From luxurious tents under the stars to conceptual dinners by Michelin-starred chefs—we’ve gathered the most vibrant and delicious spots, allowing you to fully experience the magic of the Holy Month in the Middle East’s premier metropolis.
As the Holy Month of Ramadan approaches, Dubai undergoes a stunning transformation. The city’s rhythm slows down during the day and comes alive at sunset, when the air fills with the aromas of spices, the sounds of prayers, and joyful gatherings. The central events of this time are iftar—the eagerly awaited evening meal after the daytime fast—and suhoor—the pre-dawn meal. Forget simply satisfying hunger: iftar and suhoor are genuine cultural rituals, moments meant to be shared with loved ones. For travelers, it’s a unique opportunity to experience Arab hospitality firsthand, explore the emirate’s gastronomic diversity, and see Dubai in an entirely new, soulful, and festive light. From grand buffets in legendary hotels to cozy family-run restaurants, our guide will help you find your perfect iftar and suhoor amidst this kaleidoscope of flavors.
How to navigate prices: To make things easier for you, we use the following conventions: $ — up to 100 AED, $$ — 100-200 AED, $$$ — 200-300 AED, $$$$ — 300-500 AED. Prices are listed per adult. Important: Prices are approximate and subject to change. We recommend always confirming the current cost and conditions when booking.
Icons of Luxury: When Iftar Becomes an Event
Here, iftar is not just dinner—it's a theatrical performance. In this section, we've gathered places where the word "luxury" takes on a real scale: from tents as large as ballrooms to dinners beneath crystal chandeliers reminiscent of an opera house. This is the choice for those ready to invest in one unforgettable memory that will outshine a dozen ordinary dinners. Get your evening attire ready—we're heading to places where Ramadan is celebrated with imperial flair.
Atlantis, The Palm: The Legendary Asateer Tent
Perhaps the most famous iftar in Dubai takes place in the grand Asateer tent located on the grounds of the iconic Atlantis, The Palm resort. It's a true gastronomic blockbuster: dozens of stations offering dishes from Arab, Indian, Asian, and international cuisines, separate dessert corners that dazzle the eyes, and live music creating a festive atmosphere. Large families, tourists eager to experience the famed Dubai grandeur, and groups of friends all flock here.
- Vibe: A Hollywood-style celebration.
- On the plates: A gastronomic journey around the world.
- Who to go with: With an extended family to make an impression, or for your first taste of the scale of Dubai’s iftars.
- Budget: $$$$.
- Suhoor: Yes. Format: à la carte in a more relaxed setting within the same tent.
- Location: Atlantis, The Palm, Palm Jumeirah.
Tip for photographers: Try to arrive a bit early to leisurely soak up the resort atmosphere and snap a few photos against the backdrop of the hotel's famous arches before the tent reaches peak attendance.
Dubai Opera: Dinner Under the Vaults of Art
Having iftar in the main hall of one of the world’s most beautiful opera houses is an experience you won’t forget. Each year during Ramadan, the Dubai Opera ground floor transforms into an elegant banquet hall. Guests are treated to an exquisite buffet featuring Middle Eastern classics alongside international favorites, while the highlight of the evening is live instrumental music—gentle melodies of the oud and qanun accompanied by a string quartet. This is a place for connoisseurs of beauty, the perfect choice for a romantic evening or a prestigious gathering.
- Vibe: An evening at the Bolshoi Theatre.
- On the plates: An exquisite buffet with Middle Eastern flair.
- Who to go with: For a romantic dinner or a high-profile meeting accompanied by live music.
- Budget: $$$$.
- Suhoor: Not available.
- Location: Downtown Dubai.
Gastronomic Discoveries: Iftar with an Artisanal Twist
Leave traditional hummus and kebabs for another night. This selection is for those who seek intrigue rather than tradition in their iftar. Here, you won't find classic buffets, but instead discover creative cuisine, bold flavor combinations, and a stylish, modern ambiance. If you're ready for gastronomic experiments, this is the place for you.
Amelia Dubai: A Steampunk-Inspired Fusion Journey
Amelia Dubai transports its guests to another reality. A trendy, cosmopolitan atmosphere infused with steampunk and art deco elements provides the perfect backdrop for a culinary adventure. Instead of a buffet, they offer an elegant set menu where Japanese cuisine meets Peruvian flavors, and Mediterranean notes add an air of intrigue. It's the ideal spot for a stylish get-together with friends or a romantic dinner, where every dish is a discovery.
- Atmosphere: Trendy, cosmopolitan, with elements of steampunk and Art Deco.
- Cuisine: Fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine (Nikkei) with Mediterranean accents.
- Perfect for: A stylish get-together with friends, a romantic dinner for the discerning palate.
- Budget: $$$$.
- Suhoor: Yes. Format: à la carte with light snacks and desserts.
- Location: Address Sky View, Downtown Dubai.
Our tip: Book your table well in advance—this is one of the trendiest spots in town, and available seats for iftar disappear instantly.
Gastronomy Bar DUO: Michelin Chic with a Sunset View
For those who prioritize high-quality cuisine above all else, gastronomy bar DUO, led by a Michelin-starred chef, offers iftar in the form of an exquisite set menu. Traditional Arabic dishes are absent here; instead, you’ll find a delicate interplay of European techniques: expect perfect balance, unexpected combinations, and presentations worthy of a food blogger’s Instagram feed. Add to that a stylish minimalist interior and a stunning view of the sunset over Dubai Creek Harbour, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a calm and delicious evening.
