Dubai gears up for Ramadan events season
From traditional souqs to neighbourhood food festivals and cultural experiences, Dubai is providing residents and visitors countless opportunities to immerse themselves in the spirit of Ramadan in 2026.
Ramadan Souq: A Celebration of Tradition
Returning for its fourth season this year, the Ramadan Souq brings traditional charm to Old Municipality Street Square at Grand Souk Deira. Designed as a community-focused lead-up to the Holy Month, the souq offers a lively setting where families can prepare for Ramadan while enjoying live entertainment and cultural activities.
Dozens of stalls showcase locally made products including fragrances, carpets, fabrics, kids’ toys and homeware, alongside decorative items that capture the essence of the Holy Month. Food lovers can enjoy classic Arabic sweets such as luqaimat – crispy fried pastries drizzled with date syrup – alongside special items linked to the Emirati celebration of Hag Al Leila.
Adding to the family-friendly atmosphere are live performances, creative workshops and children’s activities, alongside popular foodie pop-ups from brands such as Salt and Omar Odali.
Global Village: Ramadan Wonder Souk
Global Village will once again host its popular Ramadan Wonder Souk in 2026. Visitors can explore products from more than 30 international pavilions, ranging from handcrafted gifts to regional food specialities. Nightly firework displays add to the festive atmosphere, creating a vibrant backdrop for post-Iftar outings.
Ramadan Street Food Festival: A Neighbourhood Favourite
For a more casual yet flavour-packed experience, the Ramadan Street Food Festival returns to Sheikh Hamdan Colony in Karama from 19 February to 18 March.
More than 70 food outlets will take part across two dining precincts – Flavour Lane and Culinary Crossroads – serving dishes from Iftar until late into the night.
The festival’s family-friendly atmosphere is enhanced by roaming entertainment, including live music, henna artists, calligraphy, tanoura dancers, stilt walkers and jugglers. A dedicated carnival zone adds classic games for children and families.
DWTC The Majlis: Iftar and Suhoor at Dubai World Trade Centre
Throughout Ramadan, Dubai World Trade Centre hosts The Majlis, welcoming residents and visitors for daily Iftar and Suhoor experiences prepared by the centre’s culinary team.
Iftar is served daily from 7pm to 9pm, while à la carte Suhoor is available from 9pm until 3am on weekdays and until 4am at weekends, offering a refined setting for both corporate and social gatherings.
Ramadan Cultural Experiences
Ramadan is also an ideal time to gain deeper insight into Dubai’s heritage and traditions. The Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood offers visitors the chance to learn about Emirati customs directly from local hosts.
The centre’s traditional Iftar experience is particularly popular with first-time visitors, providing meaningful cultural context alongside warm hospitality in a historic setting.
