Ramadan 2025 in UAE: Sharjah eateries' new guidelines announced

Sharjah City Municipality has started giving out special permits for food preparation, sales, and food display during Ramadan. These permits allow food establishments to prepare and sell food during daylight hours and display food outside their shops before Iftar.

Based on astronomical calculations, Ramadan 2025 is expected to begin on Saturday, March 1. However, the exact date will be confirmed only after the moon is sighted. The holy month is predicted to last for 30 days.

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The municipality announced the new permit process through a social media post. The permits come with certain conditions to ensure safety, cleanliness, and smooth operations. Food businesses like restaurants, cafeterias, sweet shops, bakeries, and food outlets in shopping malls can apply for these permits.

The permit for food preparation and sales allows businesses to prepare and sell food during fasting hours. Food preparation must happen only in the kitchen; preparing food elsewhere is not allowed. In-house dining is strictly prohibited, so food should only be served for takeaway or delivery. The fee for this permit is Dh 3,000.

The permit for displaying food before Iftar is for businesses that want to display food on the sidewalk before Iftar. Food can be displayed only on sidewalks made of proper pavement, and sandy areas cannot be used. The food should be placed in non-corrosive metal containers and enclosed in a glass box that is at least 100 cm high. The glass box must have a sliding or hinged door for easy access and protection. All displayed food should be covered with aluminum foil or clear plastic that is safe for food. The food must be stored at the right temperature to maintain its quality, and chilled or frozen food is not allowed for display. The permit fee for displaying food is Dh 500.

To make it convenient for businesses, the municipality has set up several service centers where permits can be obtained. These centers include the Municipal Drawing Center in Al Nasiriyah, Tasareeh Center, Al Raqam Wahed Center, Municipality 24 Center, Al Saqr Center, Al Rolla Center, Al Khalidiya Center, Al Surah and Al Diqah Center, Saif Center, Al Malomat Center, Al Saada Center, and Tawjeeh Center. Business owners are encouraged to apply early to avoid last-minute rushes and ensure they have the proper permits in place before Ramadan starts.

The municipality has emphasized that all establishments must strictly follow these rules to maintain hygiene and ensure the safety of customers. Inspections will be conducted regularly to check compliance with the guidelines. Sharjah City Municipality's new guidelines aim to maintain food safety while allowing residents and businesses to prepare for Ramadan smoothly. These measures will help both customers and food vendors enjoy the holy month while ensuring food is prepared and served safely and hygienically.