DUBAI — As Ramadan approaches, residents and visitors in Dubai continue to experience a centuries-old tradition: announcing iftar with cannon fire. While many Pakistani cities such as Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad have seen the pre-dawn drumbeats of sehri fade from urban life, Dubai has maintained its historic ritual throughout the holy month.
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Every evening during Ramadan, cannon blasts from more than 17 locations across the emirate signal the time to break the fast. Prominent sites include Burj Khalifa Park, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Damac Hills, Expo City Dubai (Al Wasl Plaza), Dubai Festival City, and Creek Harbour. The resonant roar draws both locals and tourists, who pause in a shared moment of faith and community, blending modern city life with centuries-old heritage.
“This cannon firing is more than just a signal for iftar,” a Dubai cultural official said. “It connects generations, preserves traditions, and celebrates the holy month with unity and pride.”
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The ritual also features in Eid celebrations, with two cannon rounds fired after morning prayers to mark the festival and the conclusion of Ramadan. Authorities assure the public that the firing is conducted safely, highlighting the balance between cultural preservation and urban security.
For Pakistanis, whose cities have largely lost the drumbeat tradition of sehri, Dubai’s cannon blasts serve as a vivid example of how modern urban centres can maintain cultural customs. Observers note that such practices not only honor religious observances but also reinforce communal identity, passing heritage to younger generations amid rapidly modernising cityscapes.
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The continuity of this tradition underscores Dubai’s commitment to keeping historical and cultural practices alive, offering a striking contrast to urban areas where similar customs have gradually disappeared.