When Ramadan begins in 2024, Dubai becomes a lively and diverse place filled with culture, community, and delicious food. One of the most important parts of this special month is the evening meal called Iftar, which is when people break their fast. If you’re looking for an extraordinary Iftar experience this year, don’t worry! Dubai has a wide variety of options for every taste and budget.
You can choose to have a traditional Arabic feast under the night sky, try a modern twist on classic Iftar food, or enjoy a stunning view while you eat. This guide will help you find the best places to celebrate Iftar in Dubai during Ramadan.
So, gather your family and friends and let’s go!
But First…What is Iftar?
Iftar is the evening meal that Muslims enjoy during the holy month of Ramadan. Ramadan is a significant time for Muslims, during which they fast from dawn to sunset. Now, Iftar is the meal that breaks the fast after sunset. It is a special time for families and communities to come together and share a meal.
Muslims typically start their iftar by eating dates and drinking water, following the tradition of Prophet Muhammad. After that, they enjoy a full meal that usually includes a variety of dishes, including soups, salads, main courses, and desserts.
Iftar is not just about having a meal; it is a special tradition that is deeply rooted in community and tradition. During Iftar, families come together, friends reunite, and even strangers share tables filled with warmth and hospitality. However, in the bustling city of Dubai, there is a remarkable chance to experience Iftar in its restaurants, where something magical happens beyond just the food on the plate.
So why not give it a try? Check out some of the best places to celebrate Iftar in Dubai below.
7 Best Places to Celebrate Iftar in Dubai
Al Khaima
- Location: Al Mamsha Street, Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Hours: 6 PM-12 AM
- Contact No. : +97143165550
At Al Khaima, you can have a wonderful experience for breaking your fast during Ramadan. The restaurant offers outdoor dining where you can enjoy your meal in a pleasant setting. They have a wide range of traditional treats to choose from. To start your meal, you can enjoy delicious and filling soups.
After that, you can try a variety of cold and hot mezze, which include popular dishes like hummus, fattoush, muhammara, and cheese rolls. When it comes to the main courses, they have mouthwatering options like grilled lamb chops, freshly prepared Shawarma, whole lamb ouzi, and a special buffet corner with biryanis and various fish dishes. You can begin by savoring the appetizing mezze, and then treat yourself to the tender grilled lamb chops and flavorful Shawarma.
Atlantis, The Palm- Asateer
- Location: Crescent Rd – The Palm Jumeirah – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Hours: 6 PM- 2 AM
- Contact No. : +971 4 426 0800
This year, the famous Asateer Tent at Atlantis, The Palm is hosting a fantastic iftar event. Each night, a whopping 1,400 guests are welcomed to this quintessential celebration. The tent offers a beautiful blend of elegance and modernity in its ambience and decor.
Guests can indulge in a fusion buffet that showcases different theme nights, featuring a wide array of cuisines, including international, Arabesque (Monday), Turkish (Tuesday), Khaleeji (Thursday), Persian (Wednesday), and Traditional (Friday) dishes. There are various seating options available, including a Royal Majlis, four VIP Majlis areas, booth seating, and 120 dining tables. It’s a grand setting where you can enjoy a memorable iftar experience.
Note:
- Monday – Thursday, AED 270 per person
- Friday – Sunday, AED 290 per person
- Children aged 3 and below dine complimentary
- Sunset to 8:00 pm
LPM Restaurant & Bar
- Location: Gate Village No, 8 – DIFC – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Hours: 12–3:30 PM, 6 PM–1 AM
- Contact No. : +971 4 439 0505
Get ready for a luxurious iftar experience at the prestigious LPM Dubai, the haven of French Mediterranean flavours. Throughout the Holy Month, prepare to be tantalized by a rotating soup menu featuring butternut, cauliflower, panais, and a grand finale of carrot and cumin.
The delicious journey continues with iconic starters like creamy burrata embraced by cherry tomatoes and basil, succulent prawns drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice, and crispy salt cod croquettes accompanied by a roasted pepper relish.
As for the main course, LPM has elevated the feast with delectable creations, including homemade rigatoni pasta drenched in pesto, tantalising Chilean bass, and a succulent confit lamb shoulder that will leave you craving more.
