When is Ramadan 2026 in Abu Dhabi?

Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, or Thursday, February 19, 2026, in Abu Dhabi, according to astronomical predictions by the Emirates Astronomy Society and Dubai's Islamic Affairs Department. The most likely first day of fasting is Thursday, February 19, 2026. The holy month will conclude around March 19, 2026, with Eid Al Fitr celebrations starting on Friday, March 20.

The exact start date will be officially confirmed by the UAE Moon Sighting Committee on the evening of February 17, 2026, following the traditional crescent moon observation. The UAE Council for Fatwa, chaired by His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah bin Bayyah, oversees this moon sighting process with prominent scholars and astronomers ensuring precision. Since Shaban (the month before Ramadan) began on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, Ramadan will start either on February 18 if Shaban lasts 29 days, or February 19 if it lasts 30 days.

Fasting hours will range from approximately 12 hours 46 minutes at the beginning to 13 hours 26 minutes by month's end.

What Makes Ramadan 2026 Special in Abu Dhabi

For the first time in years, Abu Dhabi experiences a winter Ramadan with pleasant temperatures between 16°C and 28°C—perfect for outdoor activities and evening experiences. The city illuminates with decorative lanterns and lights, creating an enchanting atmosphere throughout the emirate.

Working Hours: Government offices operate from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, while private sector hours are reduced by two hours daily.

School Hours: Educational institutions typically end by 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM, with spring break scheduled from March 16 to March 29, 2026.

Dining Scene: Restaurants remain open for take-away during the day with curtained dining areas for non-fasting guests. After sunset, special Iftar menus and cultural events take center stage.

Must-Experience Ramadan Events

1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

This architectural masterpiece welcomes over 70,000 worshippers on special nights like the 27th of Ramadan. The mosque distributes over 35,000 complimentary Iftar meals daily and hosts Taraweeh prayers each evening after sunset.

Non-Muslims are welcome during designated hours for free cultural tours conducted in Arabic and English. The mosque's stunning nighttime illumination offers visitors a profound sense of peace and cultural understanding.

2. Traditional Iftar Experiences

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Luxury Hotel Iftars: Five-star hotels host elaborate buffets featuring Emirati and international cuisine (AED 165-550). Top venues include Emirates Palace, The St. Regis, and Saadiyat Beach Club with waterfront settings and live traditional music.

Community Iftars: Free communal Iftars at mosques and community centers showcase the emirate's spirit of generosity, welcoming residents and visitors to experience authentic hospitality.

3. Ramadan Markets and Souqs

Vibrant night markets operate from after Iftar until midnight, featuring traditional handicrafts, Ramadan lanterns (fanoos), dates, seasonal sweets, live oud music, folk dance shows, children's workshops, and traditional clothing. Find them at Emirates Palace souk and community spaces across Al Bateen and Khalifa City.

4. Cultural Landmarks

Qasr Al Hosn: Abu Dhabi's oldest structure hosts Ramadan exhibitions with evening heritage storytelling and craft demonstrations.

Louvre Abu Dhabi: Extended hours during Ramadan with special evening programs exploring world-class exhibitions.

House of Artisans: Hands-on workshops in henna design, Arabic calligraphy, and traditional weaving techniques.

5. Suhoor & Ramadan Cannon

Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) experiences run from 2:00-4:00 AM at beachside venues, desert locations, and hotel lounges. Witness the centuries-old Ramadan cannon fired at sunset to signal breaking the fast—a unifying moment across the city.

Laylat al-Qadr: The Night of Power

Expected on Tuesday evening, March 17, 2026, this most sacred night sees the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque welcome over 70,000 worshippers for extended prayers and Quran recitation.

Eid Al Fitr 2026

Eid Al Fitr is expected to begin around Friday, March 20, 2026, creating a three-day public holiday weekend. The exact date will be confirmed following the Shawwal moon sighting on the evening of March 19. Celebrations include special prayers, fireworks displays, family gatherings with traditional dishes, children receiving Eidiyah (monetary gifts), shopping festivals, and cultural performances.

Visitor Tips for Ramadan

Respect and Etiquette

  • Refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours
  • Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered, especially at religious sites
  • Maintain quiet behavior near mosques during prayer times
  • Ask permission before photographing people during prayer or breaking fast

Planning Your Visit

Best Time: Early mornings for comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Late evenings after Iftar for vibrant Ramadan atmosphere.

Advance Bookings: Reserve Iftar venues and hotel packages at least two weeks ahead.

Transportation: Services operate normally, though traffic increases before Iftar time.

Ramadan Shopping and Entertainment

Shopping During Ramadan

Abu Dhabi's shopping scene embraces the festive spirit with extended mall hours post-Iftar. Major shopping destinations like Yas Mall, Marina Mall, and Al Wahda Mall remain open until midnight or later, offering special Ramadan promotions, fashion collections, and home décor. The traditional souqs in Al Ain and Mussafah also buzz with activity, where locals shop for dates, nuts, traditional sweets like kunafa and qatayef, and Ramadan decorations.

Special Ramadan Food Traditions

During Ramadan, Emirati cuisine takes center stage. Traditional dishes include harees (wheat and meat porridge), thareed (meat and vegetable stew with bread), machboos (spiced rice with meat), and luqaimat (sweet dumplings drizzled with date syrup). Fresh dates and Arabic coffee remain essential for breaking the fast, following the Prophet's tradition. Many families prepare large quantities of food to share with neighbors and those in need, embodying the spirit of generosity.

Family Activities and Entertainment

Ramadan nights come alive with family-friendly entertainment. The Ramadan Night Market at various locations offers live performances, children's zones with face painting and games, and food stalls serving traditional treats. Cultural venues organize Quran recitation competitions, poetry evenings, and storytelling sessions that celebrate Islamic heritage. Theme parks like Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld adjust their hours to accommodate Ramadan, opening after Iftar with special evening packages.

Charity and Giving Back

Ramadan emphasizes charity (Zakat and Sadaqah). Abu Dhabi residents and visitors can participate through various initiatives: food distribution programs, donation boxes at mosques and malls, and organized charity drives. The UAE Red Crescent and local charitable organizations run special Ramadan campaigns to support underprivileged families both locally and internationally.

Continue Your Abu Dhabi Adventure

Award-Winning Desert Safari & City Tours

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Plan Your Ramadan 2026 Journey

Abu Dhabi during Ramadan 2026 offers an unparalleled blend of spirituality, culture, and hospitality. From the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to vibrant Ramadan markets, experience authentic Arabian warmth and tradition. Start planning your journey today.