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Your definitive Ramadan 2026 itinerary: What to do, where to go, and what to try across the UAE
From night markets and family activities to iftars, shopping festivals, and community events, here is a guide to what's happening
- PUBLISHED: Mon 16 Feb 2026, 9:39 AM
The holy month of Ramadan can pass quickly, and with so many events, offers, and experiences happening across the UAE, it's easy to miss out. From night markets and family activities to iftars, shopping festivals, and community events, here is a practical guide to what is happening this Ramadan.
Ramadan in the sky?
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For those looking to try something different this month, UAE residents can access limited-time Ramadan rates on two popular adventure experiences, available from February 13 until the end of Ramadan.
At Skydive Dubai, residents can receive Dh 300 off tandem skydives over Palm Jumeirah when booking online. The experience includes photos and video, with operations starting from 7am daily.
Meanwhile, XLine Dubai is offering rides at a reduced rate of Dh600. The one kilometre zipline runs above Dubai Marina, with sessions operating between 10am to 12.20pm and 2pm to 5pm. The experience also includes digital photos and video.
The offers are available to UAE residents only, with a valid Emirates ID required.
Family evenings, markets and shows near the Creek
Dubai Festival City Mall and Festival Plaza are hosting a range of evening experiences for families and visitors, running until March 23.
At Festival Bay, the night begins at sunset with the traditional Ramadan cannon marking iftar, followed by an open-air Ramadan market and majlis setting along the waterfront, open daily from 5pm to 1am. From 7pm onwards, the area comes alive with the hourly IMAGINE Ramadan projection show, alongside live cultural performances such as oud, qanun and Arabic percussion, as well as lantern parades and roaming entertainment.
Visitors can also watch daily drone shows at 7.30pm and 10.30pm, while weekday evenings between 8pm and 10pm include complimentary giveaways such as dates and sweets.
At Festival Plaza, the focus shifts to family friendly and interactive activities. Running from March 1 to March 23 between 4pm and 10pm, the programme includes hands-on kids workshops such as pottery painting and embroidery, a traditional henna station, and Arabic coffee and dates served from 7pm, creating a relaxed Ramadan atmosphere for visitors.
Sharjah Ramadan Festival across the emirate
Ramadan football tournaments, youth sports events, Qur’an recitation competitions and cultural activities are all part of the Sharjah Ramadan Festival 2026, which kicked off on February 15 and runs until March 25.
Taking place across malls, retail centres and public spaces, the emirate-wide festival brings together shopping promotions, raffle draws and family focused activities that reflect the spirit of the month. Visitors can also explore pop ups featuring local entrepreneurs, small businesses and productive families.
One of the key highlights is the Ramadan Nights exhibition at Expo Centre, Sharjah, where shoppers can find seasonal discounts across a wide range of products while also taking part in prize draws and interactive experiences.
Weekend Ramadan nights at Expo City Dubai
If you are looking for something more relaxed than the usual majlis or hotel tent, Terra at Expo City Dubai is hosting a weekend pop up called Ramadan Nights.
Running every Saturday and Sunday from February 21 to March 15, the space opens from 4pm, making it an easy pre-iftar or early evening plan. Expect a casual outdoor setup with gardens, games and plenty of space to sit and unwind with friends or family.
Entry is Dh 20, which gives access to the activities, while Dh 80 includes a simple Ramadan meal with dates, laban and biryani. There is also an à la carte menu available on site for those who prefer to pick their own dishes.
It is not a formal tent or buffet experience, just a simple community style evening under the lights, designed for anyone who wants to enjoy the Ramadan atmosphere without the crowds or high prices.
Waterfront Iftar
For a serene yet stylish way to break your fast, head to the Banquet Terrace at Vida Dubai Marina & Yacht Club, where calm marina views set the tone for a relaxed Ramadan evening. This waterfront Iftar blends chic maritime vibes with the warmth of traditional hospitality, offering a buffet of classic Arabic favourites with a modern twist. Ideal for families, couples, and corporate gatherings, the setting promises scenic sunset views without the usual city rush, making it a refined escape by the water. Throughout Ramadan, 6.30pm–8.30pm; Dh215 per adult, Dh108 per child (6–12 years).
Small touches to bring the Ramadan mood home
If you are hosting this Ramadan, Lifestyle at Centrepoint has launched seasonal home collections focused on making everyday gatherings feel a little more special.
The range includes practical hosting pieces and simple decorative items such as date bowls and serving sets, tea and glassware collections, star- and moon-themed platters, as well as candles, diffusers and oil burners. Readymade gift sets are also available for those looking for easy options for friends and family.