M One
- Location: Al Khail 2 – Barsha Heights – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Hours: 6:30 AM- 11:30 PM
- Contact No. : +971 58 606 0831
Head over to M One for a relaxed and delicious Ramadan buffet. They have a wide variety of dishes to choose from, including hot and cold mezze, slow-roasted lamb ouzi, live shawarma, and even a falafel station. Save room for dessert because they also offer traditional Arabic sweets and tasty Ramadan juices.
M One is an all-day dining place where you can enjoy different meals from breakfast to dinner. They also have special theme nights every day, like Indian, Italian, Mexican, Arabic, BBQ, Asian, and Seafood, so there’s always something different to try.
If you’re looking for a place to relax, you can sit outside and enjoy the nice atmosphere while you eat.
Rang Mahal
- Location: JW Marriott Marquis Dubai – Sheikh Zayed Rd – Business Bay – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Hours: 6 PM–12 AM
- Contact No. : +971 4 414 3000
Experience the new Rang Mahal, where the flavours of India come alive. This Ramadan, enjoy a diverse menu featuring hot and cold mezze, traditional Indian delicacies, vegetarian options, and regional sweets. Located on the 4th floor of JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, Rang Mahal offers an inviting ambience for casual dinners or romantic date nights.
Indulge in dishes like the royal Minced Lamb Kebab, the captivating Mangalorean Ghee Roast Prawns, and the succulent Baked Whole Lamb Leg. With carefully curated beverages to complement the flavours, Rang Mahal promises a culinary journey like no other.
Bull & Bear
- Location: Burj Daman – Floor 18 – Al Mustaqbal St – DIFC – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Hours: 7–11 AM, 12:30–4 PM, 7 PM–12 AM
- Contact No. : +971 4 515 9888
Experience the delightful flavours of Bull & Bear’s Ramadan menu, where an Arabic-inspired twist awaits. Their à la carte iftar offers a selection of delectable dishes, including Josper grilled flatbread with dips, red lentil soup, and a special iftar mixed grill. Choose from tantalizing options like lamb melanzane and homemade Mediterranean oriental rice. For a sweet ending, indulge in cheesy kunafa, Arabian date sticky toffee pudding, and carrot-sliced baklava.
Situated on the 18th floor of Waldorf Astoria Dubai International Financial Centre, Bull & Bear is a renowned steakhouse that carries the legacy of its iconic New York counterpart. Immerse yourself in the al-fresco ambience of the terrace, where you can enjoy their signature steak tartare and New York Cheesecake.
Loumi Restaurant
- Location: Burj Daman – Floor 18 – Al Mustaqbal St – DIFC – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Hours: 7–11 AM, 12:30–4 PM, 7 PM–12 AM
- Contact No. : +971 4 515 9888
Loumi is a fantastic all-day dining restaurant at Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai, where you can indulge in various delectable Arabic, local, and international dishes. With live cooking stations, an extensive selection of desserts, and refreshing drinks, Loumi ensures a delightful dining experience for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Customers rave about the diverse food options available. From Indian and Arabic cuisine to European dishes, the restaurant offers a great variety. The service received high praise, with excellent food and a large buffet offering healthy choices. Customers also appreciate the beautiful ambience of the restaurant and highlighted the sumptuous food as a standout feature. Additionally, the staff was described as amazing.
Tips to Enjoy the Iftar Experience
- Start small: Begin with dates and water, following the tradition of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This helps ease your digestive system after a long fast.
- Savor the flavors: Take your time, enjoy the company, and appreciate the food. This is not just a meal, but a time for reflection and gratitude.
- Share and connect: Use Iftar as an opportunity to bond with family and friends. Share stories, jokes, and meaningful conversations.
- Be mindful of overindulging: It’s easy to go overboard after a long fast. Focus on quality over quantity, and choose healthier options, especially early in the meal.
- Give back: Consider volunteering at a mosque or charity kitchen to help those less fortunate and enhance the spirit of Ramadan.
Wrapping Up
Whether you seek an authentic Arabian feast under the stars, a modern culinary adventure, or a family-friendly gathering, the city offers abundant experiences to break your fast and celebrate the holy month.
Remember, choosing the perfect iftar is personal. Consider your budget, desired ambience, and culinary preferences. From opulent buffets boasting international delights to intimate settings showcasing regional gems, there’s an iftar waiting to create lasting memories. So, explore the recommendations, embrace the spirit of Ramadan, and gather with loved ones to enjoy the magic of Dubai’s vibrant iftar scene. Ramadan Kareem!
