Discover Dubai's Ramadan Vocabulary

Ramadan in Dubai: What Do Common Words Mean and How They Transform the Month's Atmosphere

As the month of Ramadan begins, the atmosphere in Dubai completely transforms. Not only does the city's rhythm, meal timing, and community life change, but the vocabulary used also shifts. Those who have lived in the United Arab Emirates for years can likely easily recognize this linguistic change, but for newcomers, the expressions that resound everywhere during this period might be mysterious.

Below we introduce the words and expressions you'll surely encounter if you're in Dubai during Ramadan — whether at work, with friends, in a restaurant, or even on the metro.

Ramadan Kareem and Ramadan Mubarak: The New Form of Greeting

One of the first phrases you'll hear is "Ramadan Kareem" or "Ramadan Mubarak." These are not merely polite expressions but unique linguistic symbols of the Ramadan month. "Ramadan Kareem" means "Generous Ramadan," while "Ramadan Mubarak" means "Blessed Ramadan." These greetings are often supplemented with the Islamic salutation "Assalamu Alaikum," thus reinforcing community bonds not only at the religious but also at the social level.

Sawm: Fasting, More Than Just a Meal Break

One of the most important elements of Ramadan is fasting, or "sawm" in Arabic. This doesn't just mean abstaining from eating and drinking from sunrise to sunset but also includes refraining from smoking and marital relations. The purpose of sawm is bodily and spiritual purification and the development of self-discipline.

Suhoor: The Pre-dawn Meal Providing Energy

"Suhoor" is the meal taken before dawn. It plays a crucial role in ensuring those observing the fast have enough energy throughout the day. Those who miss it often say, "I didn't wake up for suhoor." This can make the day particularly challenging as one has to wait long hours for the next meal.

Imsak: The Stricter Start

Although fasting officially begins with the dawn prayer, the "fajr," many stop eating a few minutes earlier. This period is called "imsak." It's a kind of precaution that provides a moment of silence before the prayer.

Iftar: The Festive Moment of Breaking the Fast

"Iftar" is one of the most frequently heard expressions during Ramadan. It's the first meal after sunset, officially connected to the maghrib prayer. Traditionally, the fast is broken with dates and water, followed by a light dinner or communal meal with family and friends. During iftar, a sense of belonging sweeps through Dubai: parks, mosques, and communal spaces fill with life.

Taraweeh: The Mood of Night Prayers

During Ramadan, special prayers take place, known as "taraweeh" prayers, performed after the night prayer, isha. These longer, collective prayers often last over an hour, and mosques fill up, especially where renowned Quran reciters lead the prayer. This is not only a religious event but also a communal experience.

Qiyam Al Layl: Midnight Devotion

In the last ten nights of Ramadan, many believers participate in "qiyam al layl" prayers. These are voluntary prayers held between the isha and dawn prayers, often after midnight. Dubai mosques remain open until 3 am, and many choose this time for spiritual deepening.

Laylat Al Qadr: A Night Better Than a Thousand

The "Night of Power" (Laylat Al Qadr) falls on one of the odd nights in the last ten days of Ramadan. Legend holds that this night is worth more than a thousand months of prayer. People stay awake much longer and engage in particularly intense prayers.

Zakat: Mandatory Help

"Zakat" is one of Islam's pillars, manifesting as a mandatory donation. Every wealthy Muslim must annually offer a specified portion for charitable purposes. During Ramadan, especially many give their zakat because charity holds even greater significance in this period.

Sadaqah: Heartfelt Donation

While zakat is mandatory, "sadaqah" is voluntary charity. Many give food, money, or time to others during Ramadan, often quietly, without expectation or publicity. Sadaqah can be more than just financial aid; it can be any good deed: a smile, a kind word, a helping hand.

Final Thoughts

Ramadan in Dubai is not just a religious period but a rewiring of the social fabric. The special vocabulary is part of the religious practice and reflects a culture where community, compassion, and spirituality walk hand in hand. Knowing these words and understanding their meanings allows you to follow conversations better and deeply appreciate the unique atmosphere the month of Ramadan creates in Dubai.