During Ramadan, a month known for enhancing spiritual and physical discipline, many residents are discovering post-Taraweeh workouts as an effective way to balance fitness with fasting.
With favorable weather and adjusted fasting schedules promoting an active lifestyle, many Muslims have started engaging in nighttime workouts to maintain their fitness levels. Residents can be seen lacing up their sneakers, picking up rackets, or heading out to football fields to remain active during this holy month.
Beachside Jogging and Bodyweight Exercises
For some, beaches provide an ideal setting for post-prayer jogging. Suhail Saeed M, a fitness enthusiast living in Al Mamzar, regularly visits the beach and park each night. “After breaking my fast, I walk to Al Mamzar Beach, pray Isha and Taraweeh at a nearby mosque, and immediately start my workout dressed in my jogging attire,” he explained. 
“I usually jog about three kilometers along the beach track and follow that with bodyweight exercises like push-ups, squats, and stretching. Doing this for around 90 minutes helps me stay active without feeling tired during the fasting hours,” added Saeed.
Rising Popularity of Indoor Sports
Others prefer indoor activities, such as badminton, which have become increasingly popular during Ramadan. Basit Bafakki from Al Nahda, Dubai, visits Cleopatra Academy at Al Etihad School after prayers. “Since my schedule changes during Ramadan, playing badminton after Taraweeh prayers suits me best. The courts are typically booked fully, as many prefer evening sessions,” said Basit.
“It’s an enjoyable way to maintain fitness and socialize. The matches are friendly yet competitive, offering a great mix of fun and exercise,” he added.
Football Nights Gaining Momentum
Football enthusiasts are also actively participating in nighttime sessions at MK Sports in Al Nahda, Sharjah. Ahmed Suleiman, a Sudanese resident of Al Majaz, finds football to be his ideal activity during Ramadan. “After Taraweeh prayers, I play football with friends every night for about an hour. It’s a perfect combination of fitness and enjoyment,” he stated
“With everyone fasting during the day, nighttime matches allow us to maintain our fitness routine without affecting energy levels. Football isn’t just a sport to me—it’s my passion. Ramadan provides an excellent chance to play in a relaxed and enjoyable environment,” Ahmed added.
Surge in Nighttime Sports Bookings
With more residents choosing post-Taraweeh sports sessions, various sports academies have noticed increased bookings. A coach at MK Sports highlighted the surge in demand for nighttime slots. “Bookings have significantly increased during Ramadan, particularly after Taraweeh prayers. Cooler weather is a key factor, making nighttime football more comfortable than daytime sessions,” the coach explained.
“Regular participants have shifted their schedules to late evenings, and we are seeing new players join specifically for Ramadan fitness activities,” added the coach.
While outdoor sports gain traction in pleasant weather, Adel Muhammed from Cleopatra Academy mentioned indoor sports continue to attract participants, especially badminton.
“Outdoor sports are popular this Ramadan because of the pleasant weather, but we still have substantial bookings for indoor sports,” Adel noted. “Indoor activities like badminton and squash appeal to those who prefer controlled environments,” he concluded.
