Boom of Iftar cannons echoes through Dubai during Ramadan
TDT | Agencies
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As the sun dips below the horizon during Ramadan, the thunderous boom of iftar cannons reverberates across Dubai, signaling to Muslims that it is time to break their daily fast. This centuries-old tradition, known locally as “midfa al iftar,” continues to hold deep cultural significance in the United Arab Emirates, blending history with modern life.
For many in Dubai, the sound of the iftar cannon remains an iconic part of their Ramadan experience, reminding them not only of the time to break their fast but also of the city’s enduring cultural traditions.
An Ancient Practice With Deep Roots
The tradition of firing cannons to mark the end of the daily fast is believed to have originated in 10th-century Egypt. In the absence of modern technology, the cannon’s loud boom was a practical way to inform communities of iftar time. The practice arrived in Dubai in the 1960s, when the city was still developing and relied on the cannon as an essential community service before the advent of loudspeaker systems in mosques.
Today, the ritual continues to be a beloved custom, maintained to honor the country’s cultural heritage. In Dubai, the cannon is fired from key locations, including the area near Burj Khalifa, using a replica of the original antique artillery piece that once performed the same duty decades ago.
A Symbol of Unity in a Diverse City
Beyond its functional origins, the iftar cannon has evolved into a symbol of unity and communal spirit. In a city known for its diverse population, the ceremonial firing brings together people from various cultural backgrounds and religious beliefs, fostering a sense of collective celebration. Families and visitors alike gather near cannon sites, sharing the moment as they break their fast and reflect on the spirit of Ramadan.
Dubai Police now oversee the ceremonial firing at several designated locations across the emirate. In addition to the iconic Burj Khalifa site, cannons are also stationed at prayer grounds in areas like Al Mankhool and Al Baraha. Each evening, a single cannon shot marks the end of the fast, while two consecutive shots announce the beginning of Ramadan. When the month concludes with the celebration of Eid Al Fitr, the cannon fires twice to herald the festival’s arrival and twice more on the morning of Eid.
Preserving Heritage Amid Modernization
Despite the technological advances of the modern age, the iftar cannon remains a cherished fixture during Ramadan. While most Muslims in Dubai now rely on mosque loudspeakers broadcasting the call to prayer – known as the “adhan” – to signal iftar time, the cannon’s blast serves as a cultural touchstone. It connects Dubai’s fast-paced, modern landscape with its rich and enduring traditions.
For residents and visitors, the sound of the iftar cannon is more than just an announcement—it is a reminder of Dubai’s ability to embrace both heritage and progress, offering a sense of community in one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities.
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