Ramadan
Eating & drinkingMany restaurants close down during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, and some only open in the evenings. Those in major hotels do stay open throughout the day for foreign visitors, however, but they are screened off from general view. Call in advance to avoid disappointment.
Lavish "Iftar" buffets are a feature of Ramadan evenings, and an excellent opportunity to sample local delicacies.
It is considered offensive to eat or drink in public during daylight hours, and you could be stopped by the police if you are seen to do so.
Activities
Some tourist activities also shut down or operate reduced hours during this month, although attractions such as Wild Wadi remain open. Again, our advice would be to call in advance to check opening hours.
Driving
Traffic-wise, the roads are quieter during the day, as businesses cut their working hours, but steer clear of driving at sunset if you can as this is when everyone rushes home to break their fast. It is then busy until late in the evening, as local residents go out to shop.
Eid
Eid Al-Fitr, the "Feast of Fast Breaking", which marks the end of Ramadan, and Eid Al- Adha, the "Feast of Sacrifice", are both public holidays, lasting 3 days, and are times of celebration when lavish food is served and gifts are exchanged.Diwali
The Indian New Year is celebrated in honour of the Hindu Goddess Lakshmi by Dubai's large Indian population. It is often referred to as the "Festival of Lights", as lamps symbolizing the light of wisdom and knowledge are lit every night of the 5-day festival.Important dates 2008/9
These are based on estimates of the visibility of the lunar crescent, and the Islamic month may actually start 1-2 days earlier or later than predicted.- Ramadan begins: September 2, 2008
- Eid Al-Fitr: October 2, 2008
- Diwali: October 28, 2008
- Eid Al-Adha: December 11, 2008
- Islamic New Year: December 29, 2008
