Experience Ramadan In Dubai

What is Ramadan?

The Holy Month of Ramadan is the most important time of year for Muslims, as it is when God (Allah) revealed the Koran (Islamic holy book) to the Prophet Muhammad. It is marked by fasting during daylight hours, before the breaking of the fast after sundown, with a celebratory meal known as iftar.

When Does Ramadan Take Place?

Ramadan takes place during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, based on lunar cycles. This means that the dates of Ramadan change each year. This year, Ramadan is expected to fall between Monday, February 16, 2026, and Sunday, March 22, 2026.

Can I Visit Dubai During Ramadan?

Yes, you most definitely can. In fact, Ramadan is a great time to visit Dubai, showcasing the emirate’s spiritual heritage and culture.
All major attractions and shopping malls remain open, although some may alter their opening hours. If you’re lucky, you will also be able to take advantage of the special sales and deals that can often be found during Ramadan.

Do Hotels In Dubai Operate As Normal During Ramadan?

All of Dubai’s luxury hotels and resorts operate normally during Ramadan, meaning you can take advantage of all the superb amenities and facilities provided.

Are Restaurants Open In Dubai During Ramadan?

Most restaurants in Dubai remain open during Ramadan and operate as normal, allowing those not fasting to dine as usual. Some dining venues may alter opening hours, while small eateries may close during daylight hours, welcoming customers when the sun goes down.

Can I Eat, Drink And Smoke During Ramadan Fasting Hours In Dubai?

If you are not fasting during Ramadan, you can eat, drink and smoke as long as you abide by Dubai’s laws on drinking alcohol and smoking in public places. You may, however, decide to avoid food and drink while out and about as a show of respect to those who are fasting.

Where Are The Best Iftars In Dubai?

When the sun sets and it’s time to break the fast, you’re in for a real treat with many of Dubai’s sublime hotels and resorts, along with a variety of superb restaurants and other venues, hosting extravagant iftar meals.

You’ll find dining options to suit families, friends and couples, as well as all tastes and budgets, with truly unbelievable feasts, banquets and experiences on the menu during this celebrated holy month.

Daily buffets can be enjoyed at The Restaurant, in Address Beach Resort, Luna Pool Lounge, at Address Creek Harbour and Ewaan, at Palace Downtown.

You can tuck into tasty Moroccan fare at One&Only Royal Mirage, and delicious international dishes at Cetara, in Address Downtown, and Solara, at Address Dubai Mall.

You’re spoilt for choice with iftar options at Madinat Jumeirah. As well as the mouthwatering Emirati meals at the elegant Al Majlis tent, you’ll find irresistible Arabic and international cuisine on the menu at Hanaaya, at Jumeirah Mina Al Salam and Lebanese delicacies Al Nafoorah at Jumeirah Al Qasr.

Other iftar dining options include Al Diwan, at Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, the Ramadan Garden, at Jumeirah Beach Hotel and the Majlis at Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, where you’ll be treated to divine dishes from Michelin-starred Tasca by Jose Avillez or Netsu by Ross Shonhan, authentic Middle Eastern food at

However, for a completely immersive iftar experience, make sure you visit the Ramadan Street Food Festival, in the Sheikh Hamdan Colony of the Karama district of Dubai. Free to attend, this family-friendly event takes place from February 16 to March 15, with more than 70 restaurants serving up sweet and savoury dishes from near and far, as well as live music, street performers, food challenges and much more.

Where Are The Best Suhoors In Dubai?

If you’re fasting when you visit Dubai during Ramadan, you’ll want to prepare before sunrise with a suhoor. This traditional pre-dawn meal can be enjoyed at a variety of venues, with the chance to eat al fresco under the stars also available.

Some of the best suhoors are on offer in Dubai’s superb hotels, with plenty to choose from.

You can select from a set menu at Address Dubai Mall’s Solara, or fuel up in The Garden and Lobby Lounge at Address Downtown.

Dine in the Majlis, at Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, or find a spot outside to enjoy Arabian-Inspired flavours from the buffet along with views across the glistening Arabian Gulf.

Levantine and Arabic cuisine is on the menu at One&Only Royal Mirage, where you can dine at the Oriental Garden Majlis or visit Tagine to devour tasty Moroccan fare.

Alternatively, you could visit the Four Seasons Resort Dubai to feast on buffet treats at the open-air Majlis, or, if you’re staying at any of the Madinat Jumeirah hotels, Al Majlis is the place to go for your suhoor.

Holidays in Dubai During Ramadan - Know Before You Go

What Should I Wear During Ramadan In Dubai?

As with any other time of year that you travel to Dubai, you should be aware of the local culture and religion and dress appropriately for specific occasions, while out and about and when visiting certain locations.

During Ramadan you should be extra considerate, and make sure to wear loose-fitting clothes that cover shoulders and knees when in public. If you choose to visit a mosque, you should dress in items that cover your arms and legs. Women may also be required to wear a headscarf.

Can I Go To The Beach In Dubai During Ramadan?

Yes, you can still enjoy time at the beach if you are visiting Dubai during Ramadan. It’s also fine to wear swimwear, although it’s recommended you choose a more modest bathing suit and remember to cover up when you leave the area.

The same applies to hotel beach areas and pools, meaning you can still soak up the sun and relax during your holiday in Dubai.

How Is Eid Celebrated In Dubai?

Marking the end of Ramadan, Eid Al Fitr takes place on the first three days of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar, with the dates depending on the sighting of the crescent moon.

In Dubai, Eid is celebrated across the city, with streets lit up with decorations and bright lights, and feasts, concerts, entertainment events, nightly fireworks and special sales taking place. If Eid falls around a weekend, festivities can continue for up to five days.

Experience Ramadan in Dubai for yourself. Book your holiday now.