Dubai Police has officially announced the location of their traditional Ramadan cannons across the emirate of Dubai. Ensuring a widespread presence throughout Dubai, these cannons will be situated at seven specific locations, while an additional mobile cannon will travel to 13 different areas.

This announcement was made during a press conference held today (Thursday) at Expo City Dubai.

The event was attended by H.E. Major General Abdullah Ali Al Ghaithi, Assistant Commandant for Operations Affairs; H.E. Major General Ali Ghanem, Assistant Commandant for Community Happiness and Logistics; Brigadier Ali Khalfan Al Mansouri, Director of the General Department of Community Happiness;  Brigadier Musabah Al Ghafli, Acting Deputy Director of the General Department of Organizations Protective Security and Emergency for Emergency Affairs; Lieutenant Colonel Abdullah Tarish Al Amimi, Commander of the Artillery Unit, Hamed bin Karam, Senior Director of Programs at Sama Dubai TV Channel, Ms. Amna Abulhoul, Executive Creative Director, Entertainment and Events, along with several officers, journalists, and media representatives.

Maj. Gen. Ghaithi mentioned that the Force has formed dedicated teams, in partnership with strategic allies, to supervise the deployment of Ramadan cannons at each selected location. He added that these cannons, classified as 'Stationary Cannons,' will be positioned across seven key areas in the emirate, including Expo Dubai, Damac Hills, Vida Creek Harbour, Burj Khalifa, Mirdif Downtown, Festival City, and Hatta Guest House.

He further highlighted that the main cannon, which will be once again positioned at Expo Dubai, symbolizes the enduring and robust partnership between the two entities since hosting Expo 2020 Dubai.

Mobile Cannon Locations

Maj. Gen. Ghaithi elaborated on the itinerary of the mobile cannon, stating that it will spend two days at each of the 13 designated locations. He added, "The journey will commence at Al Satwa Big Mosque and include stops at prominent locations such as Burj Khalifa, Nad Al Sheba, Al Ghaf Walk, Umm Suqeim Majlis, Zabeel Park, with another visit to Nad Al Sheba. It will then proceed to Dubai Creek Harbour, Hatta, followed by another visit to Nad Al Sheba. The mobile cannon will also visit Al Khawaneej Majlis, Festival City, and conclude its journey at Dubai International Financial Centre".

Revive Traditions

Maj. Gen. Ali Ghanem emphasized that the Dubai Police attaches great importance to the iftar cannon events during the holy month of Ramadan, as they play a crucial role in reviving Arab and Islamic customs, traditions, and culture within the vibrant society of the United Arab Emirates.

He further highlighted that the cannon launching events will be broadcast live on Dubai TV during Iftar time, consistently contributing to nurturing the spiritual atmosphere, promoting social values, fostering unity, and strengthening familial bonds.

Furthermore, he extended his heartfelt wishes for a blessed Ramadan to all citizens and residents of the UAE, as well as the wider Arab and Islamic community.

Meanwhile, Amna Abulhoul stated, "It's my pleasure to be here today with our partners from Dubai Police and Dubai Media Incorporated to talk about the second edition of 'Hai Ramadan', which features Emirati traditions and heritage, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the authentic Ramadan atmosphere, embodying values of tolerance, generosity, and love during the holy month. The 2nd edition 'Hai Ramadan' features various activities to create a welcoming destination that brings families and friends together during fasting, Iftar, and even Suhoor."

Lt. Col. Abdullah Tarish Al Amimi has confirmed that all necessary preparations have been completed to announce the official confirmation of the moon sighting, in line with the longstanding traditions upheld by the Dubai Police during the holy month of Ramadan. He emphasized that this important task would be accomplished by utilizing Suhoor cannons, which would serve as a means to notify fasting individuals of their daily Iftar timing, perfectly synchronized with the Maghrib call to prayer.

He further added that the Dubai Police will be utilizing two vintage French cannons, which hold significant historical value as heritage cannons, for the Ramadan cannon events. These cannons, originally used in the 1960s and deployed during last year's Ramadan, have become an integral part of the annual tradition.

Lt. Col. Al Amimi warmly encouraged community members to visit the cannon sites and immerse themselves in the rich Ramadan ambiance, appreciating its religious significance.

He further explained that the cannon will fired twice when the sighting of the Ramadan crescent is confirmed, signifying the beginning of the holy month. Each cannon is fired twice in a row to announce Ramadan, once every day to announce Iftar and twice in a row to announce Eid and again twice on the morning of Eid, after Eid prayers.

Lt. Col. Abdullah Tarish Al Amimi emphasized that the cannon, weighing 25 pounds, produces a powerful sound reaching up to 170 decibels. Its impressive range extends up to 10 kilometers.

During the press conference, Hamed bin Karam, Senior Director of Programs at Sama Dubai TV Channel, confirmed that an exciting interactive experience awaits the channel's viewers with the Rahal Cannon. Alongside the cannon, popular cartoon characters such as Al Mandous Carnival will be present, creating a delightful and engaging atmosphere with a host of captivating activities for children to enjoy.