Dubai

Ramadan in Dubai 2025: Your ultimate guide is here

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You might be thinking that Dubai is just about glamorous lifestyles and glittering skyscrapers. But the UAE megacity is also famous for being full of traditions and cultural phenomena. Celebrating Ramadan in Dubai is nothing less than a memorable experience.

The holy month of Ramadan is a precious period for all Muslims across the globe. Contrary to popular belief, Dubai is completely open to tourists during this period. But there are some important things that you should pay attention to. Here is the guide.

1. Significance of Ramadan

Source: Unsplash

Ramadan is considered the holiest month in the Islamic calendar. During this period, Muslims in different countries focus on practicing fasting or ‘siyam’. Muslims abstain from eating or drinking from the sunrise prayer to the sunset prayer.

Before the sun rises, people fasting during Ramadan eat a fulfilling meal called ‘suhoor’ before the morning prayer call and break their fast after the sunset prayer as they eat a meal called ‘Iftar’. The act of fasting is to reflect on the blessings of God.

Practicing charity is one of the most important practices that Muslims engage in during the holy month of Ramadan. Eid al-Fitr marks the conclusion of Ramadan. Dubai lights up for grand celebrations and residents enjoy a long public holiday.

2. Expected Ramadan 2025 dates in Dubai

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Each year, the holy month moves back by approximately 10 days. Therefore, it is recommended to check the exact dates closer to the festivals. Dates are based on moon sightings.

In 2025, Ramadan is expected to start on February 28 or March 1 and end on the last day of the next month. Depending on moon sightings, an Islamic month lasts 29 or 30 days. Usually, employees start receiving holidays from the 29th of Ramadan to the 3rd of Eid al-Fitr.

3. Ramadan tents in Dubai for Suhoor and Iftar

Suhoor and Iftar – as already mentioned – are the main meals during the holy month of Ramadan. The first one represents the beginning of the fast and the second one is used to break it. In Dubai, both meals are a grand affair.

During Ramadan, scores of restaurants put considerable effort into preparing extraordinary Suhoor and Iftar meals. You can find a lot of options, from high-end, luxury meals to local markets presenting traditional delicacies.

Many popular places in Dubai also set up Ramadan tents, offering a luxurious dining experience. Some of the most popular names include Iftar at Dubai Opera, Bedouin Iftar Experience at Bab al-Shams Resort, Madinat Jumeirah, and Atlantis, The Palm.

The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding ensures a thrilling storytelling experience and traditional meals, too. You can undergo an authentic and genuine cultural experience in the city.

4. Eating and drinking during Ramadan in Dubai

Source: Unsplash

One of the most commonly asked questions is: Can I eat and drink in public during Ramadan in Dubai? Yes, you can. Earlier, there used to be a strict restriction on eating and drinking during the holy month. But things have become more liberal in recent years.

But there are some things you should pay attention to. First of all, not all dining venues in Dubai are open during the daytime during Ramadan. But many restaurants and cafes do keep their doors open for visitors. You should check the opening time to skip disappointment.

Second, alcohol is restricted in Dubai during Ramadan except for select places that hold a special licence to sell during the holy month. Still, if you fancy a drink, make sure to call and check before visiting. Essentially, be mindful and respectful of those fasting.

5. Popular things to do during Ramadan in Dubai

Dubai doesn’t crash into a standstill during the holy month. There is plenty to do during Ramadan in Dubai. Most of the attractions, such as theme parks, shopping malls, Burj Khalifa and Dubai Frame, stay open.

Music, dancing and most of the other forms of entertainment are restricted during Ramadan. Therefore, some of the major experiences such as belly dancing in Desert Safari and live performances at restaurants and yachts stop for the month.

a. Ramadan markets

Ramadan markets in Dubai offer a close glimpse into the city’s history and culture. They are the perfect places to explore the underrated side of the UAE, shop and indulge in delicious and authentic Suhoor and Iftar meals.

Most of these Ramadan markets in Dubai are free to enter. Some of the popular names are:

– Mall of the Emirates Ramadan Night Market

– Expo City Ramadan Night Market

– al-Seef Night Market

b. Suhoor and Iftar in Ramadan tents

These large, party-sized tents are one of the most exciting things about Ramadan in Dubai. Some of the top hotels in Dubai set up Ramadan tents each year, offering delicious meals. They are also the epitome of luxury, full of sculptures and chandeliers.

c. Endless shopping

Shopping in Dubai is one of the best things to do in the city all year round. During Ramadan, you can find some of the best store deals and offers. Shop at your preferred markets or malls and reap the benefits of stunning deals.

d. Ramadan Canons

Many locations across Dubai host the famous Ramadan Canons that are used to announce the sunset prayer. They ensure a fun experience as members of the police and other departments line up for a professional proceeding to fire the canons.

