Dubai during Ramadan

Material updated: 1.03.2024

Ramadan is a sacred month for Muslims around the globe, associated with spiritual self-reflection, renewal and ritual practice. Life significantly slows down during the day, however, once the sun sets and the daily fast is broken with the evening meal of iftar, Dubai springs back to life. In 2024, the holy month of Ramadan falls in the winter period for the first time in 24 years and will take place from the 11th of March till the 9th of April.

Ramadan is also a great time to discover the city with its authentic vibes and old traditions. You can enjoy signature meals at some of the most coveted dining venues, and cash in on lucrative shopping deals. In this article, we’ll share information on where to find the best sales, along with insights into special promotions available at restaurants and local landmarks.

Although things work a bit differently, there is still much to do during Ramadan in Dubai. A majority of local landmarks are open but for fewer hours. Due to the fact that dancing, music and performances are limited during Ramadan, select venues that offer this kind of entertainment stop all shows during this period.

NBD! Traditional dance shows, including belly dancing, are canceled during Ramadan and on all special Islamic days.

Sales

According to Arabian Business, the global service amazon.ae announced a huge Ramadan Sale event, which started at midnight on February 27th and will end on March 8th. You have the opportunity to take advantage of great deals and discounts up to 50% off, with extra sales from Amazon’s banking partners. Additionally, Prime members in eligible locations across the emirate will be able to benefit from the Fresh Grocery category.

LuLu Hypermarkets also launched an exciting Ramadan campaign. A wide array of dedicated deals and promotions are provided to shoppers both online and in person. Shoppers can take advantage of deals across various categories, such as baked goods, fresh produce, groceries, electronics, furniture and home appliances. The Ramadan campaign from LuLu Hypermarkets will last until the 9th of March.

The Carrefour supermarket announced a sale of up to 70% off on televisions, household appliances, smartphones, and photo and video cameras.

NBD! The zoutons.ae platform features a myriad of coupons and discount codes of up to 80% off. Retailers with attractive offers include Noon UAE, Sivvi, Carrefour, Bloomingdale’s UAE and West Elm, to name a few.

Attractions

Ramadan in Dubai is brimming with all kinds of activities suitable for all ages.

Ramadan Night Market

Ramadan Night Market is set to take place from the 9th of March to the 7th of April from 8pm to 2am in the Dubai World Trade Center. You can buy an assortment of fashion items, handicrafts, jewelry and household goods from multicultural retailers from the entire entry. The entry is completely free, which is another exciting bonus to the event.

Hai Ramadan

Expo City Dubai, which is the legacy of the sensational Expo 2020, is hosting Hai Ramadan from March 9th til April 8th. Here you can indulge in the best of regional culinary offerings, international cuisine and street food. Participate in the workshops and discover the traditions and crafts of the Emirates. The ticket is valid for the day of purchase, priced at AED 20.8 (USD 5.67), with free entry for children under the age of 5. However, additional fees may apply for certain activities. Opening hours are from 17:00 to 00:00.

​Al Marmoom Heritage Festival

The festival will take place every day from the 13th till the 28th March, immersing you in rich Emirati culture. This family-friendly event at Al Marmoom Heritage Village, Al Marmoom, is aimed at celebrating ancient Arab traditions. You will see camel races, live concerts and much more. A wide range of leisure options will also be available for visitors of all ages.

Ramadan Wonders

Throughout Ramadan, Global Village will host ‘Ramadan Wonders’, including ‘Majlis of the World’. You’ll have the chance to watch live performances, go shopping and do various activities in unique pavilions. You can also book a table and enjoy suhoor and iftar accompanied by the melodious live music played on the harp and the oud — a string instrument that is finger-plucked. The event will take place from 18:00 to 02:00.

Dining

Since Dubai is known as a global culinary hub, during Ramadan the city features an abundance of one-of-a-kind dining experiences for everyone to enjoy. In 2024, Dubai Opera, Expo City and other iconic venues are offering a myriad of mouthwatering delights in a mesmerizing atmosphere.

Expo City Dubai

As part of Hai Ramadan, Expo City Dubai on Al Wasl Avenue has announced that the Surreal waterfalls will be open specifically for iftar and suhoor. This sensational gravity-defying feature will stun with its breathtaking combination of water, fire and music. Here, a surreal iftar prepared by renowned guest chefs will take place.

The starting prices for suhoor and iftar are about AED 150 (USD 41) and AED 220 (USD 60), respectively, per person. You can make reservations online and find out more about booking a table via [email protected], WhatsApp: +971 54 246 7188 or on Eat App.

NBD! Iftar in Expo City Dubai is free for children aged 5 and under, and half price for 12 and under.

SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences

SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences in Business Bay is inviting everyone to enjoy a sumptuous iftar in its Iftar Tent on the 75th floor with a stunning panoramic view of the city. The main dishes include sea bream samke harra and short rib tajine, whilst desserts like baklava ice cream and saffron and pistachio kunafa will showcase the exclusivity of the Middle Eastern cuisine. For more information and reservations, contact [email protected] or call +971 549 918 120.

Jumeirah Emirates Towers

Last year’s most popular iftar returns to the Terrace Between the Towers with live cooking demonstrations. The team of chefs will offer about a quarter of their local menu, including Manchego and Burrata, as well as goat’s cheese labneh and feta.

The ticket costs AED 315 (USD 86) per person. You can make a reservation on the Dubai Opera’s official website, while group bookings are available via. For more information, you can contact +971 4 440 8888.

Atlantis The Palm, Dubai

Atlantis The Palm, Dubai on Palm Jumeirah offers you the opportunity to indulge in a delicious iftar with your family and friends at the Asateer Tent. In 2024, the gorgeous venue is providing terrace seating options. There will be a fusion buffet featuring different culinary styles , such as International, Arabesque, Khaleeji, Persian and Turkish Cuisine. You can select from an array of seating, including a Royal Majlis, 6 VIP Majlis areas, 110 dining tables and booth seating.

Children aged 3 and under dine for free, while the adult ticket price for iftar is AED 270 (USD 74) Monday–Thursday and AED 290 (USD 79) Friday–Sunday per person. Atlantis The Palm Dubai also offers suhoor for those aged 21 and up. You can make a reservation here and get additional information via (0)4 426 2626.