Experience Dubai’s Iftar tradition with 33 cannon sites this Ramadan
Vintage French cannons add historic charm to celebrations during the holy month
DUBAI – Dubai Police on Thursday unveiled the locations for this year’s Ramadan Iftar cannons, continuing a cherished tradition that signals the end of the daily fast.
The announcement was made during a press conference at Expo City Dubai, attended by senior officials who highlighted the cultural and communal significance of the cannon firing.
This year, 33 sites will host the distinctive Iftar cannon, including six fixed landmarks, mobile units across Dubai and Hatta, and vintage French cannons adding historical flair.
Fixed cannons
Six fixed cannons will be placed at prominent landmarks to ensure the sound reaches communities across the city. The locations include:
- Expo City Dubai – Main cannon site
- Vida Creek Harbour Hotel
- Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) – Returning after nearly a decade
- Dubai Festival City – Under Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism supervision
- Burj Khalifa – Iconic city landmark
- Damac Hills – Supported by private partners including Emirates Airline and Dar Al Ber
Mobile units
For 2026, Dubai Police will deploy two mobile cannons – one in Dubai and one in Hatta – visiting multiple locations to expand the reach of the tradition.
Dubai mobile cannon stops include:
- Meydan Hotel
- Grand Sattwa Mosque
- Zabeel Park
- Jumeirah
- Atlantis Hotel
- Global Village
- Local neighbourhoods and schools
- Bab Al Shams Hotel
Additional key community areas
Hatta mobile cannon stops include:
- 11 residential and tourist locations across the area
Vintage French cannons
Adding a historic touch, two vintage French cannons from the 1960s will fire ceremonial shots during Ramadan and Eid. Capable of producing a 170-decibel sound audible from up to 10 kilometres away, these cannons are recognised as part of the UAE’s cultural heritage.
Ramadan District
Expo City Dubai will host its “Ramadan District” once again, offering an immersive experience celebrating Emirati heritage. Visitors can enjoy cultural events, community gatherings, and reflective spaces throughout the holy month.
Brigadier Ali Khalfan Al Mansouri, Director of the General Department of Community Happiness at Dubai Police, emphasised that the Iftar cannon represents more than a tradition. “It not only signals the time to end the fast but also brings the community together in celebration,” he said.