As the holy month of Ramadan arrives in Dubai, the city transforms into a hub of culture, tradition, and gastronomy. For both residents and visitors, this is the perfect time to experience the best of what Dubai’s dining scene has to offer, particularly in the realm of Iftar and Suhoor. The city’s top venues provide exceptional culinary experiences that seamlessly blend tradition with modernity, offering not only delicious food but a memorable cultural immersion. Whether you’re enjoying the serene setting of an outdoor garden, indulging in an extravagant buffet, or savoring fusion flavors, Dubai has something for every palate during Ramadan.
Ramadan in Dubai is more than just a time for fasting; it’s an opportunity to connect with family, community, and spirituality. During this month, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs as an act of devotion. However, the breaking of the fast, known as Iftar, is a grand social event that brings people together. Suhoor, the pre-dawn meal, is equally important, as it provides nourishment to sustain the fast throughout the day.
In Dubai, Ramadan celebrations are known for their blend of tradition and luxury. As the city embraces its deep-rooted Arab customs, it simultaneously offers world-class experiences, making it a unique destination for those looking to celebrate Ramadan in style.
Jumeirah Beach Hotel – Ramadan Garden
Timings:
- Iftar: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
- Suhoor: 9:30 PM – 1:00 AM
Price:
- Iftar: AED 310 per person (50% off for children aged 4-11)
- Suhoor: AED 210 per person
Nestled within the lush surroundings of Janat al Bahar, the Ramadan Garden at Jumeirah Beach Hotel offers a tranquil setting for those looking to break their fast in a serene atmosphere. This garden provides unobstructed views of the iconic Burj Al Arab, making it the perfect backdrop for an Iftar gathering under the starlit sky. With live oud and qunan music, the ambiance is one of sophistication and tranquility.
The Iftar experience at the Ramadan Garden includes a selection of live stations, where guests can enjoy a variety of mezze, main dishes, and refreshing Ramadan juices. For those who wish to indulge further, the option to enjoy fresh juices, tea, coffee, and soft drinks is available at an additional cost. The Suhoor offering features local delicacies such as Mixed Grill, Ouzi, and Shawarma, ensuring a delightful and varied experience. Guests can also unwind in the cozy shisha lounge as they continue their celebration of the month’s spirit.
For a more intimate setting, Private Majlis are available for Iftar and Suhoor, offering exclusive views of the Burj Al Arab and the Arabian Gulf. This private experience can accommodate up to 20 guests for a minimum spend of AED 7,000. Whether you opt for the garden’s vibrant atmosphere or the Majlis’ elegant seclusion, Jumeirah Beach Hotel promises an unforgettable Ramadan experience.
SUSHISAMBA
Day and Timing:
- Sunday to Thursday: 6 PM – 2 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 6 PM – 3 AM
SUSHISAMBA Dubai presents a stunning fusion of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisines, offering an à la carte Iftar experience that brings together flavors from across the globe. Located at the Palm Jumeirah, the venue’s panoramic views of Ain Dubai and the Palm make for a breathtaking setting as the sun sets.
For Iftar, SUSHISAMBA offers a complimentary SAMBARETTI – a smoothie shot made from Lyre’s Amaretti, yuzu juice, coconut milk, and almond syrup – served alongside a date to break the fast. The restaurant’s unique fusion menu includes options for every taste, from fresh sushi rolls to Peruvian ceviche and Brazilian barbecue. Guests can also enjoy a variety of mocktails and traditional Ramadan beverages to complement their meals.
The warm, inviting ambiance of SUSHISAMBA makes it an ideal choice for groups or couples looking to experience Iftar in a trendy, chic environment while enjoying magnificent views of Dubai’s skyline. The fusion menu also offers a new perspective on traditional Iftar dishes, blending global influences in a way that reflects Dubai’s cultural diversity.
Zabeel House The Greens
Timings:
- Family-style Iftar: From sundown to 9:00 PM
- Private Iftar: From sundown to 9:00 PM
Price:
- Iftar sharing-style set menu: AED 155 per person
- Private group Iftar: AED 185 per person
At Zabeel House The Greens, guests are treated to a casual yet elegant Iftar experience at Social Company, where a family-style set menu takes center stage. This sharing-style menu brings together Middle Eastern and North African flavors, providing an authentic and hearty Iftar meal. The meal includes everything from amuse bouche and cold mezze to rich, satisfying mains and traditional desserts.
For larger groups, a private setting is available across various venues within the hotel, including the Study Private Rooms or the outdoor terrace of Lah Lah, the hotel’s famous Pan-Asian restaurant. The Iftar buffet at these private locations includes live stations, such as a Mixed Grill Station, and can be customized based on group preferences.
The warm and cozy atmosphere of Zabeel House The Greens makes it the ideal venue for families, friends, or even corporate events. The relaxed yet refined environment, combined with delicious food, offers a great way to reflect on the spirit of Ramadan.
