Image Credit : Gulf News
Dubai Police have unveiled 33 locations for this year’s Ramadan Iftar cannons, keeping alive one of the UAE’s most recognisable Ramadan traditions that signals the moment of sunset and the breaking of the fast.
The announcement was made during a press conference at Expo City Dubai, where senior officials outlined plans for six fixed cannons positioned at key landmarks, alongside two mobile cannons that will travel across Dubai and Hatta throughout the holy month.
Six fixed cannon sites
The six permanent cannon locations have been selected to ensure the ceremonial sound reaches communities across the city. These include:
- Expo City Dubai (main cannon site)
- Vida Creek Harbour
- Dubai Holding – Jumeirah Beach Residence
- Dubai Festival City
- Emaar – Burj Khalifa
- Damac – Damac Hills
Brigadier Ali Khalfan Al Mansouri, Director of the General Department of Community Happiness at Dubai Police, said the Iftar cannon remains a powerful symbol of unity.
“The Iftar cannon not only signals the time to end the fast, but also strengthens social bonds and brings people together in shared celebration,” he said.
Mobile cannons expand community reach
In addition to the fixed locations, two mobile cannons will operate during Ramadan. One will tour 16 locations across Dubai, including Meydan Hotel, Grand Sattwa Mosque, Zabeel Park, Jumeirah and Global Village, among other key community hubs.
For the first time, a mobile cannon will also be stationed in Hatta, visiting 11 residential and tourist locations, extending the tradition beyond central Dubai and into the mountainous enclave.
Vintage French cannons return
Lieutenant Colonel Abdullah Taresh Al Ameemi, Commander of the Ramadan Iftar Cannons, confirmed that two vintage French cannons dating back to the 1960s will once again be used. Considered part of the UAE’s cultural heritage, the cannons produce a 170-decibel ceremonial blast that can be heard up to 10 kilometres away.
The cannons will mark Iftar throughout Ramadan and will also be used during Eid celebrations.
Expo City’s Ramadan District returns
Afra Al Suwaidi, Senior Director of Strategy and Planning at Expo City Dubai, also announced the return of Expo City’s Ramadan District. The seasonal initiative will host cultural events and community gatherings, offering residents and visitors a space for reflection and celebration rooted in Emirati heritage.
With 33 cannon locations this year, Dubai Police aim to ensure that the centuries-old Ramadan tradition continues to resonate across neighbourhoods, reinforcing a shared sense of faith, culture and community.