6. Ramadan in Dubai rules and etiquette

a. Respect Dubai’s culture and traditions and pay attention to Ramadan rules

b. Respect the people fasting around you

c. Dress modestly during the holy month of Ramadan

d. Don’t be disrespectful of anybody’s culture or traditions

e. Don’t play loud music in public places

f. Don’t engage in inappropriate behaviour in public

g. Don’t drink alcohol in public places during Ramadan in Dubai

h. Seek permission before clicking pictures of anything or anyone

i. Don’t participate in public displays of affection

j. Be considerate of the reduced orking hours of employees during Ramadan

Ramadan 2025: Explore budget iftars in UAE

This year, Ramadan in Dubai is expected to begin at the end of February or the beginning of March. The final date ultimately depends on moon sightings. Iftar and Suhoor meals are a big part of this holy month.

Restaurants across the UAE are gradually starting their Ramadan 2025 preparations, focusing on elaborate buffets and set menus. If you are on the lookout for budget options, here is a list of restaurants and tents offering the same.

1. Mausam

Source: Mausam/Instagram

This Indian restaurant in Dubai Mall is preparing for an elaborate Ramadan meal. On the menu are samosa, onion bhaji, fresh fruits, butter chicken, fish coconut curry and more.

IG: instagram.com/mausamdubai/

Pricing: Dh149 per person

2. Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

Source: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental/Instagram

The Majlis by the Sea is returning to Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental in 2025. Customers get the liberty to choose a la carte or set menus.

IG: instagram.com/mo_emiratespalace/

Pricing: Dh200 per person

3. Beefbar

Source: Beefbar/Instagram

This dining spot in Umm Sequim 3 is planning a four-course sharing-style Iftar menu, including soup, starters, mains and desserts. Don’t forget the Ramadan mocktail.

IG: instagram.com/beefbar_dubai/

Pricing: Dh280 per person

4. Expo City

Source: Expo City/Instagram

Does breaking your fast at Expo City Dubai’s Iftar Under The Dome sound mesmerising. Celebrate the holy month under one breathtaking dome.

IG: instagram.com/eatatexpocity/

Pricing: Dh260 per person

5. Emirates Park Zoo

Source: Emirates Park Zoo/Instagram

Emirates Park Zoo is planning elegantly decorated tents to present a delicious iftar buffet. Break your fast this Ramadan 2025 in a unique surrounding.

IG: instagram.com/emiratesparkzoo/

Pricing: Dh260 per person

6. Atlantis, The Palm – Asateer Tent Iftar Buffet

Experience Ramadan at the iconic Asateer tent with glittering lights, themed Iftar nights, and oriental entertainment. Indulge in traditional Suhoor delicacies in a stunning setting.

Atlantis, The Palm - Iftar
Source: Atlantis, The Palm

Instagram: atlantisthepalm

  • Date: 28 February – 28 March 2025 I Sunset to 8:30pm
  • Price: AED 285 per person (Monday – Thursday)
    AED 310 per person (Friday – Sunday)
  • Opening Hours: SunSet – 8:30 PM
  • How to Get There: Located on Palm Jumeirah, take a taxi or use the Palm Monorail from Palm Gateway.

7. Burj Al Arab – Al Muntaha Iftar Experience

Al Muntaha in Burj Al Arab, offering exquisite gourmet dishes with breathtaking views of Dubai. Savor an unforgettable dining experience 200 meters above the Arabian Gulf.

Source: Al Muntaha at Jumeirah Burj Al Arab

Instagram: Al Muntaha at Jumeirah Burj Al Arab

  • Price: AED 450 per person
  • Opening Hours: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
  • How to Get There: Easily reached by taxi or the hotel’s private shuttle service.

8. Address Downtown – Iftar Buffet

The Restaurant invites diners to enjoy an extraordinary Iftar experience, where culinary excellence meets the spirit of Ramadan.

Source: Address Downtown – Iftar Buffet

Instagram: Address Downtown

  • Price: AED 400 per person
  • Opening Hours: 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM
  • How to Get There: Situated near Burj Khalifa; accessible via the Metro Red Line (Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station) or by taxi.

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