What To Know
- Sheikh Ayaz Houze, Imam and Khateeb at NGS, explained that Itikaf — especially observed in the last 10 days of Ramadan — is meant to draw believers closer to God through focused worship and reflection.
- In Ras Al Khaimah, farmhouse owner Saeed Ali Al Kindi shared that one of his properties has been fully booked for 10 days by a group focused solely on worship.
- Jason Kladidis, cluster general manager at Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort and Spa and DoubleTree by Hilton Seychelles Allamanda Resort and Spa, said Ramadan has increasingly become a time for meaningful travel.
As Ramadan 2026 approaches, not all UAE residents are planning elaborate iftar gatherings or late-night shopping trips. A growing number are choosing something far quieter — reflection, digital detox and intentional travel.
Instead of bustling city hotels or packed tourist schedules, these travellers are opting for island resorts, countryside farmhouses and spiritually focused journeys. The trend is increasingly being described as a “spiritual staycation,” where purpose outweighs sightseeing.
A Structured Spiritual Journey
For Dubai-based entrepreneur Ahmed Ali, Ramadan has followed a structured pattern for the past five years.
The first 10 days are spent with family in the UAE. The second 10 days are dedicated to reflection in a peaceful setting abroad. The final 10 days are reserved for Umrah in Makkah and Itikaf in Madinah.
Last year, Ali travelled to the Maldives during the second Ashra. He avoided excursions and tourist activities, choosing instead a simple routine: waking for Tahajjud, praying Fajr by the sea, reading the Quran daily, journaling after Asr and keeping his phone on airplane mode.
“It wasn’t a holiday,” he said. “It was about disconnecting from noise and reconnecting with purpose.”
This Ramadan, he plans to spend those 10 days in Seychelles.
“The destination is not the focus,” Ali added. “The intention is.”
Hospitality Sector Sees a Shift
Hospitality operators say this shift in Ramadan travel is becoming more noticeable.
Jason Kladidis, cluster general manager at Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort and Spa and DoubleTree by Hilton Seychelles Allamanda Resort and Spa, said Ramadan has increasingly become a time for meaningful travel.
“Ramadan is increasingly a time when travellers seek space to slow down, reflect and reconnect,” he said.
He noted that UAE residents are choosing destinations known for privacy, nature and calm surroundings. Hotels are also adapting by offering dining arrangements that respect fasting hours, making Muslim guests feel more comfortable.
“It becomes less about a traditional holiday and more about meaningful, restorative travel,” he added.
Local Reflection Retreats in the UAE
The trend is not limited to international travel.
Hotels in Dubai report that residents are choosing quieter, reflective staycations rather than indulgent escapes.
Jawad Saade, general manager of Hilton Dubai Creek Hotel and Residences, said Ramadan changes the purpose of travel.
“We see many UAE residents choosing to stay closer to home, not for indulgence, but for reflection, rest and reconnection,” he said. “A local staycation during this period allows guests to slow down and embrace the spiritual rhythm of the month.”
In Ras Al Khaimah, farmhouse owner Saeed Ali Al Kindi shared that one of his properties has been fully booked for 10 days by a group focused solely on worship.
“They asked about prayer space first,” he said.
The group plans to pray in congregation, prepare suhoor and iftar together and limit outside distractions. There were no entertainment requests — only privacy and quiet.
Mental Health Benefits of Digital Detox During Ramadan
Mental health experts say these intentional breaks can provide measurable psychological benefits.
Dr Amir Javaid, consultant psychiatrist at Burjeel Medical City, explained that stepping away from digital noise and daily pressures helps the brain exit constant stress mode.
“Cortisol levels stabilise, attention improves and emotional regulation strengthens,” he said. “This mental slowing supports clarity and calm.”
He added that even short spiritual retreats can reduce burnout and decision fatigue. Changing environment and daily rhythm signals safety to the brain, allowing it to reset.
Exposure to nature — whether open landscapes, water or quiet settings — further enhances these effects.
“In fast-paced cities, intentional silence is increasingly becoming a necessity rather than a luxury,” Dr Javaid noted.
Rooted in Islamic Tradition
Islamic scholars emphasise that stepping away for reflection is deeply rooted in tradition.
Sheikh Ayaz Houze, Imam and Khateeb at NGS, explained that Itikaf — especially observed in the last 10 days of Ramadan — is meant to draw believers closer to God through focused worship and reflection.
“Reducing distractions allows the heart to focus and strengthens taqwa,” he said.
While formal Itikaf takes place in mosques, temporary withdrawal for worship aligns with the spirit of Ramadan when done sincerely.
Continued Demand for Umrah Travel
For many residents, the most traditional spiritual journey remains Umrah.
Qaiser Mahmood of Asaa Tours and Travels said thousands of UAE residents travel to Makkah and Madinah during Ramadan.
“Some opt for short two- or three-day trips, while others prefer to spend the last 10 to 15 days in worship, especially during the final Ashra,” he said.
Demand typically rises significantly as the final 10 nights approach.
