If you have lived in Dubai long enough, you know the sound. That single blast at sunset with sharp, powerful sound is almost impossible to miss. What does it signify? Well, it’s time for Iftar!. Dubai will once again fire its Ramadan 2026 iftar cannons across the city, keeping alive one of the emirate’s most loved traditions.
Dubai’s Iftar Cannon Tradition Returns For Ramadan 2026
According to a report by Travels Dubai, 7 fixed cannon sites and several roaming locations will host daily public viewings throughout Ramadan.
Operated by Dubai Police, the cannon firing draws crowds every evening just before Maghrib prayer. Families gather to break their fast together while phones rise out of pockets to catch a glimpse and make memories.
7 Fixed Iftar Cannon Locations In Dubai
For Ramadan 2026, seven cannons will remain stationed at the same spots throughout the month
Here is the full list:
- 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 the main mall entrance
Burj Park and Expo City Dubai usually attract the largest crowds. Expect people to arrive at least half an hour early to secure a good viewing spot. Kite Beach also fills up fast, especially on weekends.
If you prefer something less crowded, Hatta or Al Khawaneej should be your preferred spot.
Roaming Cannons Across Community Districts
Roaming cannons will rotate across different neighbourhoods in Dubai. This gives more residents the chance to witness the firing without travelling far.
This year’s roaming locations 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
Dubai Police will move the cannon between these areas during Ramadan. Each stop hosts it for a limited period before it shifts to the next location.
The History Behind Midfa Al Iftar
The iftar cannon, known locally as Midfa Al Iftar, traces the tradition back to 10th-century Egypt. In that era, they used cannons to signal sunset during Ramadan.
In Dubai, the practice began in the 1960s. Back then, mosque loudspeaker systems were not widely available, so the cannon served as a clear public signal that it was time to break the fast.
Today, the cannons still in use are vintage British-made 25-pounder models, believed to date back to around 1945. Authorities fire them using blank cartridges under strict supervision. The blast can reach up to 170 decibels and travel nearly 10 kilometres under the right conditions.
Also Read: 8 Best Iftars In Abu Dhabi Worth Leaving Home For
What Visitors Should Know Before Going
Watching the cannon firing is completely free. No, you don’t need registration or tickets to watch.
Authorities advise arriving 20 to 30 minutes before sunset to grab empty spots for better views. Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin around February 18, depending on moon sighting.
Cannons fire daily at sunset throughout Ramadan. They also fire twice to mark the official start of the holy month.
And when that blast rings out across Dubai’s skyline, everyone knows what time it is.
Cover Image Courtesy: Visit Dubai/X
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