As Ramadan 2025 approaches, consumer habits in the UAE and Saudi Arabia are undergoing noticeable shifts. These changes are influencing how people spend their money, what activities they prioritize, and how they manage their time during the holy month. A recent report by YouGov sheds light on these trends, providing valuable insights for businesses, brands, and individuals looking to understand the evolving consumer landscape during Ramadan.

Spending Trends: Essentials Take the Lead

Ramadan continues to reshape consumer spending patterns in the UAE and KSA. The latest insights highlight key categories where spending is expected to rise:

• Groceries and Daily Essentials: 57% of UAE residents and 55% of KSA residents plan to spend more on groceries and daily essentials during Ramadan.
• Dining Out and Food Delivery: Dining habits also shift during Ramadan. 41% of consumers in the UAE anticipate spending more on dining out and food delivery, compared to 33% in KSA.
• Home Décor and Furnishings: There’s a growing trend in home upgrades, with 37% of KSA residents planning to invest in home décor, versus 30% in the UAE.
• Charitable Donations and Gifting: Ramadan is a time of giving, and nearly half of all respondents report that they plan to increase their charitable donations and gifting.

Time Allocation: A Focus on Faith and Family

Ramadan isn’t just about what people spend—it’s also about how they allocate their time. The YouGov report shows significant shifts in daily routines during the holy month:

• Religious Activities: 60% of respondents indicate that they dedicate more time to religious activities, reinforcing the spiritual significance of the month.
• Family and Social Time: 54% of consumers plan to spend more time with family and friends, highlighting the importance of social connections during Ramadan.
• Entertainment Consumption: TV, streaming, and gaming also see a rise in engagement, with 42% of consumers spending more time on entertainment, although many prefer shorter content formats.

Interestingly, residents of KSA show a stronger preference for dining out, while consumers in the UAE are more likely to order food for delivery.

Health and Dining Habits: Focusing on Balanced Nutrition

Health-conscious eating is a key priority for consumers in both the UAE and KSA during Ramadan. The report highlights the following trends:

• Balanced Meals: 53% of respondents focus on maintaining balanced meals and healthier options during Ramadan.
• Portion Control: 52% of consumers practice portion control to avoid overeating after long hours of fasting.
• Incorporating Fruits and Vegetables: 41% of respondents aim to include more fruits and vegetables in their meals.

When it comes to dining habits during Iftar, there are some interesting differences between the two countries. 51% of KSA residents prefer home-cooked meals, while 36% of UAE residents opt to order food. Additionally, 33% of UAE consumers choose Iftar delivery, compared to just 18% in KSA.

Travel and Leisure: A Shift Toward Staying Local

Ramadan 2025 sees a decline in travel plans, with many consumers opting to stay close to home. The report reveals:

• Staying Local: 50% of UAE residents and 45% of KSA residents plan to stay home during Ramadan. For those who do choose to travel:
  • 22% plan short trips within their city or region.
  • 12% are considering domestic travel.
  • 6% are planning international leisure trips.

Evening activities are centered around outdoor leisure, with visiting parks being a favorite pastime for many. In the UAE, 48% of respondents enjoy park visits, while 49% of those in KSA share this interest.

Charitable Giving and Social Commerce: New Ways to Give and Shop

Charitable giving remains a central part of Ramadan, and consumers are becoming more thoughtful about how their donations are used. Key findings include:

• Transparency in Giving: 65% of KSA residents and 64% of UAE residents say that ensuring donations are used effectively is "very important."
• Preferred Donation Methods: 31% of people in KSA donate at in-person stations (like malls and events), while 34% of UAE residents give directly to individuals or local communities. Online donations via charity websites and apps are also popular, especially in KSA (27%) compared to the UAE (19%).

At the same time, social commerce continues to thrive during Ramadan. The report indicates that 61% of UAE and KSA consumers are likely to shop via Instagram or TikTok. The key drivers of social commerce include:

• Influencer Recommendations: 25% of KSA consumers and 23% of UAE consumers are influenced by recommendations from social media influencers.
• Flash Sales and Exclusive Deals: 31% of UAE consumers and 23% of KSA consumers are drawn to flash sales and special offers via social media.
• Live Shopping Events: Live shopping events hosted by brands or influencers are becoming an increasingly popular way to make purchases.

Aligning with Consumer Shifts: Key Takeaways for Brands and Retailers

Ramadan 2025 is a pivotal time for both businesses and consumers, with key trends shaping how people spend, socialize, and consume content. For brands, understanding these shifts is essential to delivering relevant experiences.

• Health-Focused Options: Offering healthier food choices and balanced meal plans could resonate with consumers prioritizing health during Ramadan.
• Digital-First Engagement: With social commerce on the rise, engaging with consumers through platforms like Instagram and TikTok can drive sales and strengthen brand loyalty.
• Charitable and Social Responsibility: Brands that focus on transparency in charitable giving and offer opportunities for consumers to contribute meaningfully could create a strong connection with their audience.

By aligning with these consumer trends, businesses can create more personalized, relevant experiences that resonate deeply with consumers during this transformative month.