Renting a Car in Dubai During Ramadan: Tips and Insights

If you plan to rent a car in Dubai during the holy month of Ramadan, it’s important to understand how this period may affect your travel experience. Ramadan is a sacred time for Muslims, and it deeply influences daily life in Dubai, from operating hours and public etiquette to road traffic and available services. Whether you're a tourist or a resident, choosing to Rent a Car in Dubai during Ramadan can offer added flexibility and convenience, allowing you to move around the city with ease while respecting the local customs and culture.

This blog will guide you through essential tips, driving considerations, and key insights you need to know for a smooth car rental experience during Ramadan in Dubai.

Understanding Ramadan in Dubai

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is marked by fasting from dawn to dusk, spiritual reflection, and community gatherings. During this period, Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, and smoking in public while the sun is up. In Dubai, a multicultural city with a large expatriate population, these customs are observed with a balance of tradition and hospitality.

Tourists are welcome to explore and enjoy the city, but are expected to show cultural sensitivity. Restaurants and cafes may have closed curtains during the day, and many public entertainment venues operate at reduced hours. Despite these changes, Dubai remains vibrant and active, especially after sunset when the city comes alive with festive Iftar meals, night markets, and social events.

Why Rent a Car in Dubai During Ramadan?

Public transportation in Dubai operates on slightly altered schedules during Ramadan. Metro, buses, and taxis may be less frequent or more crowded, especially around Iftar time when people hurry home to break their fast. Renting a car can give you the independence to plan your day efficiently without relying on public systems that may be running on limited hours.

Additionally, road traffic patterns shift during Ramadan. Mornings and late afternoons are typically quieter, while roads become busier closer to Iftar and late at night. By renting a car, you gain more control over your timing and destinations, which is especially useful if you're planning to explore areas outside central Dubai or travel for business.

Tips for Renting a Car in Dubai During Ramadan

1. Book in Advance

Ramadan is a popular time for family gatherings, short holidays, and regional travel. As a result, car rental demand tends to increase, especially during the last 10 days of Ramadan and the Eid holidays. Booking your vehicle in advance not only ensures availability but also allows you to compare prices and secure the best deals.

2. Choose the Right Vehicle

Consider your itinerary and needs. If you're staying within the city and making short trips, a compact car or economy sedan might be ideal. However, if you plan on taking desert excursions, attending night events, or traveling in larger groups, an SUV or luxury car might be more suitable.

Most rental companies in Dubai offer flexible options with daily, weekly, and monthly rates. Some also provide Ramadan-specific deals, including discounts or complimentary add-ons like extra mileage, GPS, or baby seats.

3. Respect Local Etiquette

While inside your rental car, it might feel like your personal space—but it's still important to be mindful of local customs. Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking visibly in your vehicle during fasting hours, especially if you have the windows down or are parked in public areas. It's also wise to keep music at a moderate volume.

Dress modestly when exiting the vehicle in public spaces and be courteous when interacting with others on the road or at service counters.

Driving Conditions During Ramadan

1. Be Extra Cautious Around Iftar Time

One of the most important driving tips during Ramadan is to be extremely careful around Iftar (sunset) time. This is when many drivers are rushing to break their fast, leading to a noticeable increase in traffic accidents. Plan your trips to avoid being on the road 30 to 60 minutes before Iftar, if possible.

If you must drive during this period, stay alert, maintain safe distances, and avoid aggressive maneuvers. Many experienced locals and long-term residents prefer to pull over and wait it out until after Iftar to ensure a safer journey.

2. Night Traffic Can Be Busy

After sunset, the city transforms. Restaurants, malls, and entertainment venues fill up quickly. Traffic on major roads like Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Khail Road, and around major mosques can become congested. Make use of navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to avoid bottlenecks and plan alternate routes.

3. Watch for Pedestrians

During Ramadan nights, many people walk to nearby mosques or Iftar tents. Keep an eye out for increased pedestrian activity in residential areas, especially in neighborhoods with community mosques.

Rental Car Services and Operating Hours

Most car rental companies in Dubai adjust their customer service hours slightly during Ramadan. While booking online remains available 24/7, in-person service desks at airports, hotels, and commercial locations may open later and close earlier. Make sure to check the Ramadan timings of the rental company beforehand.

Many rental services offer delivery and pickup options, which can save you time and simplify the process. This is especially helpful if you’re observing the fast or have a tight schedule during the day.

Prepare for Eid al-Fitr

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is a time of celebration and travel. Rental car demand spikes sharply during this period, especially for road trips to other Emirates like Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, or Fujairah. Prices may rise due to increased demand, and availability can be limited.

If you plan to Rent a Car in Dubai for use during Eid, make sure to secure your booking well in advance and verify return policies, fuel requirements, and insurance coverage ahead of time.

Roadside Assistance and Emergencies

Although many rental cars in Dubai are well-maintained, it’s always good to be prepared. Make sure your rental package includes 24/7 roadside assistance and that you have access to emergency contact numbers. If you experience a breakdown or flat tire during fasting hours or at night, having reliable assistance is essential.

Keep your phone charged and have water, a snack, and a first-aid kit in the car—especially if you're driving long distances or planning a desert trip.

Fuel and Parking

Fuel stations in Dubai typically operate normal hours during Ramadan, though some may observe brief closures around Iftar. Fill your tank during off-peak hours to avoid long queues.

As for parking, public parking zones follow regular Dubai Municipality rules, though enforcement might be slightly relaxed in some areas after sunset. Still, always pay attention to signage and use the official RTA app or parking meters to avoid fines.

Conclusion

Renting a car in Dubai during Ramadan can be a rewarding experience when approached with cultural awareness and smart planning. With changing traffic patterns, modified service hours, and unique nighttime activities, a rental car gives you the flexibility to adapt to the rhythm of the city during this spiritual month.

From easier mobility to safer travels and a better understanding of local customs, the benefits of choosing to Rent a Car in Dubai during Ramadan are numerous. Just remember to book early, drive mindfully, and respect the traditions that make this season so special in the UAE.