Ramadan in Sharjah is one of the most special times of the year, a month filled with spiritual reflection, cultural celebrations and rich Emirati traditions that bring the whole emirate to life. In 2026, Ramadan is expected to begin on Thursday, 19 February 2026, and last for 29–30 days, with the holy month likely to end on Friday, 20 March 2026, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon.
During this period, Sharjah transforms into a vibrant blend of evening markets, traditional tents, cultural showcases, and communal iftars, offering both residents and visitors a deep and unforgettable experience of Ramadan’s spirit. From spectacular festivals and festive shopping to tranquil moments of prayer and charity, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and appreciate in this remarkable emirate.
- Visit the Sharjah Ramadan Festival
- Enjoy Exclusive Ramadan Shopping
- Experience Ramadan Nights at Expo Centre Sharjah
- Attend Cultural and Heritage Events
- Enjoy Iftar and Suhoor in Traditional Settings
- Engage in Charitable and Religious Activities
- Visit Night Markets and Ramadan Tents
- See the Friday Sermon Translations in 40 Languages
- Practical Tips for Visitors During Ramadan in Sharjah
- Transport & Parking During Ramadan in Sharjah
- Key Takeaways
- FAQs
1. Visit the Sharjah Ramadan Festival
Each year during Ramadan, Sharjah comes alive with the Sharjah Ramadan Festival, a celebration that blends faith, community spirit, culture and commerce across the emirate. While exact dates for the 2026 festival haven’t been officially published yet, this beloved event traditionally runs throughout the holy month of Ramadan, offering visitors a rich programme of promotions, activities and cultural experiences that reflect Emirati traditions and hospitality.
The festival, organised by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), typically spans multiple weeks and brings together shopping discounts, heritage displays and entertainment in malls and public venues across Sharjah, making it a highlight for both residents and tourists during the holy month.
Expect vibrant market setups, family-friendly shows, interactive cultural exhibits and opportunities to enjoy seasonal culinary treats, all in a festive atmosphere that honours the spirit of Ramadan. It’s a perfect way to experience the emirate’s unique blend of tradition and modernity under one roof.
2. Enjoy Exclusive Ramadan Shopping
Shopping centres, retail outlets and local shops throughout Sharjah provide amazing discounts and offers during the festive month. Locals and tourists can browse exclusive Ramadan collections, win prizes and enjoy a festive environment that celebrates Emirati culture.
Malls such as Sahara Centre, City Centre Sharjah and Mega Mall come alive with Ramadan-themed decor and activities.
3. Experience Ramadan Nights at Expo Centre Sharjah
One of the main attractions of Sharjah is Ramadan Nights at Expo Centre Sharjah, which hosts more than 150,000 visitors and offers 500 local and international brands. It is a shopping and entertainment destination that offers a combination of retail therapy, cultural displays, interactive experiences and fine dining.
The entry fee for the Ramadan nights is AED 5 per person.
Event Timings
- During Ramadan: 05:00 pm to 01:00 am
- During Eid: 03:00 pm to 12:00 am
Location
Expo Centre Sharjah
4. Attend Cultural and Heritage Events
Ramadan in Sharjah goes beyond shopping, offering a variety of cultural events that showcase Emirati arts, crafts and traditional performances. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich UAE heritage through live performances, art displays and educational exhibits. These events reflect the nation’s history and customs.
5. Enjoy Iftar and Suhoor in Traditional Settings
Sharjah is also home to among the finest iftar and suhoor experiences. Restaurants and hotels have lavish buffet offerings of Middle Eastern, Emirati and international delicacies. Some of the best places to do iftar and suhoor in Sharjah are:
- Al Majaz Waterfront
- Al Noor Island
- Heritage Area
- Four Points by Sheraton Sharjah
- Iftar buffet at Arabic Restaurant
- MADO Restaurant and Cafe LLC
6. Engage in Charitable and Religious Activities
Ramadan is the month of giving and Sharjah offers plenty of chances for charity. Several organisations organise food donation drives, charity iftars and fundraising events. Moreover, mosques throughout the city organise special Taraweeh and Qiyam prayers, providing a spiritually rewarding atmosphere for devotees.
7. Visit Night Markets and Ramadan Tents
Sharjah is full of Ramadan tents and night markets. These markets sell everything from tasty street food to handcrafted items. Some of these options are:
Al Qasba Night Market
The Night Market in Al Qasba provides a vibrant nightlife with cultural events and traditional wear.
