Dubai To Experience Ramadan In Winter Season Through To 2031
For the first time in over two decades, the holy month of Ramadan will be observed during the winter season in Dubai, starting in 2024. This significant shift is attributed to the lunar calendar, which dictates the timing of Ramadan and results in the holy month moving earlier by 10 to 12 days each year. The Emirates Astronomy Society has confirmed this pattern, predicting that Ramadan will continue to occur in winter until 2031, before transitioning through the seasons again.
With winter officially spanning from December 21 to March 20, the forthcoming Ramadan will see shorter fasting days for Dubai residents. The expected fasting hours on the first day are from 5.15am to 6.29pm, totaling 13 hours and 14 minutes. This duration will slightly increase as the month progresses. The beginning of Ramadan is projected to be on Sunday, March 10, coinciding with the 29th of the Islamic month of Shaban, upon the sighting of the crescent moon.
Lunar Calendar and Ramadan
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, depends on the moon's phases, contrasting with the solar Gregorian calendar. The Islamic calendar, starting from Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) migration (hijra) from Mecca to Medina, features 12 months that are 354 or 355 days long. This makes it around 11 days shorter than the solar year. The months, lasting 29 or 30 days based on the moon's sighting, underscore the importance of the moon sighting committee that determines the commencement of Ramadan.
The conclusion of Ramadan, leading into the Eid Al Fitr celebrations, is similarly dictated by the moon's appearance. It's also noteworthy that the UAE celebrates the Islamic New Year, marking the hijra, as a public holiday.
Experiencing Ramadan in Winter
The upcoming winter Ramadan in Dubai offers unique comforts, especially with the National Centre of Meteorology forecasting average temperatures around 28 degrees Celsius. This cooler climate not only eases the daytime fasts but also encourages outdoor iftars and suhoors. The tradition of gathering for iftar is expected to see an increase in outdoor settings, allowing for sunset views and dining under the stars.
Ramadan markets, an integral part of the Holy Month's celebrations, are also set to be predominantly outdoor events this year. These markets offer a diverse range of products, from traditional garments to delicious local cuisines, and provide a lively, family-friendly shopping experience well into the night.
Following Ramadan, the Eid Al Fitr holiday presents an opportune time for outdoor festivities, with Dubai's pleasant beach weather complementing the vibrant city decorations, fireworks, and family gatherings that hallmark the end of the holy month.
This adjustment in the observance of Ramadan to the cooler winter months not only modifies fasting and celebration conditions but also enriches the cultural and communal experiences associated with this significant time of the year in Dubai.
Sign in with Google