Where To Watch Iftar Cannon Firing In Dubai This Ramadan? Details Here
Ramadan is almost here and preparations are in full swing in the UAE. Dubai Police has officially announced the location of their traditional Ramadan cannons across Dubai. These cannons, a long-standing symbol of the holy month, will be stationed across the emirate, at various locations including the Expo City Dubai, which will host the main cannon. Additionally, this year will also have a mobile cannon, set to visit 13 different areas, ensuring the tradition reaches as many people as possible.
Stationary And Mobile Cannon Locations
The stationary cannons will be placed at strategic locations including Expo City Dubai, Damac Hills, Vida Creek Harbour, Burj Khalifa, Mirdif Downtown, Festival City, and Hatta Guest House. These cannons will fire at sunset to mark the start of iftar each evening during Ramadan.
The mobile cannon, on the other hand, will cover a broader area by spending two days at each of its 13 designated sites. The journey will commence at Al Satwa Big Mosque and will include key locations such as Nad Al Sheba, Al Ghaf Walk, Umm Suqeim Majlis, Zabeel Park, Al Khawaneej Majlis, and Festival City, concluding at Dubai International Financial Centre.
Dubai Police's Role And Moon-Sighting Preparations
Maj Gen Abdullah Ali Al Ghaithi, assistant commandant for Operations Affairs at Dubai Police, highlighted the force's commitment to overseeing the firing of each cannon, adhering to Arabic and Islamic customs. Additionally, the cannon firings will be broadcast on TV during iftar, allowing the tradition to be shared with a wider audience.
In preparation for Ramadan, Lt Col Abdullah Al Amimi confirmed that a committee is ready to confirm the sighting of the Moon, which is expected on March 10 or 11. This sighting will officially mark the beginning of Ramadan. Two vintage French cannons, dating back to the 1960s and also used last year, will be utilized once more. These cannons will fire twice upon the confirmed sighting of the Ramadan crescent Moon, then once daily to announce iftar, and twice to announce both Eid Al Fitr and the first morning of Eid.
This initiative by Dubai Police to maintain and share the tradition of Ramadan cannon firings is a testament to the UAE's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while embracing modernity. The careful selection of locations for both stationary and mobile cannons ensures that this cherished practice remains an integral part of the Ramadan experience for residents and visitors alike, fostering a sense of community and shared tradition across the emirate.
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