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Ramadan 2026 in UAE: Shorter winter fasting hours, possible 3-Day Eid weekend

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Good news for anyone already counting down to Ramadan, this year’s holy month is set to fall during the UAE’s winter season, making fasting more comfortable than usual.

According to astronomers, Ramadan will arrive toward the end of winter and the start of early spring, bringing milder temperatures, cooler evenings, and shorter fasting hours, expected to be around 30 minutes shorter than Ramadan 2025, making it one of the more comfortable Ramadans in recent years.

When Is Ramadan Likely to Start?

With Shaaban officially beginning on January 20, astronomers can now predict Ramadan’s timing more accurately. The UAE will look for the Ramadan crescent moon on February 17, though experts say it’s unlikely to be sighted that night.

The best chance to spot the crescent is expected on February 18, which would mean Ramadan begins on February 19. This date also aligns with the official calendar issued by Awqaf, adding weight to the prediction.

Could Eid Al Fitr be a Long Weekend?

Once Ramadan ends, all eyes will turn to the Shawwal moon. Astronomers say the most likely date to sight the Shawwal crescent is March 19, which would place Eid Al Fitr on Friday, March 20.

If confirmed, Eid holidays would run from March 20 to March 22, giving many residents a three-day weekend, a pretty great way to wrap up the holy month.

What About the Weather, Fasting Hours?

Because Ramadan falls during a seasonal transition this year, fasting should be more manageable. Expect pleasant evenings, cooler nights, and daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-20s°C early in the month, rising to the high-20s°C toward the end.

Iftar, Suhoor timings

Shorter fasting days will also mean earlier Iftar times, especially at the start of Ramadan. In Dubai, sunset, and Iftar, is expected to be around 6.15pm at the beginning of the month, moving to approximately 6.23pm by mid-Ramadan and 6.30pm toward the end. Abu Dhabi’s Iftar timings will be slightly later, with sunset expected around 6.19pm at the start, 6.26pm midway through the month, and 6.33pm by the final days.

As for Suhoor, the pre-dawn meal is expected to end between 5.00am and 5.20am during the early days of Ramadan, gradually shifting as the month progresses.

A winter Ramadan, shorter fasting hours, and the possibility of a long Eid weekend, this year’s holy month is shaping up to be a gentler one.

Now we wait for the sighting of the Ramadan moon. Last year, the UAE Council for Fatwa used AI-powered drones to sight the crescent marking the beginning of the holy month.

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

Crime

Dubai Police warns residents of fraudsters impersonating ‘crisis management’ officials

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Dubai Police have detected attempts by fraudsters exploiting recent developments by impersonating individuals claiming to be affiliated with a so-called “Dubai Crisis Management” department and falsely presenting links to the police force.

Authorities said the scammers are attempting to unlawfully obtain sensitive personal information, including UAE Pass credentials and Emirates ID details.

“Members of the public are strongly urged not to share personal or banking information with any unverified party and to report any suspected fraudulent activity immediately through official channels,” Dubai Police said in a post on social media platform X.

Attempt to access bank accounts

Dubai Police warned that sharing such information could allow criminals to conduct SIM swap operations, a method that enables fraudsters to take control of a victim’s mobile number and gain unauthorised access to banking applications and financial accounts.

Officials stressed that Dubai Police never request confidential information, verification codes, passwords or banking details via phone calls or text messages.

Residents are strongly advised:

  • Not to share personal or banking information with unknown callers
  • Not to disclose UAE Pass login details or verification codes
  • To verify any suspicious communication through official channels

Dubai Police urged the public to report suspicious activity immediately by calling 901 or through the official eCrime platform.

Authorities reiterated that vigilance and awareness remain the strongest defence against fraud attempts.









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NCEMA chairman reaffirms the UAE’s resilience, praises swift national response and awareness shown by citizens and residents

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The past two days have demonstrated the effectiveness of the UAE’s coordinated national response system, with authorities acting swiftly and in full alignment with established readiness standards.

Ali Saeed Al Neyadi, Chairman of the National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA), said developments were addressed with a high degree of professionalism and seamless coordination across all relevant entities.

“Over the past two days, the UAE has witnessed a coordinated national response involving all relevant authorities,” Al Neyadi said, noting that actions were taken under approved national frameworks and precise operational procedures.

Coordinated national response activated

Al Neyadi confirmed that the National Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management framework was activated from the outset, with operational readiness levels elevated based on continuous and comprehensive risk assessments.

