Mashable: The United Arab Emirates is gearing up to welcome the holy month of Ramadan.

Just a couple of weeks away, Ramadan sees Muslims all over the world practice fasting from dawn to dusk. It is one of the five “pillars of Islam” and brings spiritual growth among individuals.

This year, the holy month of Ramadan will return to the United Arab Emirates bringing a more relaxed pace of life across the country as people engage in declaration of faith, reflection, prayer, community, alms-giving, as well as Hajj- the pilgrimage to Mecca.

According to the Khaleej Times, the Hijri calendar aka Islamic calendar published by the Dubai Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) states that Ramadan will commence on Tuesday, March 12, 2024.

Residents of the UAE and Muslims worldwide have also started with the greetings of “Ramadan Mubarak”, as the month of fasting draws near.

As the daily routines of the residents will change during the holy month, let’s take a look at all the things that will change with it:

Working hours

Ramadan brings reduced working hours which applies to both fasting and non-fasting employees. The UAE government typically announces reduced working hours. Most employees in the private sector get a two-hour reduction, whereas public sector employees follow six six-hour schedule instead of eight.

#UAE_Cabinet approves official holidays calendar for government and private sectors for year 2024 pic.twitter.com/HHtIQawNy8

— UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) November 21, 2023
Holidays

The end of the auspicious month of Ramadan leads to Eid Al Fitr celebrations. This year, holidays will start from 29 Ramadan to 3 Shawwal 1445 AH (4 days). This year, UAE residents are set to get a six-day-long holiday break.

School

Academic days in the UAE are typically reduced to five hours daily. However, this year, most schools in the region will be reportedly closed during the first three weeks of the holy month, due to the spring or end-of-term break.

Parking

Paid parking hours are also modified during the holy month of Ramadan and will be announced closer to the holy month.

Prayers

Ramadan players create a different atmosphere. Muslims mostly of their five daily prayers at mosques, which are especially packed during the special prayers called Taraweeh.