The UAE is an Islamic country. Islam is more than the national religion; it prescribes a way of life and governs political, legal, and social behaviour. Islam means submission to Allah's will. It organizes an orderly system for both society and the individual. The rules of Islam can be found in the holy book, the Koran, which is believed to have been revealed by Allah to his Prophet Mohammed. The Koran is considered the direct word of God and is therefore believed to be infallible.

Prayer is a ritual and takes some time to prepare for by washing the feet and so on. Prayers ("salat") take 20 to 30 minutes. Muslims must pray five times a day—at dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset, and evening. The exact time is listed in the local newspaper each day. Friday is the Muslim holy day, and everything is closed on this day. Many companies also close on Thursday, making the weekend Thursday and Friday.

Emiratis are tolerant of all religions except Judaism. They are impressed by religious devotion and do not understand people who have are atheist or agnostic.

RamadanDuring the holy month of Ramadan all Muslims must fast from dawn to dusk and are only permitted to work six hours per day. Fasting includes no eating, drinking, cigarette smoking, or gum chewing. Expatriates are not required to fast; however, they must not eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in public.

Each night at sunset, families and friends gather to celebrate the breaking of the fast. The festivities often continue well into the night. In general, things happen more slowly during Ramadan. Many businesses operate on a reduced schedule. Shops may be open and closed at unusual times.