The act of fasting during Ramadan in Dubai, “Sawm”, is not just a mere portrayal of worship. It stands for many important aspects of Islam, like inner introspection, devotion to Allah and to self and self control. It is similar to a spiritual ‘tune-up’ for a Muslim follower. Fasting during Ramadan can be beneficial in many ways. It is said to enhance mental and physical disposition and health. The stomach, relentlessly processing food for 24 hours every day, is given some deserved rest. It is also helpful to shed away the extra weight and unwanted flabs. It is similar to going into a month long regime for making one’s spirituality and physical health better.

By distancing oneself from the material worldly comforts, fasting in Ramadan is also said to be a process of self purification. The process imparts the wisdom of self control, patience, selflessness, moderation, will power, self discipline, and social attachments. The duration of fasting in Ramadan is from dawn to sunset. It involves completely abstaining from food, smoking, and intimate sexual contact. It necessarily involves implementing control and sanctions on one’s desires and worldly evils. Ramadan fasting is mandatory for every adult Muslim. Both male and female adult followers of the Islamic faith have to go through the month long rigor of Ramadan in Dubai. There are certain exceptions to the rule though, like illness, travel, or pregnancy when one is exempted from following the fasting rules of Ramadan.

The time of breaking the fast is called as Iftaar in Arabic. The city almost comes to a standstill during the Iftaar period. Shopping malls and retail outlets open after the Iftaar and business is conducted late in to the night. The Dubai city jostles with enthusiasm and life during the evening, and hundreds of people take to the streets. Ramadan ends when the moon is first sighted. This marks the start of the “Eid” festivities that last for over three days. The first day of Eid starts at dawn. The Muslims go for prayers at this time, typically in open spaces. All sorts of social interactions between relatives are encouraged, and other joyful activities are conducted as celebrations (purchasing new clothes, shopping, etc.)

A visit to Dubai during Ramadan is certainly worthwhile, especially in the night, because of all the festivities and celebrations that take place. During Ramadan, almost every Dubai hotel offers special accommodation packages to its guests. Tourists will be able to get a complete sense of the much acclaimed Middle Eastern luxury accommodation by staying at a luxury hotel in Dubai, during Ramadan.