Mawlay Rolls Out a Royal Ramadan Experience at Four Egyptian Palaces

Transforming our Iftar and Suhoor outings into a regal excursion, local cultural culinary curator Mawlay is taking over some of the most majestic and gorgeous historic locations in Egypt, from Abdeen Palace, Qubba Palace and Tahra Palace in Cairo, to Alexandria’s Haramlek Palace for the first time.

In previous years, they’ve graced the halls of Museum of Egyptian Civilization, the iconic Cairo Citadel, and the stunning Abdeen Palace. For its fourth edition, Mawlay returns on an even grander scale by setting up in four locations instead of one. This year's theme, ‘A Royal Voyage Through Time’, reflects the diverse menus guests and culinary experiences guests can expect.

“After seeing the immense interest in Abdeen Palace last year, it was clear that people have a profound appreciation for these royal palaces,” Mawlay founder Dina El Sabban tells SceneEats.  “In response, I sought to find a way to allow more individuals to experience these architectural marvels during Ramadan while maintaining the essence of the Mawlay spirit.”

The experience begins at Abdeen Palace from March 16th till March 23rd, followed by Qubba Palace’s Royal Gardens and Tahra Palace on March 25th till April 2nd. The journey culminates in Alexandria at the historic Haramlek Palace from April 4th till the 6th. There will even be a weekend package on offer including transportation and accommodation at the Helnan Palestine hotel.

While Abdeen, Qubba, and Haramlek Palaces will be open for public bookings, Tahra Palace will only be available for exclusive reservations to rent out the space.

Each location within Mawlay's 2024 itinerary contains a unique, themed menu, curated by the Four Seasons Nile Plaza to reflect its surroundings and historic context. Cairo’s menus will be laced with Italian flavors, while Alexandria’s menu is set to feature a Mediterranean twist. Cairo’s Iftar menu explores delicious lemony butterfly shrimps and gravy-soaked beef tenderloin on top of risotto cake, with a pasta dish of tortellini stuffed with eggplant in lemon butter and parmesan sauce. Alexandria’s menu meanwhile includes Alexandrian liver and more hot platters like hawashi, sujook and shawarma. El Sabban didn’t forget about the most beloved part of Ramadan as well; the desserts. Cairo will see konafa tiramisu and creme brulee on its menu, while Alexandria’s outing will include an Om Ali station and more oriental platters.