Golf course iftar
Golden skies and sweeping fairway views create a peaceful Ramadan setting at Origins in Vida Emirates Hills, where Iftar feels like a countryside escape in the heart of the city. The open-air ambience, soft sunset glow, and laid-back atmosphere make it perfect for those who prefer a slower, more meaningful evening. Guests can enjoy a generous buffet of Arabic favourites with a contemporary touch — ideal for families, friends, and even corporate gatherings looking for a refined yet relaxed dining experience. Throughout Ramadan, 6.30pm–8.30pm; Dh215 per adult, Dh108 per child (6–12 years).
Ramadan Iftar evenings
This Ramadan, Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre invites guests to break their fast with two distinct Iftar experiences designed for meaningful gatherings. At Yalumba, diners can enjoy a traditional “urban oasis” setting with indoor and garden seating, a lavish buffet of Arabic and international favourites, live Arabic music, and classics such as dates, mezze, grills and desserts (Dh185 per adult). For a relaxed open-air alternative, Méridien Village Terrace offers a serene outdoor atmosphere with ambient lighting and gentle evening breezes, alongside a thoughtfully curated Iftar spread (Dh175 per adult). Both experiences run daily from sunset to 8.30pm throughout Ramadan, making it a perfect destination for togetherness and reflection.
Late-night Suhoor spots away from the rush
Ramadan offers are not just limited to iftar. For those who prefer a slower pace later in the night, several hotels across the city are offering Suhoor experiences that start well after peak traffic and evening crowds.
At Solara, Address Dubai Mall, Suhoor is served from 10pm onwards throughout Ramadan. The experience features a set menu that blends traditional favourites with contemporary dishes, accompanied by live oud music in a relaxed lounge setting overlooking Downtown.
Price: Dh 275 per person.
Nearby, Ewaan at Palace Downtown offers a more traditional setting inspired by Ottoman design. Guests can choose between a Suhoor buffet with live cooking stations and desserts from Thursday to Saturday, or a set menu from Sunday to Wednesday, both available from 10pm onwards.
Price: Dh 275 for the buffet, Dh 225 for the set menu.
Refined Ramadan retreats across the UAE
This Ramadan, Address Hotels and Resorts as well as Palace Hotels and Resorts are offering a thoughtfully curated “Ramadan Exclusive with Iftar” experience across some of the UAE’s most sought-after city and coastal destinations. From the skyline sophistication of Address Downtown, Address Dubai Mall, and Address Sky View to the serene, palatial charm of Palace Downtown, and the waterfront calm of Address Creek Harbour and Palace Dubai Creek Harbour, guests can embrace the spirit of reflection in elegant surroundings. For a tranquil seaside escape, Address Beach Resort Fujairah and Palace Beach Resort Fujairah provide a peaceful coastal setting framed by sea and mountains. Available from February 18 to March 18, 2026, the special stay package blends refined luxury, meaningful togetherness, and exclusive savings for families seeking a memorable Ramadan getaway.
A Ramadan dessert twist worth trying
If you are looking to try something different this month, neighbourhood café Spill the Bean is serving a special take on a traditional favourite.
The café is offering a gluten-free millet aseeda for Dh 28, available until the end of the month. The dessert, usually made with wheat and dates for special occasions, is reimagined with saffron infused ghee and date syrup.
It is a small, local option for those looking to explore seasonal flavours beyond the usual Ramadan sweets.
Ramadan dining at The Beach, JBR
Celebrate the spirit of togetherness this Ramadan at The Beach, JBR, where a vibrant line-up of iftar and suhoor experiences awaits alongside exclusive retail offers. From indulgent multi-course Indian flavours at Bombay Bungalow (Dh125) to a generous Greek sharing feast at Eat Greek (Dh175 per person for four guests), there’s something for every gathering. Savour Turkish set menus at Bosporus, beachfront classics at Bake My Day, and curated set menus at La Mezcaleria and Awani, which also offers a suhoor tray. Family-style comfort dishes await at Babushka, while Buffalo Wild Wings serves an all-you-can-eat wings iftar (Dh99). For casual bites, Operation Falafel features affordable iftar and suhoor trays starting from Dh49.
Ladurée’s 1001 nights Ramadan collection
Ladurée marks Ramadan 2026 with a limited-edition “1001 Nights” collection that blends French elegance with Middle Eastern flavours, perfect for gifting and elevated Iftar and Suhoor gatherings. Highlights include a Ramadan-exclusive Date, Honey and Cinnamon macaron presented in bespoke dark blue and gold gift boxes, a sophisticated date and spiced coffee pastry and cake designed as a striking centrepiece, and a Balaleet French toast that reimagines the Emirati classic with brioche, saffron, pistachio praline and rose notes. Available throughout Ramadan across all UAE outlets, the collection offers a luxurious, thoughtfully curated way to celebrate the spirit of generosity and togetherness. Dh126 for a box of 6 macarons, Dh222 for 12, Dh313 for 18 and Dh692 for the 42 piece box, available across all UAE locations.
Waad Barakat is a Special Correspondent covering security topics, from law enforcement to local courts. With a keen eye for human interest stories, she hopes to blend it all with unique Gen Z-inspired content.