With Ramadan on the horizon, Dubai Police has outlined its arrangements for the traditional Ramadan cannons across the city. In a recent announcement, they shared details about stationary cannons as well as a special mobile unit set to travel to various locations during the holy month.
Stationary Cannon Locations
The main cannon will be stationed at Expo Dubai, while six others will be placed at Damac Hills, Vida Creek Harbour, Burj Khalifa, Mirdif Downtown, Festival City, and Hatta Guest House. Each cannon will be operated by a team consisting of a sergeant, a traffic officer, and soldiers.
Adding a nostalgic touch, the crew at Expo City will dress in uniforms reminiscent of those worn by Dubai Police personnel in 1956.
Mobile Cannon Route
In an innovative move, a mobile cannon will visit 13 different areas throughout Ramadan. It will kick off its journey from Al Satwa Big Mosque and make stops at landmarks such as Burj Khalifa, Nad Al Sheba, Zabeel Park, and more, spending two days at each location. The cannon firing will be broadcast live on Dubai TV during iftar time daily.
Also read: UAE Ministry Announces Strict Penalties For Illegal Fundraising Activities During Ramadan
Ramadan Cannon Firing Schedule
The cannon will fire twice consecutively to mark the beginning of Ramadan, announce iftar every day, and sound twice after Eid prayers.
Prayer Timings
In conjunction with the cannon firings, Dubai Police also released the Ramadan prayer timetable for 2024. This timetable provides crucial information for residents and visitors to observe their daily prayers during the holy month.
Equipment Details
Dubai Police utilizes British-made PDR MK1L Cannons, crafted in 1945, for this tradition. Each cannon, weighing 25 pounds, emits a thunderous sound of up to 170 decibels, audible from a distance of 10km.
Additionally, vintage French cannons from the 1960s will join the tradition, stationed at Damac Hills and Festival City.
Entertainment and Events
Amidst these announcements, Amna Abulhoul, Executive Creative Director of Entertainment and Events, revealed the second edition of Hai Ramadan, showcasing Emirati traditions and heritage.
Hamed Bin Karam, Senior Director of Programmes at Sama Dubai TV Channel, promised an engaging experience for viewers with the Rahal cannon, featuring beloved cartoon characters like Al Mandous Carnival, aimed particularly at entertaining children.
With these preparations in place, Dubai is gearing up for Ramadan, embracing its cherished customs and traditions with unity and reverence. The annual cannon firings serve as a symbolic announcement of the holy month’s arrival, adding to the spiritual atmosphere embraced by residents and visitors alike.
Also read: Affordable Iftar Feasts To Enjoy In Dubai This Ramadan
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