The Ramadan traditions in the UAE start mid-Shaaban (the month preceding Ramadan). This day is known as Hagg Al-Layla. Emirati children dress in their best clothes and go to houses in the neighbouring areas reciting songs and poems. The neighbours welcome them with sweets and nuts, which is collected by children in traditional cloth bags.
The firing of Midfa Al Iftar (Iftar Cannon) signals the moment when Muslims can break their fast. Firing the cannon is an integral part of the Islamic culture in the UAE and takes place in many regions across the country. It can be heard around 8-10 km away. This tradition is known to people since the rule of the UAE's founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Hijri calendar. It is regarded as the holiest month of the year as it was the month in which the Holy Quran was revealed to Prophet Mohammad (PBUH).
Ramadan arrives as per the Islamic lunar calendar, which has 354 days. Hence, it arrives 11 days earlier in every subsequent year of the Gregorian calendar.
Fasting starts from the time of Fajr (dawn) prayer and may be broken at sunset upon Maghrib (sunset) call for prayers (Azaan).
