ramadan is the month of mercy, kinship, reflection and enjoyment with family and friends. Celebrations and preparations for Ramadan begin on the night of the middle of Sha’ban, known as “Haq al-Laila” in the UAE. The month is filled with entertainment, spiritual, and cultural activities and events that tie into the atmosphere of Ramadan.

Haq al-Laila

The celebration of the month of Ramadan begins in the UAE on the night of the middle of Sha’ban, known as “Haq Al-Laila” or “Qarqe’an”, which is part of the Emirati heritage. it is an occasion that represents one of the symbols of love and giving. The tradition involves girls dressed in embroidered clothes and boys in their Kandoras (traditional Emirati clothes), gathering from afternoon to sunset, carrying bags made of cloth, “Al-Kharayet”. They chant traditional songs and go around the neighborhood, named “Al-Fareej”, asking for sweets and nuts.

Ramadan Crescent "Hilal"

In the past, as the month of Ramadan approached, a group of men would meet every day after the Maghrib prayer to search for the crescent. Among them were trusted men who had memorized the Quran and were well-known for their accurate sighting of the crescent. When the sighting was confirmed, the news is announced by firing the cannon, and everyone exchanged congratulations on the start of the blessed month. Nowadays, Emiratis and residents rely on what the official Emirati media broadcasts about the investigation of the International Astronomy Center for the Crescent from the summit of Jebel Jais, the highest peak in the UAE, located in the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah.

Ramadan Cannon

The tradition of Ramadan cannon has been inherited in the Emirates for 40 years. its people and residents used to watch it during the month of Ramadan, at the end of fasting hours and coinciding with call to Maghrib prayer. The locations of the iftar cannon vary, but the site must be one of the most famous tourist attractions in the emirate.

Ramadan Feast

Emirati cuisine is known for its abudance and diversity, as well as its pleasant taste and armona, mainly because of the mixture of spices, such as cinnamon, saffron, turmeric, and nutmeg. Since ancient times, Emirati cuisine has relied on what is available in the surrounding environment, and the sea is the most important source. Emiratis are famous for cooking fish of various types and sizes. Dates, which are widely available in the UAE, are also used as the basis for making different types of sweets such as Al-Batheeth and Madbas. Among the most prominent Emirati desserts are luqaimat, asida, al-Khanfaroush, and Al-Qars Al-Aqili.

Despite the changes and developments that have taken place in various aspects of life in the Emirates, many families still adhere to the customs of the Ramadan feast and are keen to revive the authentic traditions of the month, passing them down to the next generation. As the sun approaches sunset, family members gather around the table, waiting for the call to Maghrib prayer to break their fast. The first thing that Emirati families prefer to eat after dates and milk is the popular traditional dish, harees, which is considered a main dish on the Emirati table during the month of Ramadan.

Famous Traditional Dishes

Rice, fish, and meat are among the main meals in the UAE, and the most popular dishes on Ramadan tables include:

• Harees: A meal consisting of wheat grains and meat or chicken, cooked for a long time and stirred continuously until fully cooked. Harees is usually associated with weddings, special occasions, and iftar tables during the holy month of Ramadan.
• Thareed: A dish made of bread dipped in meat broth. The bread used in thareed is called riqaq, which is cut into small pieces and placed in a bowl. Then, the broth is poured over them and stirred, and finally, the meat or chicken is placed on top of the bread and served.
• Biryani: A popular multi-cultural dish made of spices, rice, meat, chicken, or vegetables. Biryani is a favorite dish during Ramadan and is regularly served on iftar tables.
• Machboos: A dish cooked in GCC countries with slight variations. The ingredients include onions, tomatoes, garlic, potatoes, and Arabic spices, all cooked together over low heat with lamb or chicken.
• Luqaimat: Sweet ball-shaped pancakes made of flour, water, yeast, and cardamom. They are whipped into a smooth and soft mixture, then placed in hot oil and fried until golden brown.
• Ferni dessert: An essential part of the traditional foods that families serve during Ramadan

Famous Drinks

These drinks are commonly found on Emirati tables throughout the year, but they are particularly popular during Iftar meals in the UAE, especially during the month of Ramadan:

• Arabic coffee: This coffee is flavored with cardamom, cumin, saffron, and cloves. It is traditionally poured from an Arabic dallah and is usually served with dates.

Karak Tea

• Karak Tea: Originating from India, Karak tea is indicative of the strong trade relations between the UAE and India. It is made of black tea, sugar, crushed cardamom, saffron, and concentrated milk.
• Jallab: is made of grape molasses and rose water, and is often garnished with pine nuts and raisins.
• Qamar al-Din: Made from dried apricot paste, this sweet drink is a popular choice during Ramadan.
• Ayran: This yogurt-based drink is rich in protein and helps to rehydrate the fasting person after a long day of fasting.
• Vimto: This concentrated sugar syrup contains cherry juice, berries, and cola extract, and is a popular drink during Ramadan in the UAE.

