If you’re planning a trip to Dubai, checking the season is a must.
You’re probably thinking: “Isn’t Dubai just sunny and perfect all year round?”
Well, not exactly. During the winter months (October to February), the temperatures are actually quite bearable, and it’s easily the best time to visit the Emirate. However, don’t be surprised if you run into some rain or “colder” weather in January.
In fact, just this January 2026, Dubai saw some pretty heavy rainfall!
Beyond the weather, you also need to keep an eye on the cultural and religious calendar, specifically the Ramadan season.
During Ramadan, many attractions close for parts of the day, and there are strict rules about not eating or drinking in public while people are fasting. I actually learned this the hard way once! I was stopped while trying to have a quick snack in an open area because I hadn’t realized the rules.
I’d been on a long walk and really needed an energy boost, but I had to wait until I got back to my hotel. Even eating in a taxi is generally frowned upon during this time.
If you want the full breakdown, we have a comprehensive article on the pros and cons of visiting Dubai during Ramadan that will give you a better feel for what to expect.
But let’s get to why you’re here: When is Ramadan in 2026?
Ramadan Dates in 2026
Ramadan does not fall on the same date each year in the Gregorian or ‘normal’ calendar.
This is because it follows the Islamic (Hijri) lunar calendar, which is approximately 10-12 days shorter than the regular calendar most of the world uses.
Muslims determine the start of Ramadan by sighting the new crescent moon at the end of the month of Sha’ban. Once that crescent is seen, the next day becomes the first day of Ramadan, and people begin fasting from dawn to sunset.
Expected Ramadan Dates for 2026
Below are the estimated dates of the fasting period as well as Eid:
- First day of Ramadan 2026 (expected): Thursday, 19 February 2026
- Ramadan ends (expected): Thursday, 19 March 2026
- Eid Al Fitr: Expected to start Friday, 20 March 2026
Related: Is February a Good Time to Visit Dubai?
These dates are predicted based on moon calculations, but the official beginning and end are only confirmed when the new crescent moon is sighted in the UAE.
Ramadan lasts either 29 or 30 days, depending on the moon sighting, so the exact end date and Eid may shift by a day.
