Ramadan 2027 in the UAE: expected dates and what to expect

Khaleej Times, citing the UAE Astronomy Centre, reports that Ramadan 2027 is expected to begin on 8 February 2027, after the Shaban crescent is likely sighted on 6 or 7 February. The article notes the crescent will be impossible to see from several parts of the world, including the UAE, so Shaban is expected to last 30 days.

Eid Al Fitr is likely on Tuesday 9 March if the Shawwal crescent is sighted on 8 March, and Wednesday 10 March if not. PublicHolidays.ae estimates the holiday as 8 to 11 March. See our Ramadan and Eid listing.

The same report gives Arafat Day on 15 or 16 May and Eid Al Adha on Sunday 16 or Monday 17 May, and the Islamic New Year on 5 to 7 June depending on when Dhul Hijjah begins. Treat all of these as provisional.

During Ramadan, evening programmes shift later and some venues change their hours. Cultural series continue: NYU Abu Dhabi's Ramadaniyat: The Handover is listed on 17 February, from AED 52.50. Check each organiser's Ramadan schedule rather than assuming a normal timetable.

Big sport continues too. The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships are listed from 14 to 27 February, overlapping the first weeks of the month.

Many visitors like the atmosphere of the evenings, with iftar and suhoor programmes. Daytime public eating and drinking rules apply, and some venues operate shorter hours. This is a judgement call, and travel guides disagree on whether it is easier or harder than other months.