Holidays in Dubai during Ramadan 2023
Experience the richness of Dubai’s culture during Ramadan
Ramadan is a captivating time to immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry of the UAE. It’s a time when Dubai comes alive with festivals and exhibitions, offering everyone the chance to soak up the festive atmosphere. Tourists are also treated to special offers that include discounts, sales and limited edition collections from prominent fashion brands. These opportunities ensure good prices on gifts. The season is also a culinary delight, with traditional dishes served in festive surroundings. This article is your guide to the top destinations in Dubai during Ramadan, including shopping, cultural encounters and gastronomic adventures.
Enriching activities during Ramadan in Dubai
Ramadan offers an ideal window to discover the authentic culture of the Emirates during your holiday in Dubai. Stroll through beautifully decorated streets, savour the flavours of local cuisine during traditional Iftar and Suhoor experiences, and immerse yourself in the heart of the city’s cultural centres. At the same time, many shopping malls offer deep discounts on clothing, electronics, furniture and more.
Please note: Ramadan in Dubai runs from 23 March to 21 April, with 21–24 April being the designated public holiday.
Retail delights in Dubai
Throughout Ramadan, you can expect significant discounts of up to 85%. Major retail outlets and renowned brands, including Amazon AE, Noon and Carrefour, will be launching massive sales. Unbeatable deals cover a wide range of items: clothing, footwear, accessories, electronics, appliances and food.
On the fashion front, both Namshi UAE and Level Shoes are offering discounts of up to 60%, while Sivvi is offering up to 70% off. Renowned global brands are also launching exclusive capsule collections that are only available during Ramadan. Throughout the holy month, you can purchase exceptional clothing for men and women, accessories, fragrances and cosmetics. For even greater savings, use zoutons.ae promo codes when making your purchases.
Amazon’s online emporium is offering a 50% discount on appliances. Similar promotions grace the aisles of Carrefour, which offers discounts of up to 65% on refrigerators, televisions and air conditioners, and substantial discounts of 40% to 60% on groceries and personal care products.
Notable destinations to explore
Quranic Park, Ripe Market, Dubai World Cup and Etihad Museum are among the top 5 entertainment and cultural attractions in Dubai worth exploring during Ramadan.
Dubai World Cup
This equestrian extravaganza marks the pinnacle of the emirate’s horseracing season and offers tourists and residents alike the chance to watch world-class thoroughbreds in action. As well as the thrilling racing, guests can enjoy impeccable hospitality and exclusive culinary delights. Ticket prices range from AED 20 (USD 5.5) to AED 5,750 (USD 1,565).
Quranic Park
A haven for gaining insight into Islam and its holy book, the Quran. This sprawling 64-hectare park boasts picturesque natural areas and fascinating attractions. The Cave of Miracles features interactive exhibits illustrating the wonders of the holy book, while the Greenhouse houses 29 plants and trees of religious significance, including maize, olive trees, basil, barley and pomegranates. Visitors can also sunbathe by the lake and in the 12 gardens, each of which has deep religious symbolism.
Opening hours: 09:00 – 21:00, daily.
Global Village
This famous entertainment centre is open throughout Ramadan until 29 April. With 27 pavilions to explore this year, visitors can enjoy a wide range of leisure activities. The carnival boasts 175 thrilling rides, a variety of restaurants showcasing global cuisines and entertainment galore – with animators, singers, dancers and stunt performers.
Opening hours: Sunday to Wednesday, 16:00 to 12:00; Thursday to Saturday, 16:00 to 01:00.
Etihad Museum
Located on Jumeirah, this historic institution commemorates the signing of the UAE Constitution in 1971. The contemporary building offers a wealth of insight through photographs, films and interactive exhibitions. The museum includes a library, an education centre, temporary exhibition spaces and a restaurant.
Opening hours: 10:00 – 20:00, daily.
Ripe Market
The acclaimed Ripe Market in Academy Park transforms into a vibrant, festive pavilion every weekend after sundown in spring, with an outdoor cinema, bouncy castles, live music and more. Visitors enjoy iftars, browse gifts from local artisans, and immerse themselves in entertainment and henna artistry, while children take part in exciting activities.
Indulge in local cuisine
Ramadan comes with specific regulations that prohibit eating and drinking in public places across the emirate from sunrise to sunset. However, tourists in Dubai can take advantage of traditional dining options: morning suhoor and evening iftar, which are available at almost all eateries.
Please note: Some cafes and restaurants in Dubai remain closed until sunset. Please check the official websites of F&B establishments for exact opening hours.
Dubai Opera
Throughout Ramadan, one of the emirate’s premier attractions hosts iftars with a buffet of local Arabic and international dishes, including meats, desserts, juices and more. The evening is complemented by live classical music and enchanting Arabesque melodies.
Seating begins at 18:00. Guests can reserve tables for 2, 4, 6, 8 or 10 people or opt for a majlis that seats 12. Ticket prices range from AED 570 (USD 155) to AED 3,600 (USD 980).
Asateer at Atlantis, The Palm
Asateer restaurant takes guests on a culinary journey through various Muslim cultures, including Moroccan, Lebanese, Persian and Emirati cuisine. Both the Suhoor and Iftar menus are enlivened by musical performances. The extensive menu includes grilled meats, seafood, shawarmas, hot and cold starters, soups and delicious desserts.
Iftar costs range from AED 240 (USD 65) to AED 260 (USD 71) per person.
Hatta at the Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers
Hatta Restaurant invites you to its Iftar gathering, where the chef showcases tantalising specialities such as lamb, harrah and chicken topkapi, alongside an array of mezzes. The buffet is a cornucopia of dates, sushi, oriental and European sweets and soft drinks.
Prices are AED 179 (USD 49) per person, AED 85 (USD 23) for children aged 6 to 12 and free for children under 6.
With these enriching activities and culinary delights, your Ramadan experience in Dubai promises to be unforgettable.