Fast to feast: Ramadan meals to remember
Ramadan is the most sacred month in the Islamic calendar, commemorating the revelation of the Holy Quran to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Observed by Muslims across the world, it is a time of reflection, generosity and togetherness – values that come to life each evening across Dubai through shared meals and warm hospitality.
Throughout the Holy Month – expected to commence around 19th February in 2026 – Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, breaking their fast at Iftar, while Suhoor is enjoyed before first light. In Dubai, residents and visitors alike are welcomed to take part, with restaurants and hotels across the city offering experiences that honour tradition while showcasing the best of contemporary dining.
From fine dining to traditional feasts in Bedouin-style tents and lively street food festivals, here are some of the city’s most memorable places to break the fast this Ramadan.
Ramadan Street Food Festival: A Feast for the Senses
For a more casual dining experience, the Ramadan Street Food Festival returns to Sheikh Hamdan Colony in Karama from 19 February to 18 March, transforming the neighbourhood into one of the city’s most vibrant food destinations.
Across two buzzing zones, Flavour Lane and Culinary Crossroads at Karama Park, the festival brings together the sights, sounds and aromas of Dubai’s street food scene.
More than 70 vendors will showcase an irresistible spread of South Indian and Asian favourites, from smoky kebabs and crispy chaats to comforting aapams and sweet street treats. All outlets will be open from dusk until late.
Visitors will also be treated to nightly live entertainment and cultural performances. A dedicated carnival zone adds to the fun with classic games such as Ring Toss, Smash the Can, Hook a Duck, Basketball Throw and Lucky Bucket.
This year’s festival will also host 18 community Iftars throughout the Holy Month, showcasing the spirit of generosity and togetherness that defines Ramadan in Dubai.
Celebrate Ramadan at Ciel Dubai Marina, Vignette Collection
East 14 at Ciel Dubai Marina – Iftar Illuminated
As the sun sets over the Arabian Gulf, East 14 invites guests to break their fast with a delicious Iftar buffet featuring Middle Eastern, Levantine and Asian favourites. Live cooking stations, indulgent desserts and serene views over Dubai Marina combine to deliver a truly memorable Ramadan dining experience.
Daily during Ramadan | From sunset to 10pm
AED 225 per person, including soft beverages
Nuage at Ciel Dubai Marina – Suhoor Under the Stars
Located in the world’s tallest hotel and overlooking Dubai’s highest infinity pool, Nuage offers a distinctive Suhoor experience high above Dubai Marina. Guests can enjoy a specially curated menu served from 10pm to 1am, creating a memorable pre-dawn dining experience.
Daily during Ramadan | 10pm to 1am
AED 150 per person (minimum spend)
Other Standout Iftar Experiences in Dubai
Atlantis, The Palm – Asateer Tent
The Asateer Tent at Atlantis, The Palm returns this year with grand-scale Iftar and Suhoor experiences. Known for its traditional décor, live music and expansive buffet of Arabic and international dishes, it remains a popular choice for families and large groups.
Madinat Jumeirah – Al Majlis
A long-established Ramadan favourite, Al Majlis blends traditional architecture with refined Arabian hospitality. With an extensive buffet, live cooking stations and private seating options, it is well suited to group and corporate Iftar gatherings.
Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach
Elegant and understated, the Four Seasons’ Iftar and Suhoor banquets combine regional favourites with international dishes in a relaxed yet sophisticated beachfront setting.
Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort – Crescendo
At Anantara The Palm, Iftar is served beside the resort’s infinity pool in a relaxed, elegant setting. An extensive buffet blends Arabic classics with international favourites, while traditional live music adds to the authentic atmosphere.
Need to Know – Ramadan in Dubai
Ramadan – What to Expect
The Holy Month of Ramadan , or the Month of Fasting, is one of five Acts of Worship in Islam.
It is also a time for spiritual growth through self-control, discipline and patience.
To outsiders it raises questions that Abdallah bin Eisa Al Serkal, director of the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU), is pleased to answer.
If I’m Not a Muslim, Do I Have to Fast If I Visit Dubai During Ramadan?
“Those who are not required to fast during Ramadan are non-Muslims, young children, the sick or those with mental illnesses, travellers, the elderly and women who are menstruating, pregnant, breast-feeding, or recently had a baby. Fasting is to help improve oneself, not to burden or cause hardship.”
Is Everything Closed During the Day?
“Dubai does not close down during Ramadan – it remains one of the most exciting cities in the world, offering remarkable experiences all year round. In fact, thousands of visitors come during Ramadan and it’s an ideal time to learn more about Emirati culture. Business hours are shorter, shops open later, and there’s a greater emphasis on spending time with loved ones. Nightlife is more subdued during Ramadan, although this is the month when food is unlike any other time of the year, served all over the city at Iftar and during the early hours of the morning at Suhoor – these are very festive, to say the least.”
Is It Best to Avoid Visiting Dubai During Ramadan?
“Absolutely not! Within many hotels and resorts, tourists may notice little difference compared to other times of the year – although some restaurants may be closed during the day or screened off out of respect for those who are fasting. Virtually all the usual resort and tourist facilities and activities continue without change. Life gets a slight tweak, but overall, continues as usual.”
