The official start date of Ramadan 2024 has been announced in the UAE.
Ramadan is one of the most significant dates in the calendar for any Muslims and the start marks the beginning of 30 days of fasting.
And it is now confirmed that Ramadan in the UAE will begin on Monday March 11, 2024.
The crescent moon was sighted on the evening of Sunday March 9, meaning March 10 is the last day of the month of Sha’ban and Ramadan will begin the following day.
In previous years, bars and restaurants have been required to amend their opening hours, or times they serve alcohol and usual entertainment has not been allowed.
However, in recent years those restrictions have been relaxed and outlets are asked to be mindful and respectful of such an important time of year.
Once Ramadan is over, Eid al Fitr will be celebrated and is predicted to fall on Wednesday April 10, 2024.
A public holiday will be held that week and usually means a busy period for hotels, restaurants and bars.
During Ramadan, working hours are shorter, too.
The exact date of the end of Ramadan will be determined by religious scholars toward the end of the lunar month.