Although there are restrictions for non-Muslims during Ramadan, it is an ideal time for those interested to find out more about the emirate’s culture.
The
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque continues its complimentary guided tours of this magnificent structure. During Ramadan the mosque is open daily, except Friday, from 9am to 12pm (midday), and the one-hour complimentary tours start at 10am and 11am and are adapted to include insights into the practices of the Holy Month to give visitors a greater understanding of it.
Many of the
restaurants have lavish ‘Iftar’ buffets – most taking place in specially erected Ramadan tents - as the breaking of the fast is a very sociable time, special foods, which are often delicious, are eaten and this is an ideal time to try them. A visit to a Ramadan tent is recommended.
When Ramadan comes to an end, you enter the festival of Eid Al Fitr – a three-day celebration of family life. You may like to visit the annual Ramadan and Eid Festival at
Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), which this year runs from July 29 to August 19. This popular consumer exhibition features family-friendly consumer goods, unique gift items,
Arabic food, toys and games, as well as traditional song and dance to celebrate the spirit of togetherness.