What To Know
- Historically used to announce the time to break the fast, it remains a symbolic and cultural highlight of the holy month in the UAE.
- The initiative allows families, visitors and children to experience a historic Ramadan custom that signals the breaking of the fast at sunset.
- As Ramadan 2026 begins, Dubai residents can once again witness one of the UAE’s most cherished traditions — the firing of the Ramadan cannon.
As Ramadan 2026 begins, Dubai residents can once again witness one of the UAE’s most cherished traditions — the firing of the Ramadan cannon. This year, Dubai Police has rolled out the mobile cannon, known as Al Rahal, travelling across the emirate to bring communities together at iftar time.
The initiative allows families, visitors and children to experience a historic Ramadan custom that signals the breaking of the fast at sunset.
Where Did the Mobile Cannon Start?
The Al Rahal mobile cannon began its journey on the first and second days of Ramadan at Zabeel Park.
It then moved to Umm Suqeim Majlis for the following two days, continuing its tour across various districts in Dubai.
In Hatta, the cannon also made special appearances over the first three days of Ramadan, starting at Hatta Fort Roundabout.
Full List of Mobile Cannon Locations for Ramadan 2026
Throughout the holy month, the mobile cannon will visit 17 different locations across Dubai in the following order:
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Zabeel Park
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Umm Suqeim Majlis
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JBR
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Bab Al Shams Hotel
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Al Meydan Hotel
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Global Village
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Atlantis Hotel
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Nad Al Sheba Majlis
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Margham
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Burj Khalifa
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Lehbab
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Al Khawaneej Majlis
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Marsa Boulevard
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Al Warqa
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Vida Creek Harbour
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Al Barsha Park
Residents are encouraged to arrive early before sunset to secure a good viewing spot, especially at popular locations such as JBR and Burj Khalifa.
Permanent Ramadan Cannon Locations in Dubai
In addition to the travelling cannon, six stationary cannons will be positioned throughout Ramadan 2026 at key locations across the emirate:
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JBR
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Burj Khalifa
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DAMAC Hills
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Expo City Dubai (Al Wasl Plaza)
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Dubai Festival City
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Vida Creek Harbour Hotel
These fixed cannons will fire daily at sunset to mark iftar.
A Cherished Ramadan Tradition
The Ramadan cannon is a long-standing Arab and Islamic tradition that dates back centuries. Historically used to announce the time to break the fast, it remains a symbolic and cultural highlight of the holy month in the UAE.
Dubai Police continues to emphasise the importance of preserving this heritage, ensuring that new generations can experience the spirit of Ramadan through community gatherings and shared moments at sunset.
If you’re planning your Ramadan evenings in Dubai, catching the Al Rahal mobile cannon is one tradition worth adding to your list.
Cover Image: Dubai Police/Facebook
