Experiencing Ramadan in Abu Dhabi as a Non-Muslim

A Month of Reflection, Community, and Culture

Spending Ramadan in Abu Dhabi as a non-Muslim was nothing short of transformative. At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect—would I feel like an outsider? Would I be able to go about my daily routine? But what I found was something much deeper: a city that opened its heart during the holiest month of the Islamic calendar and welcomed everyone, regardless of faith, into a powerful atmosphere of reflection, generosity, and unity.

A Different Pace of Life

During Ramadan, Abu Dhabi slows down—but in the best way possible. The city becomes more contemplative, the rhythm of daily life gently shifts, and there's a collective sense of purpose in the air. Office hours shorten, the streets become quieter during the day, and there's a noticeable drop in the usual hustle and bustle. For someone who’s always on the go, this pause was refreshing.

Even as a non-Muslim, I found myself more mindful of my own habits—eating, speaking, even moving through public spaces with more awareness and respect. There’s something beautiful about aligning yourself, even temporarily, with the flow of a community observing something sacred.

Navigating the Day

One of the most common questions I get is: "Can you eat or drink during the day?"  The answer is yes, but with respect. In recent years, Abu Dhabi has become more accommodating—many restaurants and cafes remain open and non-Muslims can eat indoors without issue. But I still found myself waiting until I was in a private space out of courtesy. Not because I was told to—but because it just felt right.

Iftar: More Than Just a Meal

Then came my favorite part of the experience: iftar. When the sun dips below the horizon and the call to prayer echoes through the city, the fast is broken—and with it comes a surge of joy and togetherness. Whether you’re invited to a traditional Emirati home, attending one of the city's many public iftars, or simply watching families gather in parks and mosques, you’ll witness something truly special.

I had the chance to join an iftar at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Sitting under the night sky, surrounded by people of all backgrounds, I shared dates, lentil soup, and biryani while learning about the significance of the fast. It wasn’t just about food—it was about gratitude, community, and spiritual grounding.

Embracing the Spirit of Giving

Ramadan in Abu Dhabi isn’t just about fasting—it’s about giving. From donation boxes in supermarkets to large-scale food drives, the entire city comes alive with generosity.

A Time to Reflect

Even though I wasn’t fasting, I found myself reflecting more than usual. There’s something contagious about the intentionality of Ramadan. It made me think about my own habits, my relationship with time, food, and people. In a world that rarely slows down, Ramadan was an invitation to pause.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in the Middle East during Ramadan as a non-Muslim, approach it with openness. Be respectful, curious, and willing to embrace the change in pace. What you’ll discover is not exclusion—but inclusion. Not restriction—but reflection. And above all, a celebration of humanity at its most generous.

Whether it's your first time or your fifth, each Ramadan here teaches you something new. And for that, I’m deeply grateful.