Forget the decadence that comes with sprawling buffets housed in elaborately designed tents, and explore the true essence of the holy month instead.
Ramadan in Dubai can sometimes be an unnecessarily extravagant affair — elaborate iftars served in sprawling tents accented with floral arrangements and gilded chandeliers don’t quite echo the holy month’s true spirit. In contrast, a number of less conspicuous events and initiatives are anchored in modest dining, spiritual reflection, communal well-being, and quality family time, and each is just as wholesome as you’d expect. Ramadan is expected to begin on 12 March, so now’s the time to mark some of them on your calendar. Here are our top picks.
Dubai Souks Iftar Tour
For an iftar experience unlike any other
Imitators have come and gone, but Frying Pan Adventures remains the definitive tour operator when it’s time to hit the labyrinthine alleys of Old Dubai in search of street food and fascinating stories. Now, in celebration of Ramadan, it’s hosting the new Dubai Souks Iftar Tour. Participants will be guided through the city’s oldest souks to witness – and even sample – a modest iftar that serves over 2,500 people on the pavement. The sense of community will continue as you wander through Spice Souk, ride an old-timey abra, dine on a traditional meal from Yemen, and hear stories about regional traditions that few expats are privy to. Learn more here.
Ramadan Iftar Program
For a better understanding of cultural nuances
The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) has long been a starting point for tourists eager to learn about Emirati culture, and its many activities win rave reviews every time. Come March, we recommend booking its Ramadan Iftar Program that hosts iftar in a wind-tower house in the heart of Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. The evening will commence with the adhan, the call to prayer, followed by the breaking of the fast with light appetisers shared with your Emirati hosts, and then a visit to the nearby Diwan Mosque. You’ll return to the SMCCU house to savour an assortment of local dishes and desserts while learning more about the significance of Ramadan and the culture of the UAE. Learn more here.
Ramadan Nights
For a connection with the wider community
Free and open to all, Ramadan Nights at Jameel Arts Centre will once again curate offerings exclusively for the holy month. This time around, the cultural institution is encouraging its guests to go back in time and live life in the slow lane. Scheduled for 16 and 23 March, both nights will feature programming that dives into the essence of Ramadan, exploring creative ways to embody and embrace the present moment. You’ll also explore current Art Jameel exhibitions through storytelling and art talks, connect with the wider community through thematic well-being and mindfulness workshops, and immerse in self-led activities at Jameel’s drop-in stations. Learn more here.
Dreams of Rumi
For a spiritual journey through Rumi’s life
Part performance, part spiritual journey, Dreams of Rumi is ideally suited to anyone seeking a cultural excursion that reflects the tone of Ramadan. Hosted by the Theatre of Digital Art, an immersive art space located at Souk Madinat Jumeirah, the 90-minute show is scheduled for 31 March. As for what to expect? An evening immersed in the transcendental wisdom of Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi, a globally renowned Islamic scholar and Sufi mystic, thanks to a truly unique fusion of authentic music, poetry, and Sufi whirling. Incidentally, the digital art hub is no stranger to hosting events that help guests look within — immersive meditation, sound healing, and Sufi music sessions all reside on its calendar. Learn more here.
Hai Ramadan
For a meaningful day out with family
For a Ramadan activity that the whole family can join, Hai Ramadan is where it’s at. Returning to Al Wasl Plaza at Expo City Dubai, this celebration of the holy month entails a cultural interpretation of the Arabic word hai, which means both ‘neighbourhood’ and ‘welcome’. Set to begin on the first day of Ramadan, it will feature everything from enticing iftars and suhoors to cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, a lively souk, and more — all infused with charm and nostalgia aplenty. Be sure to catch the beloved Iftar Cannon while you’re there. Originating in Egypt and now a cherished tradition in Muslim countries worldwide, the cannon fires a single shot at sunset, signalling the beginning of iftar. Learn more here.
