Ramadan 2025: UAE Prepares for a Month of Reflection and Community

To accommodate those fasting, work hours across the UAE are adjusted during Ramadan. Private sector employees typically see their workdays shortened by two hours, while government offices operate on even more flexible schedules. Schools will also modify their hours, with spring holidays expected to begin around March 21, overlapping with the holy month. These changes ensure that residents can balance their professional, educational, and spiritual commitments during this special time.

In recent years, Ramadan in the UAE has become a season of inclusivity, with cafes and restaurants operating as usual during daylight hours and offering extended service for iftar and suhoor meals. The shift reflects the nation’s effort to balance tradition with modern lifestyles, especially as the holy month aligns with the peak tourism season. Markets, community events, and cultural activities further enhance the Ramadan experience, making it a vibrant and welcoming time for all.

Ramadan is more than just fasting – it’s a period of spiritual growth, charity, and connection. Many Muslims dedicate time to Quran recitation, communal prayers, and acts of generosity. The final ten nights of Ramadan are especially significant, with many choosing to engage in late-night prayers known as tahajjud.