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Ramadan in the Gulf as a newcomer: what changes
Ramadan changes the rhythm of daily life for a month. If you know what to expect, it is a special time to be in the Gulf, whatever your faith.
By Shiraz Hussein · Updated
Shorter working days
Working hours are shorter during Ramadan. The rules differ by country, and in some countries they apply only to Muslim employees. This table shows the private sector rules for 2026.
| Country | Ramadan working hours | Who it applies to |
|---|---|---|
| UAE | Two hours shorter each day | All employees |
| Qatar | Up to 36 hours a week | All employees |
| Saudi Arabia | Up to 6 hours a day, 36 a week | Muslim employees |
| Kuwait | Up to 36 hours a week | All employees |
| Bahrain | Up to 6 hours a day, 36 a week | Muslim employees |
| Oman | Up to 6 hours a day, 30 a week | Muslim employees |
Governments announce the exact hours each year. Free zones such as DIFC and ADGM in the UAE have their own rules. Your employer will tell you the hours.
- Suhoor, before dawnThe meal before the fast starts.
- A shorter work dayHours are shorter. See the table above.
- A quiet afternoonMany restaurants close or serve takeaway only.
- Busy roads before sunsetPlan your journeys to avoid the last hour before sunset.
- IftarThe meal at sunset that ends the fast.
- Lively eveningsMalls and souqs stay open late.
What changes during the day
- Eating, drinking and smoking in public: don't do it during daylight hours. Rules have relaxed in some places, such as the UAE, but it is polite and simple to avoid it.
- Restaurants: many close during the day or serve takeaway only. Home delivery usually still works.
- Dress: dress a little more modestly than usual in public places.
- Music and noise: keep it down in public, including in your car with the windows open.
The busy hour before sunset
In the last hour before sunset, many people rush home to break the fast with their family. Roads get busy and some drivers are in a hurry. Plan journeys to avoid this hour if you can, and drive with extra care.
The evenings come alive
After iftar, the meal at sunset, cities wake up. Malls and souqs stay open late, and many hotels hold iftar and suhoor events. Being invited to an iftar is a kind gesture, so say yes if you can. Deal apps can help with the cost of eating out. See Deal apps in the Gulf: save on dining and days out.
Eid at the end
Ramadan ends with Eid al-Fitr, a public holiday of several days. Flights and hotels get busy and expensive. If you plan to travel, book early.
If you are fasting
For Muslim expats, Ramadan in a Muslim country is a very different experience from at home. Days can be shorter than in the UK, depending on the time of year, and the whole society shares the same rhythm. If you are new to Doha, The first 90 days in Doha explains how to find a larger mosque for Friday prayers.
Working hours and rules change. Check each year's announcement for your country.
Eid flights and hotels cost more. Allow for them when you plan your budget in the salary calculator.
Sources checked in October 2026: