Ramadaan runs from October 5 - November 4 in 2005 and can be a special time to visit countries like Dubai as it offers a real chance to experience and observe some of Islam's deep-rooted customs. One of the most popular Islamic countries for South Africans is Dubai, and a special guide, 'Dubai: Life in Ramadaan', has recently been released and provides useful tips and advice on how to respect the tradition and culture at this time.

Ramadaan is the ninth month of the Islamic Lunar Calendar and is often perceived to be a time that you should not visit Islamic countries, but Dubai has addressed those perceptions and welcomes visitors during this period.

Commenting on how South African visitors can enhance their visit to Dubai at this time, Antoinette Lloyd, Director for the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing in South Africa said: "Dubai is a year-round destination, and through our guide 'Dubai: Life in Ramadaan' we can advise any potential traveller from South Africa that their experience will not be hindered."

She added: "During Ramadaan it is expected that visitors refrain from eating, drinking or smoking in public from sunrise to sunset, but most hotels cater for their guests and have areas where tourists can eat and drink without any concerns of offending the culture."

At night, once the fast has been broken, Dubai becomes very festive and holidaymakers may be invited into the iftar — which means 'breaking of the fast' — tents at sunset for the main meal of the day.

Dubai has a programme dedicated to cultural understanding initiated by Sheikh Mohammed. Tourists during Ramadaan can experience true Arabic hospitality by being given the opportunity to feel the spirit of the sacred month and enjoy a meal and have contact with local emirates at one of many Ramadaan tents that are erected around Dubai.

During this period foreigners, tourists and non Muslims are granted more opportunities to visit the Jumeirah Mosque where local Arabs openly discuss and explain their culture and religion.

Many hotel establishments also prepare special Ramadaan packages. Welcoming the Ramadaan festival, visitors to the InterContinental Dubai can indulge in the Al Mansour Dhow’s special five-star floating tent.

The cruise, featuring a sumptuous international and Arabic buffet accompanied with a free flow of soft drinks is available with other Ramadaan packages for the perfect festive getaway. A host of fabulous room offers with great rates and special add-ons are available, with booking options that can include complimentary Iftar and Suhour, and tickets to activities at the Wild Wadi Water Park, the most sophisticated aqua park in the world. All offers are available throughout the Holy Month.

For visitors who want to get to know the Dubai way of life, Ramadaan is a wonderful, interesting experience. The 'Dubai: Life in Ramadaan' guide is available free of charge from the DTCM office in Johannesburg.

The Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing can be contacted via email to info@dubaitourism.co.za, or you can speak to an information consultant between 8.30am - 4.30pm from Monday to Friday on (011) 785 4600.