Ramadan etiquette for non-Muslim expats — practical guide
Dec 14, 2025Dubai · Experience date Dec 24, 2025
During Ramadan (dates vary each year, roughly 9 April 2024): no eating, drinking, or smoking in public between sunrise and sunset. This applies to non-Muslims too. Restaurants are open but hide their seating or have curtained areas. After sunset (Iftar): cities come alive, massive communal meals, generous hospitality. Ramadan hours: government offices 9am-2pm, some businesses limited hours. Dress more conservatively. Playing loud music in public is frowned upon. Most non-Muslim expats find Ramadan a genuinely interesting cultural experience once they understand it.
Contributor: Tom Fletcher Dubai Frame and free cultural attractions
Dec 13, 2025Dubai · Experience date Feb 19, 2026
Best value attractions: Dubai Frame (AED 50, excellent views, 2 hours), Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (free walking, authentic old Dubai), Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort (AED 3, genuinely good), Alserkal Avenue contemporary art (free, Friday evening openings). Worth the money: Burj Khalifa At the Top (AED 135-500 depending on level and timing — book online for cheaper rates). Skip: Atlantis water park (AED 400+), Ski Dubai is fun but AED 300. Desert safari: worth doing once (AED 150-300 pp).
Contributor: Maria Santos Renewing residency visa — timeline you need to know
Nov 13, 2025Dubai · Experience date Apr 11, 2026
Employment visa valid 2-3 years from issue date. Renewal: employer initiates process through MOHRE at least 1 month before expiry. Steps: medical test, Emirates ID renewal, visa stamping. Cost: AED 2,000-3,000 (employer typically pays). If visa expires: 30-day grace period, then AED 200/day overstay fine. Never let visa expire without starting renewal — immigration takes it seriously. If changing jobs: new employer handles visa cancellation and re-sponsorship (gap of up to 30 days allowed).
Contributor: Amira Hassan 