Souq Al Jubail
In Souq Al Jubail, you can get fresh fruits, vegetables and other Ramadan items to cook at home.
Practical Tips for Visitors During Ramadan in Sharjah
Visiting Sharjah during Ramadan can be a deeply enriching experience, but it’s important to be mindful of local customs and traditions to ensure a respectful and enjoyable stay. The emirate places a strong emphasis on cultural values, particularly during the holy month.
- Respect Fasting Hours: From dawn (Suhoor) until sunset (Iftar), Muslims fast from food and drink. Visitors are advised to avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours. Many hotels and designated restaurants provide discreet dining options for non-fasting guests during the day.
- Dress Modestly: Modest clothing is encouraged throughout Ramadan. Both men and women should opt for outfits that cover shoulders and knees when visiting public places such as malls, mosques and cultural areas. This is especially important in Sharjah, which is known for its strong cultural identity.
- Plan Your Day Around Evening Activities: Daily life in Sharjah slows down during the day and becomes lively after sunset. Shopping centres, restaurants and attractions often extend their hours late into the night. Planning sightseeing and dining for the evening allows visitors to fully enjoy the festive atmosphere.
- Be Mindful During Iftar Time: Traffic can be heavier shortly before sunset as people head home to break their fast. If you’re driving or taking a taxi, allow extra time around Iftar, or consider staying in one place to enjoy the calm and communal feel as the city pauses for the call to prayer.
- Understand Mosque Etiquette: Visitors are welcome to admire mosques from the outside and, in some cases, visit designated areas. If entering a mosque, dress conservatively, remove shoes when required, and maintain a quiet and respectful demeanour, especially during prayer times.
- Embrace the Cultural Experience: Ramadan is a wonderful opportunity to learn about Emirati culture. Accept invitations to Iftar if offered, explore night markets and heritage areas, and take part in cultural events to gain a deeper appreciation of the traditions and values observed during the holy month.
Transport & Parking During Ramadan in Sharjah
During Ramadan, transport services in Sharjah continue to operate smoothly, but visitors should expect slight changes in traffic flow and peak travel times. Understanding these patterns can help you plan your outings more comfortably.
Public buses and taxis generally run as usual throughout the holy month, making it easy to move around the city. However, roads can become noticeably busier in the hour leading up to Iftar (sunset), as residents travel home to break their fast. If possible, it’s best to avoid driving during this period or allow extra time for your journey.
Parking availability around mosques, popular dining areas and shopping centres may be limited in the evenings, particularly during weekends and near major Ramadan events. Malls and attractions often extend their opening hours late into the night, so arriving earlier in the evening can make parking easier.
If you’re visiting busy areas such as waterfronts, night markets or Ramadan tents, taxis and ride-hailing services are often the most convenient option, helping you avoid congestion and parking challenges. Planning travel around evening activities ensures a smoother and more enjoyable Ramadan experience in Sharjah.
Key Takeaways
Ramadan in Sharjah is a deeply enriching time that blends spiritual reflection with cultural celebration, offering visitors a truly authentic experience of the holy month. As the city comes alive after sunset, residents and travellers alike can enjoy bustling night markets, seasonal festivals, traditional iftar gatherings and meaningful cultural events. While daily routines shift during Ramadan, respecting local customs such as modest dress and public etiquette during fasting hours helps ensure a comfortable and rewarding visit. With transport services operating normally and careful planning around Iftar times, exploring the emirate remains easy. Whether you’re visiting for cultural discovery, community spirit or peaceful evenings, Sharjah presents a memorable and respectful way to experience Ramadan.
FAQs
During daylight hours in Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking in public are generally discouraged out of respect for those fasting. Many restaurants remain open but may offer screened or private dining areas until sunset.
Yes, most major malls, cultural attractions and shopping centres in Sharjah stay open throughout Ramadan, often with extended evening hours to accommodate fasting and festive activities. Always check specific timings before visiting.
Absolutely. While fasting is observed by Muslims, non-Muslim residents and visitors are welcome to experience cultural events, night markets, traditional iftar experiences and festivals. It’s respectful, however, to be mindful of local customs during daylight hours.
Public transport schedules and taxi availability are mostly unchanged, but traffic patterns may shift around iftar time and major events. Some services extend evening hours on busy nights — check local transport updates nearer the date.
