Last Updated on: 7th July 2023, 02:15 am
UAE Ramadan 2023: 7 Ways On How To Experience This Holy Month
Ramadan is scheduled to begin on 23rd March in the United Arab Emirates, and Eid-ul-Fitr falls on 21st April. However, this year will be a different experience due to various government actions to support people during the holy month.
Although the government has taken measures to make fasting easier, residents will still benefit from shorter fasting periods, cooler temperatures and living free of coronavirus restrictions during Ramadan.
Here is the list of 7 ways Ramadan in UAE will be different from last year:
Spring Break in Schools
Several schools will observe spring break and school holidays in the first half of Ramadan to allow students and parents to take short breaks or attend to their religious duties without school stress.
Spring break starts on March 27th and lasts for two weeks, including weekends.
Work At Home
The United Arab Emirates is one of the few countries that offers remote work to its residents during Ramadan. President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan instructed authorities to ensure that 70% of federal employees work on Fridays and 30% in offices.
Similarly, the Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, has also ordered government institutions to accept remote working. Many schools and universities have also announced virtual lessons for Friday.
3-Day Weekend
Umm Al Quwain had previously announced a three-day weekend for government workers during Ramadan from Friday to Saturday. However, Sharjah was the first emirate to introduce a three-day weekend in January last year.
Other emirates such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi are also considering this option.
Short Fasting Hours
This year, residents will fast for fewer hours as the holy month is shifted by 10 days each year. The first very takes place at 5:01 am. M. and Iftar at 18:32 M. on March 23 in the United Arab Emirates.
Good Weather
Each year the holy month of the winter season approaches and moves away from the scorching days of summer. Additionally, rain is forecast for the next few days in the UAE, bringing temperatures down and keeping residents comfortable throughout the month.
No Restrictions Due To Corona
Although restrictions were eased in 2022, some precautions against COVID-19 were taken during Ramadan last year to keep believers safe. These included wearing a mask indoors and maintaining one meter of social distancing. This year, however, all of these restrictions on believers were lifted.
Up To 75% Discount
Many hypermarkets and supermarkets announced massive discounts. Here is the list of hypermarkets and supermarkets that offer products at discounted prices:
| Market | Discount | Products |
| LuLu Hypermarkets | Up to 60% | Groceries, food, fresh produce, home appliances, electronics, and furniture. |
| Union Coop | Up to 75% | Basic food and non–food products, including beverages, electronics, and household appliances. |
| Carrefour | Up to 50% | More than 6,000 products, including bulk buys, international brands, and private labels. |
| Al Adil Trading | Up to 50% | Over 400 products, including rice powder, black chickpeas, sugar, juices, syrups, and fresh vegetables. |
| Al Maya Supermarket | Up to 30% | Over 480 Ramadan essentials, including beverages, frozen foods, fresh produce, and other grocery items. |
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