Raffles Dubai – Ramadan Offerings
Azur Iftar
Timings:
- Sunset to 10:00 PM
Price:
- AED 245 per person (including Ramadan juices, coffee, and tea)
- AED 295 for a private garden cabana (minimum of 4 guests)
For a sophisticated Iftar experience, Azur at Raffles Dubai offers a buffet that celebrates the flavors of the Middle East with live Arabic stations, including grilled meats and fish. Guests can savor a wide array of hot and cold mezze, traditional salads, and comforting dishes that evoke the nostalgia of Ramadan celebrations past.
The venue also offers private garden cabanas, perfect for a more intimate setting. These cabanas are ideal for small groups, as they come with exclusive table service and a curated selection of dishes. The tranquil garden setting adds a sense of calm to the Iftar experience, creating a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and connection.
Suhoor at Raffles Garden
Timings:
- 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Raffles Dubai offers a serene Suhoor experience in its lush Raffles Garden, where guests can enjoy a selection of Middle Eastern delicacies while reflecting under the night sky. The à la carte menu features an array of Suhoor favorites, and guests can also opt for shisha to enhance the experience. The tranquil garden provides the perfect setting for a quiet moment of reflection before the new day begins.
Alaya – Traditional Dining with a Chic Twist
Timings:
- Daily from sunset
Located in the Gate Village of DIFC, Alaya offers a chic yet traditional Iftar experience, combining classic Ramadan dishes with a modern touch. Start your meal with a selection of dates and lentil soup, followed by flavorful dips like creamy hummus, baba ghanoush, and fattoush salad. For mains, guests can opt for lamb shank or grilled chicken, and the meal concludes with a choice of traditional desserts like baklava or Umm Ali. Alaya’s elegant setting and sophisticated atmosphere make it an ideal spot for a stylish Iftar gathering.
Price: AED 300 per person
Booking Info:
- Tel: +971 4 570 6289
- Website: Alaya DIFC
Nazcaa – A Peruvian Twist on Iftar
Timings:
- Daily from sunset
If you’re looking for a unique twist on Iftar, Nazcaa at Address Dubai Mall offers a special Peruvian-inspired set menu. The meal begins with a flavorful kabocha cream soup, followed by a choice of main dishes such as rib-eye steak or corn-fed baby chicken with arroz chaufa. For dessert, guests can indulge in traditional kunafa with butterscotch ice cream or opt for a seasonal fruit platter. This fusion of Peruvian flavors with traditional Ramadan touches provides a refreshing and exciting alternative for those looking to try something new during the holy month.
Price: AED 250 per person
Booking Info:
- Tel: +971 4 542 4200
- Website: Nazcaa
African Queen – An Iftar with African Flavors
Timings:
- Daily from sunset to 21:00
For a more adventurous Iftar, head to African Queen at J1 Beach. Offering a menu that combines African flavors with traditional Ramadan staples, this trendy restaurant invites guests to break their fast with dishes like sweet potato hummus, homemade lasagna, and African curry. The setting, with its laid-back beachside atmosphere, offers a unique and vibrant backdrop for your Ramadan feast.
Price: AED 350 per person
Booking Info:
- Tel: +971 4 570 5546
- Website: African Queen Restaurant
Casa Amor – A Luxurious Iftar by the Sea
Timings:
- Daily from 18:30 to 20:00
Casa Amor at Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah offers a luxurious Iftar experience by the sea. The meal begins with a milk sharbat and soup, followed by shrimp and salad. Guests can choose from mains like pasta with beef ragout or Australian Black Angus rib-eye. For dessert, opt for the traditional Umm Ali or a decadent chocolate and hazelnut delight. This exclusive venue provides a serene setting with stunning ocean views, perfect for a relaxed and intimate Iftar.
Price: AED 285 per person
Booking Info:
- Tel: +971 4 777 2223
- Website: Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah
Whether you’re seeking a traditional Iftar with live music or a more contemporary dining experience, Dubai offers an impressive range of options for both Iftar and Suhoor. From the serene gardens of Jumeirah Beach Hotel to the innovative fusion dishes at SUSHISAMBA and Nazcaa, there’s something for everyone during this special time of the year. These venues not only offer delicious food but also create unforgettable experiences that capture the essence of Ramadan. As you plan your Ramadan gatherings, consider visiting one of these top dining destinations to enjoy the best of what Dubai has to offer during this holy month. With the right blend of ambiance, culinary mastery, and hospitality, your Iftar and Suhoor experiences will become cherished memories for years to come.
Dubai offers a wide array of Iftar and Suhoor experiences during Ramadan, catering to all tastes and preferences. From the luxurious settings of Jumeirah Beach Hotel to the contemporary fusion flavors at SUSHISAMBA, each restaurant captures the essence of the holy month in its own unique way. Whether you’re looking to enjoy traditional Middle Eastern flavors, explore international cuisines, or find a tranquil space to reflect, Dubai’s Ramadan offerings provide the perfect setting for celebration and connection. This Ramadan, indulge in the city’s exceptional dining experiences while embracing the true spirit of togetherness and reflection.
