Things To Do This Ramadan In The UAE: Iftars, Suhoor, Markets, And Offers

2026-02-16 03:20:16

(MENAFN- Khaleej Times)

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

By:
Waad Barakat

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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.

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.

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.

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.