Ramadan

What to expect from Holy Month
Word to the wise: For those on a budget, Ramadan can be a great time to visit the capital. Hotel prices drop and stores slash their prices.

Navigating the capital during the holy month for Muslims can be a bit tricky. Many restaurants and fast-food outlets stop serving during the day, nightclubs close completely and live music ceases all together. During the day, smoking, playing music, and eating and drinking anything—even water—in public is prohibited and can incur fines. During this time, most visitors are advised to eat and rehydrate in their hotel rooms, designated restaurants, or even public toilets.

Though daytime activities become extremely limited at this time of year, evenings are lively, as people head to hotel-run iftars to break their fasts. The dates of Ramadan shift by about a week each year, so check when it falls before booking your trip.