If you’ve spent a Ramadan in the UAE, you’ll know the sound. That deep, booming blast just before sunset.

And if you’re new to Dubai and hear it for the first time this year, don’t panic. It’s not fireworks or construction work. It’s the Ramadan Iftar cannon.

That single shot signals one thing: It’s time to end the fast. Two shots mark the official start of Ramadan.

For Ramadan 2026, Dubai’s much-loved tradition is returning across the city, giving residents the chance to experience it in their own neighbourhoods. Operated by Dubai Police, the cannon fires daily at sunset just before Maghrib prayer, drawing families, children, visitors and long-time residents who gather to witness a ritual that has been part of the emirate’s identity for decades.

The tradition dates back to the 1960s in Dubai, when mosque loudspeakers were not widely available, and the cannon served as a clear public signal that fasting had ended for the day. Today, even with prayer apps and digital reminders everywhere, the cannon remains one of the most iconic sounds of Ramadan in the city.

For many residents, it’s more than just a signal; it’s a moment. Phones come out to capture the event. Children cover their ears. Conversations pause. And across Dubai, people break their fast as soon as they hear the booming sound.

If you’ve never experienced it in person, Ramadan 2026 might be the year to tick it off your Dubai list.

Iftar Cannon Locations

This year, seven cannons will remain stationed at fixed spots throughout Ramadan:

• Al Khawaneej Majlis
• Burj Park, Downtown Dubai
• Damac Hills Main Park
• Expo City Dubai (Al Wasl Avenue area)
• Hatta Fort Hotel area
• Salt Camp, Kite Beach
• Uptown Mirdif (near main mall entrance)

Burj Park and Expo City Dubai typically draw the biggest crowds. Kite Beach is especially busy on weekends. Visitors are advised to arrive at least 20–30 minutes before sunset to secure a good viewing spot.

Looking for something quieter? Head to Hatta or Al Khawaneej for a more relaxed experience.

Roaming Iftar Cannons

In addition to the fixed sites, roaming cannons will rotate across neighbourhoods this year to give more residents the chance to witness the tradition close to home.

Roaming stops include:

• Al Barsha Pond Park
• Al Meydan Hotel area
• Al Satwa Grand Mosque
• Dubai Creek Harbour
• Dubai Festival City Waterfront
• Madinat Jumeirah
• Nad Al Sheba 1 (Al Ghaf Walk)
• Zabeel Park

Each location will host the cannon for a limited time before it moves to the next district.

Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin around February 19, subject to moon sighting. When that cannon echoes across Dubai’s skyline, it’s time to end the fast.