He said these measures ensured:

  • Protection of lives
  • Safeguarding of national assets
  • Uninterrupted continuity of essential services

“What has been achieved reflects sustained institutional investment in preparedness, proactive planning, joint national exercises, and the development of resilient capabilities designed to respond effectively to a range of scenarios,” he added.

Field teams recognised for professionalism

The NCEMA Chairman recognised field teams who carried out their duties with professionalism and a strong sense of national responsibility.

Their efforts, he noted, reflected:

  • High levels of preparedness
  • Disciplined coordination
  • Clearly defined operational roles

He said the response reaffirmed the national system’s capability to act swiftly and in an organised manner under approved plans and precise procedures.

Community awareness praised

Al Neyadi also acknowledged the awareness and commitment shown by citizens and residents.

“The cohesion, trust and cooperation demonstrated by the community reflect the spirit of responsibility that characterises the UAE,” he said.

He added that the alignment between institutions and society remains a cornerstone of national preparedness and strengthens the country’s ability to navigate challenges with confidence and composure.

Preparedness at the highest levels

“This phase has once again demonstrated that the UAE possesses a robust and mature national readiness system operating under a clear governance framework and coordinated response structure at the highest levels,” he said.

Authorities, he added, continue to monitor developments around the clock, conduct ongoing assessments and implement necessary measures to maintain the highest levels of preparedness.

“The UAE is confident in emerging from this period stronger and more resilient, supported by the vision of its leadership, the strength of its institutions, and the awareness of its society.”

Public urged to rely on official sources

In closing, Al Neyadi emphasised that the safety, security and stability of the community remain an absolute national priority.

He urged the public to:

  • Adhere to official guidance
  • Rely exclusively on approved sources for information
  • Refrain from sharing unverified content

Authorities will continue to communicate updates transparently as developments unfold, he said.

Source: Wam









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From accommodation, rebooking to hot meals: How the UAE is caring for stranded travellers during flight disruptions

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Thousands of international visitors affected by temporary airspace closures in the UAE are receiving coordinated support from authorities, airlines and hotels as the country prioritises safety and passenger welfare.

While flight operations remain suspended due to regional developments, UAE authorities have activated contingency plans to ensure travellers are accommodated, informed and assisted during the disruption.

The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) confirmed that passenger safety remains the highest priority, with close coordination between airports, airlines and government entities to manage the evolving situation.

Accommodation and hospitality support 

In a move welcomed by visitors, authorities confirmed that the UAE is covering hosting and accommodation costs for affected transit passengers.

Over 20,000 travellers have already been assisted through integrated response measures, including:

  • Temporary accommodation
  • Meals and refreshments
  • Rebooking coordination
  • Rerouting support where possible

Hotels in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have been directed to extend stays for guests unable to depart due to the temporary closures. Establishments have been instructed to prioritise guest welfare and ensure visitors are not asked to vacate rooms under exceptional circumstances.

The Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi, has issued a circular to hotels requesting that guests unable to depart due to circumstances beyond their control be allowed to extend their stay, with the cost of the extension covered by DCT Abu Dhabi.

Airlines offer flexible travel options

Major UAE carriers, including Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai and Air Arabia, have introduced flexible rebooking and refund policies to support affected passengers.

International airlines such as Air India, Air India Express, and IndiGo have also adjusted schedules and offered flexibility.

Travellers are being encouraged to monitor official airline websites and mobile apps for real-time updates.

Tourism and public services operating normally

Despite air travel disruptions, daily life across the UAE continues as normal.

Malls, beaches, theme parks and cultural attractions remain open and operational. Public services are functioning smoothly, and standard safety protocols remain in place.

Authorities have reassured residents and visitors that the situation is being closely monitored and managed with a strong focus on safety and stability.

Clear guidance and communication

Government entities, including the UAE Ministry of Interior and the General Civil Aviation Authority, are providing regular updates through official channels to ensure accurate information reaches the public.

Passengers have been advised not to proceed to airports without confirming their flight status, as airlines continue to communicate directly with affected travellers.

Coordinated response

Officials described the response as a whole-of-government effort aimed at minimising inconvenience while maintaining the highest safety standards.

While the situation remains dynamic and dependent on regional developments, authorities have reiterated their commitment to restoring normal operations as soon as conditions permit.

For now, stranded tourists are being supported through structured contingency plans,  underscoring the UAE’s emphasis on preparedness, coordination and visitor welfare.

(Photo courtesy: Abu Dhabi News)









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