Ramadan is a holy month in the Islamic calendar, during which Muslims worldwide fast from dawn to sunset.
For visitors to Dubai, it is important to be aware of this month’s customs and traditions, especially when dining out.
Many people wonder if eating in Dubai during Ramadan is possible, as restaurants and cafes often have different operating hours and restrictions.
In this article, we will explore what visitors to Dubai can expect when dining out during Ramadan and provide tips on making the most of the experience.
What is Ramadhan in Dubai?
Ramadan is a holy month in the Islamic calendar observed by Muslims worldwide, including in Dubai.
During this month, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, abstaining from food, drinks, smoking, and other physical needs during the fasting hours.
In Dubai, Ramadan is a reflection, prayer, and community time.
It’s an essential time for Muslims to deepen their faith and connection with Allah.
Many Muslims spend the month of Ramadan in the mosque, performing Taraweeh prayers and reciting the Quran.
Ramadan is also a time of family gatherings and community iftars, which are meals taken to break the fast at sunset.
It’s a time to come together and share traditional Arabic cuisines, such as dates, juices, soups, and sweets.
During Ramadan in Dubai, the city has a unique atmosphere, with vibrant decorations, special Ramadan bazaars, and cultural activities.
The streets come alive at night with bustling crowds, and it’s a time to experience the local culture and traditions.
Can You Eat In Dubai During Ramadan?
Yes, you can eat in Dubai during Ramadan, but certain rules and regulations must be followed.
Muslims fast from dawn to sunset during Ramadan, so respecting their customs and traditions is important.
Restaurants and cafes in Dubai are open during Ramadan, but they usually operate with reduced hours.
Some may be closed during the day and open only in the evening.
It’s essential to check the timings of the restaurant you plan to visit beforehand to avoid disappointment.
Non-Muslims are allowed to eat during the day, but it’s important to do so in private or designated areas.
Eating or drinking in public during fasting hours is strictly prohibited and can result in legal issues.
Hotels and restaurants in Dubai offer Iftar, a meal served after sunset that breaks the fast.
Iftar is a significant part of Ramadan and an excellent opportunity to experience traditional Arabic cuisine.
Many hotels and restaurants offer Iftar buffets, which are popular among locals and tourists.
It’s important to respect the local customs and traditions during Ramadan.
Dress modestly, be patient, and avoid loud music and public displays of affection.
Engaging in any offensive behavior toward locals can result in legal issues.
Visitors to Dubai can eat during Ramadan, but it’s important to be mindful of the holy month’s customs and traditions.
Follow the rules and regulations, be respectful, and enjoy the unique experience of Ramadan in Dubai.
What foods are not allowed to eat in Dubai during Ramadan?
During Ramadan in Dubai, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, and certain foods are not allowed to be consumed during fasting hours.
Respecting these customs and traditions is important, even if you are not Muslim.
Here are some foods that are not allowed to be eaten in Dubai during Ramadan:
Food and drinks in public: Eating or drinking in public during fasting hours is illegal, even if you’re not Muslim.
It’s essential to refrain from consuming food and drinks in public during the day.
Pork: Muslims do not consume pork, and this rule is even more strictly enforced during Ramadan.
It’s important to avoid eating pork during Ramadan, even if it’s offered on the menu at a restaurant.
Alcohol: Alcohol is strictly prohibited during Ramadan, even for non-Muslims.
Smoking: Smoking is not permitted in public during Ramadan, even for non-Muslims.
Strongly scented foods: Foods with strong scents can be offensive to those fasting and trying to observe the traditions of Ramadan.
Which are the restaurant that offers food during Ramadhan in Dubai?
Many restaurants in Dubai offer food during Ramadan.
Still, it’s important to note that they usually operate with reduced hours during the day and are open only in the evening for Iftar.
Here are some of the top restaurants in Dubai that offer food during Ramadan:
Al Fanar Restaurant and Café: This Emirati restaurant serves traditional Arabic cuisine and is a popular spot for Iftar during Ramadan.
Located in Dubai Festival City Mall and Dubai Festival Plaza, Al Fanar offers a unique dining experience in a traditional Emirati setting.
The Majlis Dubai: Located at the Dubai World Trade Center, The Majlis Dubai offers a luxurious iftar experience with various Arabic and international dishes.
It’s a popular spot for business dinners and family gatherings during Ramadan.
The Palace Downtown Dubai: This luxury hotel offers a beautiful iftar buffet in a stunning setting overlooking the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain.
The Palace Downtown Dubai is known for its traditional Arabic cuisine and luxurious atmosphere.
Ewaan: Located in the Palace Downtown Dubai, Ewaan is a popular restaurant for Iftar during Ramadan.
It offers an extensive Arabic and international cuisine buffet in a beautiful setting with views of the Dubai Fountain.
Armani Hotel Dubai: This luxurious hotel offers a unique iftar experience in its beautiful Armani/Ballroom.
It offers a lavish buffet of Arabic and international cuisine and stunning views of the Dubai Fountain.
Conclusion
It is possible to eat in Dubai during Ramadan, but it’s essential to be mindful of the customs and traditions of the Muslim community.
Non-Muslims are expected to respect the holy month and refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours.
However, many restaurants in Dubai offer iftar meals after sunset, and it’s a great opportunity to try traditional Arabic cuisine and experience the local culture.
During Ramadan, the city of Dubai takes on a unique atmosphere with vibrant decorations, special Ramadan bazaars, and cultural activities.
It’s an excellent opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions while showing respect for the customs and traditions of the Muslim community.
Overall, it’s important to be aware of the do’s and don’ts during Ramadan, such as refraining from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours, dressing modestly, and respecting the local cultural traditions.
Doing so gives you a meaningful and enjoyable experience during Ramadan in Dubai.
Reference
- Dubai Travel Guide Tips During Ramadan. (n.d.). Holiday Travel India Pvt Ltd. https://www.holidaytravel.co/destination-dtl/dubai-travel-guide-tips-during-ramadan.htm
- Bisht, K. (2021, November 22). Here’s Why A Trip During Ramadan In Dubai Is A Blissful Experience. Ramadan in Dubai: Guide to Turn It Into an Epic Holiday in 2022. https://traveltriangle.com/blog/ramadan-in-dubai/
- Amar, N. (2015, May 27). Everything You Should Know Before Visiting Dubai During Ramadan. The Boho Chica. https://thebohochica.com/visiting-dubai-during-ramadan/
- Guide to restaurants open during Ramadan | Visit Dubai. (n.d.). Guide to Restaurants Open During Ramadan | Visit Dubai. https://www.visitdubai.com/en/articles/open-restaurants-in-ramadan