Every year during the Holy Month of Ramadan in Dubai, cannons are fired every day at sunset to announce iftar. The Dubai Police have been entrusted with the responsibility of firing these special cannons ever since the 1960s in UAE. One shot is fired to mark the end of daily fasting during the Holy Month of Ramadan, while two shots are fired to announce the start of Ramadan and the beginning of Eid Al-Fitr.
The cannons use blank cartridges so it’s safe if you want to head on over to check it out, though you may want to plug your ears. It’s a unique and memorable occasion which always draws in plenty of residents and visitors who want to witness the deafening boom of the cannon fire.
In 2022, Dubai Police fired a single shot from 11 locations during Ramadan, while similar events also took place in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Umm Al Quwain.
The cannons have a sound range of 170 decibels, with the firing heard as far as 10 kilometres away.
The firing of cannons during Ramadan is a long-standing tradition in the UAE and is considered an important part of the Holy Month’s customs.
It is a way of marking the end of a day of fasting and prayer and signaling the start of the evening’s meal. The cannon firing is also a way of bringing communities together and celebrating the spirit of the Holy Month.
With Expo City Dubai hosting the firing of the Ramadan cannons this year, the event is expected to draw crowds from around the region and is seen as a way of promoting the customs and traditions of the UAE.
As the UAE prepares for the Holy Month of Ramadan, the firing of cannons is just one of many customs and traditions that will be observed.
From fasting during daylight hours to performing acts of charity and attending religious services, the Holy Month is a time of reflection, community, and spiritual renewal for Muslims around the world.
The firing of Ramadan cannons is a unique and important part of this tradition and one that is eagerly anticipated by people across the UAE.
Where to find Ramadan cannons in Dubai this year
Expo City Dubai
Been a while since you’ve seen Expo City Dubai? You’ll definitely want to visit during the Holy Month, as Ramadan cannons will be fired every day at sunset. Dubai Police have stated that this will be the ‘main cannon’ of the year. The Ramadan cannon will be located at Al Wasl Avenue at the Expo City Dubai.
Burj Khalifa
The Ramadan cannons return to Burj Khalifa. It may just be one of the most popular spots to witness the Ramadan cannon, so if you want a good view, head on over early. It takes place right in from the stunning tower next to Burj Park.
Dubai Festival City
People usually flock to Dubai Festival City to go shopping at the mall, dine at one of the very many restaurants or catch the cool IMAGINE show. Now, visitors will also have a chance to see the Ramadan cannons. It most likely will take place next to the promenade at the space which until recently was occupied by the outdoor market, Vibes by The Bay but look out for signs when you’re at the venue.
Hatta Guest House
Want a cool unique snap of the Ramadan cannons? Head to Hatta Guest House where you will get picturesque views as the backdrop of your Ramadan cannon photos. Make a day of it and explore the mountainous city with our Hatta guide here.
Madinat Jumeirah
This gorgeous Arabian citadel-inspired mini-city is home to hotels, an ornate souq, and beachfront hotspots, and during the Holy Month, it will be home to a Ramadan cannon. In the past, the cannon was located on Fort Island – the heart of Madinat Jumeirah surrounded by waterways but we are awaiting confirmation of the location this year.
