Photos: First day of Ramadan 2023 in the UAE

Thursday, March 23, marked the first day of Ramadan for Muslims around the globe. The holy month marks a time for prayer, self-sacrifice, introspection, empathy, and family for believers. Above, people enjoy their Iftar meals at the Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque in Dubai.

Dubai police personnel firing the cannon to announce the Iftar time on the first day of Ramadan at Burj park in Dubai.

Shahad AlFarhan and Karima AlKaisi break their fast together during Iftar at their house in Dubai.

Residents offering prayers at Al Noor mosque in Sharjah.

Visitors gather to watch as Dubai police personnel prepare to fire the cannon to announce Iftar time on the first day of Holy month of Ramadan at Burj park in Dubai.

Residents offering prayers at Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque in Dubai.

A vendor sells traditional sweets in Dubai.

Residents shop at an hypermarket in Dubai.

Residents buying snacks for Iftar in Satwa.

Residents shop for Iftar at Lulu Hyper Market in Al Qusais, Dubai.

Iftar meals at the Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque in Dubai.

Ramadan in the UAE is a time when residents and visitors have the opportunity to experience various events, shopping promotions and prizes, as well as major discounts at shopping malls like the Mall of the Emirates, seen here decorated for the occasion.

Abu Dhabi streets have been bedecked with 5,147 ornaments and lights to celebrate Ramadan.