- Atmosphere: Stylish, modern, gastronomic.
- Cuisine: Contemporary European.
- Perfect for: Gourmet dinners, a romantic rendezvous in a tranquil setting.
- Budget: $$$
- Suhoor: No, a special suhoor menu is not offered.
- Location: Dubai Creek Harbour.
Restaurant XU: Cantonese Exoticism in the Heart of Dubai
Who said iftar has to be exclusively Arabic? Restaurant XU at Kempinski Mall of the Emirates breaks stereotypes and offers a unique set menu in the Cantonese style. Guests are in for a journey through the flavors of modern China: from the most delicate dim sum and aromatic soups to exquisite main courses and desserts. It’s a wonderful opportunity to try something new and unusual, especially convenient after a day of shopping at one of the city’s best malls.
- Atmosphere: Elegant, modern, with an Asian flair.
- Cuisine: Contemporary Cantonese.
- Perfect for: Discovering new tastes, dinner after shopping.
- Budget: $$$
- Suhoor: No.
- Location: Kempinski Hotel, Mall of the Emirates.
Soul of the East: Authentic and Cozy Iftars
Here, there are no crystal chandeliers or Michelin ambitions. Instead, there’s something money can’t buy: the taste of home-cooked food, warm hospitality, and the atmosphere of a genuine, non-touristy Ramadan.
Gardenia: Home-style flavors at an honest price
Restaurant Gardenia offers a taste of authentic, non-touristy Dubai. Here, guests seek not glamour, but that genuine home-style flavor of iftar dishes prepared generously and without regard for trends. You can look forward to a generous buffet featuring classics of Arab cuisine. The atmosphere is simple and relaxed, making this place perfect for a family dinner. Gardenia proves that you don’t need a big budget for a delicious and satisfying iftar.
- Atmosphere: Family-friendly, simple, welcoming.
- Cuisine: Traditional Arab.
- Ideal for: Budget-friendly family dinners, discovering authentic cuisine.
- Budget: $.
- Suhoor: Not available.
- Location: Arabian Park Dubai, Al Jaddaf.
Mausam: A Spicy Mix in Dubai Mall
What happens when you combine Indian spices and Arab traditions? At Mausam, they know the answer. Located right in the heart of Dubai Mall, this restaurant offers an exciting gastronomic fusion—blending Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines into one iftar menu. This is a great opportunity to sample hits from two of the richest culinary cultures in one dinner. Its convenient location makes it the perfect spot to wrap up a day spent shopping or sightseeing in Downtown.
- Ambiance: Bright, modern, multicultural.
- Cuisine: Indian and Arabic.
- Ideal for: Dinner after shopping, exploring diverse cuisines.
- Budget: $$
- Suhoor: Yes, from the main menu until midnight.
- Location: Dubai Mall.
Alizée: Resort Chic and Arabic Grill
Alizée restaurant, located in the premium Banyan Tree hotel on Bluewaters Island, strikes a perfect balance between luxury and authenticity. Guests can enjoy a hearty iftar with a rich selection of traditional Arabic mezze appetizers and juicy grilled meats and fish. The main highlight is the laid-back resort atmosphere and stunning views of the Ain Dubai Ferris wheel. After dinner, you can take a pleasant stroll around the picturesque island.
- Ambiance: Resort-style, relaxed, cozy.
- Cuisine: Arabic, grill.
- Ideal for: A comfortable family dinner, meeting friends in a beautiful setting.
- Budget: $$$
- Suhoor: Yes. Format: à la carte on the open terrace with shisha.
- Location: Banyan Tree Dubai, Bluewaters Island.
Planning your visit: Practical tips
To ensure your gastronomic experience during Ramadan goes smoothly, keep a few important points in mind.
Booking is key to success
Ramadan is peak season for Dubai's restaurants. Popular spots, especially on weekends, often get booked weeks in advance. We strongly recommend reserving your table ahead of time as soon as you've made your choice.
Ramadan etiquette
Dubai is a welcoming city, but respecting local traditions during the Holy Month is especially important.
Etiquette tips: During the day, refrain from eating, drinking, and smoking in public areas. Choose modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, particularly when visiting traditional neighborhoods and religious sites. When accepting an invitation to iftar, don't be late. A simple greeting of 'Ramadan Kareem!' will be warmly received by locals.
Taste is Personal: Our recommendations are based on analyzing reviews and the reputation of establishments. Remember that perceptions of atmosphere and cuisine are highly individual. Trust your own taste and preferences!
Dubai's culinary scene during Ramadan this year showcases an amazing balance: on one hand, there's a commitment to grand and generous traditions, such as those at the Asateer tent, and on the other, a growing trend toward more intimate, authorial iftars, where chefs creatively reinterpret tradition. Ultimately, choosing between iftar and suhoor is not just about selecting food—it’s about deciding on an experience, an atmosphere, and that very memory that will stay with you long after your trip ends. Pick your own scenario this Ramadan—whether it’s a quiet dinner with a sunset view, a lively celebration surrounded by hundreds of people, or a culinary journey to Asia. Whichever path you choose, Dubai will prove that its main dish during Ramadan is genuine hospitality, served here in unlimited abundance.
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