Relaxed licensing rules for Dubai restaurants during the day in Ramadan

Restaurants and bars in Dubai will offer alcohol and food during the day for the third year in a row when the holy month of Ramadan begins in May, according to The National.

Dubai Tourism's chief executive Issam Kazim told the newspaper that there is a "need to 'strike the balance' to ensure residents and tourists are catered for while ensuring there is respect given to those fasting and observing the Holy Month."

However, outlets are warned to keep the service of food and drinks discreet and no live entertainment.

This relaxed licensing rules was tested in 2016 with a small number of bars and hotels able to apply for permission to open in daytime. 

This year Ramadan is expected to fall from Tuesday May 15 to Thursday June 14 subject to official confirmation.