Religious Rituals

Iftar Projects and Mercy Tables

Iftar Projects and Mercy Tables are among the most notable charitable initiatives undertaken by the UAE government and its citizens. These projects are an integral part of Ramadan traditions that embody the spirit of generosity, kindness, mercy, and communal participation, as taught by Islam. The aim of these tables and tents is to bring together fasting Muslims of different nationalities, cultures, and social backgrounds around a shared iftar table.

Mercy tables are typically set up voluntarily by authorized individuals, who create open seating areas or tents in front of mosques or in open spaces across the country. The Red Crescent Authority, in partnership with the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation for Humanitarian Works, also organizes Ramadan tents in various regions of the country. These tents host communal iftar banquets and are located near mosques, in open spaces, and sometimes even outside the homes of Emirati citizens.

In Abu Dhabi, the "Our Fasting Guests" project is held annually at the Sheikh Zayed Mosque. This initiative, which is inspired by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan's legacy, offers breakfast meals to fasting individuals in collaboration with the Armed Forces Officers Club in Abu Dhabi. The project benefits tens of thousands of people who are fasting every day, as it provides around 12 large, air-conditioned tents to accommodate them throughout the month of Ramadan.

Quran Recitation

Taraweh Prayer

The Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities in Dubai has recently launched the "Dubai Readers" event as part of the "Ramadan Dubai 1443 AH" initiative, which will take place in 11 mosques throughout the month. The initiative includes the participation of famous Quran reciters from both inside and outside the country, totaling 62 reciters with beautiful voices, as well as students from the Maktoum centers for memorizing the Holy Qur’an. The event offers a range of activities, including listening to lectures, religious lessons, and reading the Holy Qur’an, with the aim of reviving the Sunnah of the Prophet. Additionally, the Ramadan Dubai 1443-2022 AD initiative includes several other activities, such as seminars and competitions for memorizing the Holy Qur’an, as well as special events for new Muslims.

Taraweeh Prayers

Taraweeh prayers are among the most anticipated and important prayers during the month of Ramadan for Muslims, and it is a confirmed Sunnah in the Islamic religion for both men and women. In the UAE, this Ramadan tradition has been passed down through generations, and the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments in the country annually determines the timings of the five daily prayers, Iftar, Suhoor, and Taraweeh prayers throughout the month. Family members gather to pray Isha and Taraweeh in mosques that are dedicated to receive worshippers, and the number of rak'ahs of prayer varies according to the opinions of Islamic scholars.

Visiting Families

Emirati society places great importance on adhering to customs and traditions during Ramadan, with the "Majlis" being prepared for family and neighbors to receive visitors. In some cases, gifts are presented to families, Quran readers, and friends, as a way to strengthen kinship relationships.

Religious and Social Events

Ramadan Mir

Ramadan Mir is an initiative that aims to promote community solidarity within the UAE, which is one of the principles emphasized in Islam during the blessed month of Ramadan. The initiative provides basic food items to needy families, including widows, divorcees, abandoned women, wives of prisoners, and low-income earners, so that they may benefit from the blessings of Ramadan. The aim is to extend a helping hand and provide support to those in need during this holy month.

A number of charitable associations and institutions in the UAE organize the Ramadan Mir initiative, providing in-kind assistance to the needy as part of their charitable works during Ramadan. These include the Mohammed bin Rashid Charitable Foundation, the International Charitable Organization, the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation for Humanitarian Works, and other organizations that distribute food commodities to those in need. Locations and working hours of distribution centers are typically announced each year.

Dubai International Holy Quran Award

The Dubai International Holy Quran Award is an annual competition organized in Dubai, UAE under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, for both international and local scholars and memorizers of the Holy Qur’an. The competition has been running for 25 years and aims to encourage and promote the memorization and understanding of the Qur’an.

Zakat Fund

The Zakat Fund is an independent institution in the UAE that is legally authorized to take actions to achieve its objectives. It operates to increase awareness of the importance of zakat and alms, especially during the month of Ramadan, and their vital role in community development. The Fund also supports needy families through various projects.

Zayed Giving Initiative

The Zayed Giving Initiative , established in 2003, is a charitable organization that focuses on voluntary humanitarian work and charitable relief, including health, education, environment, and culture.

Cultural and Entertainment Activities

Dubai illuminates the city during the holy month of Ramadan with numerous lights and decorations, including the iconic "Modhish" character displayed on lampposts and trees. Popular market centers such as La Mer, City Walk, The Beach, Al Marfa Market, and Al Seef Destination are adorned with traditional Ramadan decorations. The Dubai Festival City Mall's night market offers Arabic musical entertainment sessions and a unique camel ride experience. The Emirati Village hosts workshops, storytelling for children, and displays of Emirati heritage equipment and Arabic calligraphy arts to showcase the traditions of the Emirati people.