As the UAE prepares for the anticipated commencement of Ramadan around February 19, 2026, retail markets in Dubai and Sharjah are witnessing significant increases in consumer demand for religious and spiritual products. Retailers report unprecedented early shopping activity as residents seek both traditional devotional items and modern technological solutions to enhance their spiritual practices during the holy month.
Market observations reveal seven key products experiencing remarkable demand surges:
Traditional tasbeeh beads remain the most sought-after item, with customers selecting from various materials including wood, stone, and crystal. Abdul Qadir of Blue Market in Al Ras noted that many purchasers express intentions to increase their daily zikr (remembrance of God) during Ramadan.
Digital innovation has entered the spiritual sphere with electronic zikr rings gaining substantial popularity, particularly among younger demographics. Yousuf Salimi, an electronics retailer in Sabkha, highlighted the devices’ discretion and portability as key selling points for those seeking to maintain devotional practices throughout daily activities.
Quranic literature sales have accelerated significantly, with customers purchasing new copies in Arabic, English, and Urdu translations. Majeed of Ashar Book Trading in Sharjah reported increased interest in simplified Quranic storybooks that make Islamic teachings more accessible. Retailers note many purchases are intended as gifts or donations to mosques and relatives.
Prayer mat sales have expanded beyond personal use to include bulk purchases for charitable distribution. Saleem Khan from Sharjah’s Industrial Area 6 noted orders of 10-50 mats from donors seeking to facilitate prayers for others during Taraweeh and home worship.
Traditional prayer attire including skullcaps, thobes, prayer abayas, and scarves are experiencing renewed interest as residents seek fresh garments for Ramadan observances. Ameen Kondarnath of a Rolla cloth trading shop observed that customers want to ‘feel fresh’ for enhanced spiritual engagement.
Digital adhan clocks that provide prayer time reminders are seeing increased adoption, particularly among families seeking to maintain prayer schedules, especially for dawn (Fajr) and sunset (Maghrib) prayers.
Date merchants report advanced orders for both consumption and community distribution during iftar meals. Abdul Jabbar of Al Jubail Market in Sharjah noted customers ordering cartons and smaller packets intended for distribution to relatives, friends, colleagues, and neighbors.
The comprehensive market activity demonstrates how spiritual preparation intertwines with commercial patterns as UAE residents combine traditional religious practices with modern convenience to enhance their Ramadan experience.