From Ramadan souqs to fun experiences to try out, this guide has roamed across the UAE to bring you family-friendly, diverse options.
Ramadan in the UAE is anything but quiet. While it's a sacred time for reflection and fasting, when the sun goes down the nation transforms into a vibrant hub of experiences for everyone. From souqs to fun experiences to try out, here are some of the most exciting Ramadan outings to try out throughout the UAE…
Watch the Ramadan Cannon Firing Tradition in Dubai
Burj Khalifa - Al Mankhool - Al Baraha - Madinat Jumeirah's Fort Island, Dubai
The sound of cannons being fired when the sun sets and mosques begin calling people to prayer is one custom that unites people during Ramadan. The reverberating sound can be heard throughout the emirate, emanating from various locations such as Burj Khalifa, the Eid prayer grounds in Al Mankhool and Al Baraha, and at Madinat Jumeirah's Fort Island, where one of the city's iconic iftar cannon is ceremoniously fired at sunset.
Pray at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi
Al Rawdah, Abu Dhabi
One of the largest mosques in the world, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a vast architectural masterpiece that purposefully combines elements of several Islamic architectural styles. There’s no better time to visit this mosque than in the holy month of Ramadan, for taraweh or tahajjud prayer.
Visit at the Ramadan Wonder Souk in Global Village Dubai
Global Village Dubai, Dubai
In addition to the abundance of activities available at Global Village Dubai during Ramadan, there will be a Wonder Souk designed to resemble a traditional Emirati market. Every day, from 6 PM to 2 AM, you can enjoy the Arabian Orchestra's soulful renditions on the main stage, or witness a Ramadan Cannon.
Try Arabian Desert Picnic Tradition Keshta in Sharjah
Al Badayer, Sharjah
The Keshta is an Arabian gathering infused with the allure of Bedouin hospitality. It’s a perfect time to have a cosy iftar deep in the desert watching the beauty of sunset, or a tranquil suhoor under the stars, with a Hijazi Almond ‘Qahwa’ or dates, which you can arrange and experience in Al Badayer desert in Sharjah.
Experience ‘Sheikh of Egyptian Chanters’ at Louvre Abu Dubai
Louvre Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi
Known as the 'Sheikh of Egyptian chanters', Inshad master Sheikh Mahmoud El-Tohamy is performing The Carpenter's Daughters at Louvre Abu Dhabi, featuring well-known poems that extol the virtues of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), on Thursday, March 14th, from 9:30 PM to 11:00 PM.
Delight in the Cuisines at Hai Ramadan in Expo City Dubai
Al Wasl Plaza, Expo City Dubai, Dubai
During Ramadan, Expo City Dubai will become a classic Emirati neighbourhood, complete with a bustling souq, customary events, iftar and suhoor options, and much more. From stage shows, to inflatable obstacles courses, to performances of children's stories, Hai Ramadan is focused on kid-friendly entertainment as well. These activities will run from March 9th to April 8th, and are available from 5:00 PM to midnight.
Check out Ramadan District Pop-Up in Dubai
Plaza Terrace, Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai
Back for a second season, Ramadan District blends contemporary entertainment with its cultural legacy, offering a variety of attractions and events like hosting board games, interactive games, henna and calligraphy artists, and even cooking classes. The pop-up is available from March 15th to April 4th, from 5 PM to 2 AM.
Easter Brunch at Ginger Restaurant in Abu Dhabi
Park Rotana Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi
For non-Muslims or those who aren’t fasting, Park Rotana Abu Dhabi is hosting an Easter brunch at their Ginger Restaurant with international cuisine, an egg hunt for kids, a bouncy castle and face painting. Taking place on March 31st, from 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM, there are packages to choose from AED 110 for kids up to AED 220 depending on buffet and beverages.
Pass by City Walk’s Ramadan Night Market in Dubai
City Walk, Al Safa Street, Dubai
Full of delicious meal options for iftar and suhoor, as well as many shops, City Walk is home to a Ramadan Night Market. From March 9th to April 7th, you can also find enchanting live entertainment and music events at the destination, and gorgeous Ramadan-themed decorations.
Play Golf at Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club in Sharjah
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, Sharjah
If you want to get active and pass the time, but in a less physically-straining sense, you can opt for golfing for a lighter exercise while fasting. The area is a fully-fledged 9-hole course, available for booking online.
Head to Souk Al Marfa’s Ramadan Transformation in Dubai
Dubai Islands, Dubai
The Deira Islands' waterfront market, Souk Al Marfa, is commemorating Holy Month with special deals and events along Dubai Creek. There will be a wide range of jewellery and fashion kiosks, as well as plenty of food, drink, and activities, including interactive workshops for kids.
