As the sun begins to set over Dubai, the thunderous boom of a cannon can be heard, signaling the end of the day’s fast. Before Maghrib (sunset) prayers each day, visitors and residents can witness this tradition and experience a snippet of times gone by.

Dubai’s Ramadan cannon story began in the 1960s – although the earliest mentions of such a tradition date back to 10th Century Egypt – and now, in an age where we can download Ramadan apps on our smartphones with a tap of our fingers, Dubai Police continue to uphold this tradition in all its glory. This year, Dubai Police has joined forces with Jumeirah, placing an iconic cannon on Fort Island at Madinat Jumeirah for the entire Holy Month of Ramadan.

At Fort Island during the Holy Month of Ramadan, a cannon launch team can be seen wearing the same uniform worn by the first Dubai Police cannon launch team all those years ago. Two bullets were fired to mark the start of the holy month and another two will be fired to celebrate Eid Al Fitr, the end of fasting and a joyous time of feast, prayer and festivities with loved ones.

Witness the cannon and experience the true delight of the season at Madinat Jumeirah, where you’ll find unparalleled Iftar and Sahoor moments this Ramadan. To watch the video check out Jumeirah’s Instagram channel.