Dubai's 2026 Ramadan: Iftar Cannon Tradition

Ramadan 2026: Locations of Iftar Cannon Firings in Dubai – Tradition, Community, and Tourism Hand in Hand

Ramadan is not just a month of fasting in the United Arab Emirates; it is a special period deeply rooted in community experiences, hospitality, and respect for tradition. The city of Dubai pays particular attention every year to ensure that both residents and visiting tourists can be part of the Ramadan atmosphere. One of the most iconic traditions reaching back centuries is the iftar cannon firing.

Why is the iftar cannon firing important?

The iftar cannon firing is a traditional signal marking the moment of sunset – the time when the fast can be broken. While in the past, it was the only reliable method for determining the exact time, today it holds a symbolic significance: embodying unity, religious deepening, and the opportunity for communal celebration. The loud cannon fire reaches everyone in different parts of the city and serves as a reminder that Ramadan is not just about individual purification, but also a communal experience.

New for 2026: Mobile cannon on the move

The Dubai Police have announced that during the 2026 Ramadan, cannons will not only fire at the usual, well-known locations, but for the first time, a so-called "mobile cannon" (Madfa’ Rahal) will take to the road. This moving cannon will visit 11 different community and tourist locations, allowing even more people to directly experience the event – whether in their own residential area, on a hotel terrace, or in a school courtyard.

Main fixed locations where cannon firings will be heard daily

According to the police, the following iconic locations will be the main points for iftar cannon firings during the 2026 Ramadan:

Expo City Dubai – This will be the central location for the cannon firings, having become a symbolic center of the city's modern development.

Vida Creek Harbour Hotel – An increasingly popular location for those looking to combine tradition with an urban panorama.

Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) – After nearly a decade, the cannon firing returns to this waterfront district, a favorite meeting spot for locals and tourists.

Festival City – Overseen by the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, it serves as a hub for festive markets and family programs.

Burj Khalifa – In front of one of the world's most famous skyscrapers, the cannon will fire every evening, adding a unique atmosphere to the nearby restaurants and community spaces.

Locations of the mobile cannon in 2026 – closer to the community

The mobile cannon aims to reach areas previously left out of this experience. The announced locations include:

Local neighborhoods and schools – In these environments, strengthening community spirit holds particular significance.

Bab Al Shams Hotel – The desert experience and traditional Arab hospitality make it special.

Meydan Hotel – The hotel next to the famous horse racing track offers a new venue for celebration.

Atlantis Hotel – The square in front of the luxury hotel at the top of the Palm Island is expanded with spiritual function.

Global Village – The center of cultural diversity, where the iftar cannon firing can become a special memory for visitors from all nations.

More than sound – community experience

The Dubai Police emphasize that the cannon firings are more than just a ritual. The aim is not only to keep traditions alive, but also to strengthen the bond between residents and temporary visitors. During Ramadan, safety, hospitality, and compassion come to the fore – and the iftar cannon firing serves as a nightly reminder of these three values.

Furthermore, the police are incorporating technology to preserve the tradition: the movement of the mobile cannons can be followed in real-time by interested individuals via official apps or social media platforms. Thus, everyone can decide where they wish to watch and hear the first blast after sunset.

Closing thoughts – harmony of tradition and innovation

Dubai is capable of combining modernity with religious and cultural traditions in new ways every year. During the 2026 Ramadan, the iftar cannon firings will not only echo at traditional locations, but will reach people's homes and tourists' favorite attractions as well. This is not just a spectacular attraction but a deeply symbolic message: community, understanding, and shared experiences are available to all.

This is where the strength of Dubai lies – respecting the past while being open to the future. And that's why every Ramadan cannon firing becomes not only loud but also memorable.