Earlier, there was a strict restriction from eating and drinking in public during the month of Ramadan in Dubai. However, the rules have now been relaxed, and visitors can eat and drink regularly during the day.
Can I not even drink water during Ramadan in Dubai? It is true that Muslims refrain from even drinking water; however, as a tourist, you can do so discreetly. You can drink with a meal in a designated restaurant, or during the day nipping into a bathroom or anywhere not in the public eye you can steal a sip.
Is it allowed to eat, drink or smoke in public during fasting hours? No, during the fasting hours, it is expected that even non-Muslims follow the fasting rules in public. You are allowed to eat, drink and smoke privately. During work, companies are required to provide a dining room out of sight of those who fast.
The Emirates Authority for Standardization and Authorization defines tap water in UAE be safe for human consumption as long as it complies with the UAE. S GSO 149 code. DEWA-Dubai Electricity and Water Authorities makes sure that the water is completely safe.
What does the law say about eating in public during Ramadan? During Ramadan, it is not permissible to eat, drink or smoke in public between imsak, which is 10 minutes before dawn, until the sun sets, at iftar. This rule is reiterated in the UAE's Federal Law No. 3 of 1987, also known as the Penal Code.
When travelling to Dubai during Ramadan, one thing to consider is to be a bit more respectful than on other days. This means not eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours out of respect for those who are fasting, although you can eat and drink in your hotel as normal.
During Ramadan in Dubai, it is recommended that both men and women dress conservatively. Not doing so may offend those who are fasting. Individuals must refrain from wearing revealing and/or tight clothing and at the very least ensure shoulders and knees are well covered during the Holy Month.
Security: Always ensure that the doors and access to balconies are properly locked and secured. Alcohol and Intoxications: Consuming alcohol or other types of drugs on the balcony is against civic ethics.
Can you Drink Tap Water in Dubai? The tap water you receive from the supply company is safe to drink. Furthermore, Dubai's water supply infrastructure has a large surplus reserve to compensate even if everyone in Dubai starts to use tap water for drinking and cooking.
Liquor licences are not available to non-residents in the other Emirates, but it is possible for tourists and visitors to buy and drink alcohol in licensed venues, such as hotels, restaurants and clubs.
“When a person unintentionally eats or drinks, it doesn't break their fast. Their fast still holds,” he said. “Quran says: 'And there is no sin on you if you make a mistake therein, except in regard to what your heart deliberately intends.
- You can take a shower during your fasting period as you may feel thirsty, dehydrated or heated. However, make sure that you do not swallow the water. - Women can apply kohl (kajal or eyeliner) or men/women can use eye drops or any other thing for the eyes.
It is strictly prohibited to eat, drink, or chew gum in public during the month of Ramadan from dawn to dusk. This is in order to encourage and respect those who will be fasting during the month. At work, make sure that you eat in designated break rooms that are not exposed to the general working area.
Ramadan etiquette for non-Muslims
Non-Muslims do not have to fast in Ramadan. However, they are prohibited from eating, drinking and smoking in public during the fasting hours. This includes chewing gum.
The Dubai Fountain evening show takes place every 30 minutes from 6 pm to 11 pm daily. Lunchtime Dubai Fountain shows are planned seasonally (not during Ramadan) and take place at 1 pm and 1.30 pm (1.30 pm and 2 pm on Fridays).
Mostly people don't drink but I have seen it and there hasn't been any upset. If you are well behaved and subtle then it's unlikely (but not impossible) that there will be a problem. Being cautious in Dubai is good. Do not argue with security staff or police.
Dubai offers high-quality tap water. So, in any case, you can brush your teeth with tap water in Dubai.
The free refill stations can be found in beaches, parks, malls and major attractions. تهدف لتقليل استخدام عبوات المياه البلاستيكية، وتشجيع ثقافة إعادة ملء عبوات المياه للشرب. New initiative to encourages Dubai's community to reduce the single-use plastic water bottles and use refillable bottles.
Dubai drinking laws
Alcohol can only be consumed in private (such as your own home or hotel) or in licensed public places.
One of the most frequently asked questions and confusing areas of Islamic Law and local customs that visitors to Dubai need to be aware of is around whether it is legal to drink alcohol in Dubai. The short answer – for non-Muslims – is YES, you can drink alcohol in Dubai.
What happens if you are caught? It's illegal to drink in the street or a public place or be under the influence of alcohol in a public space. While a licence is still required to drink alcohol in Dubai, there is no longer a fee for the application. Dubai has very strict laws and tough penalties include fines and jail.
Restaurants in Dubai will be advised to offer customers the choice of free tap water starting from next year 2020, according to new regulations by the Dubai Municipality Food Code.
Dubai's shopping malls are extending their opening hours during Ramadan 2023, to allow late-night shopping. The city's Festival and Retail Establishment (DFRE) announced many of the city's most popular shopping and leisure destinations will stay open beyond midnight during the holy month.
Opening hours
They open at their usual times (around 10am) but are actually open for much longer than usual, closing well after midnight. Be sure to double check opening times before setting out. Many malls, theme parks, major landmarks and attractions are comparatively empty during the day.
Nudity is strictly forbidden. Swimwear is not not allowed in public places. However, it can be worn in pools and beaches. Out of respect of Islamic tradition, female travellers will be required to wear abayas or head coverings when visiting mosques.