Ramadan in Dubai offers a unique cultural experience. While the city remains vibrant, its nightlife adapts to the holy month. Whether you’re a resident or a tourist, knowing what’s open and where to go will help you make the most of your evenings.

Limited Live Entertainment
Music and dance performances, including those at restaurants, lounges, and desert safaris, are paused.

Adjusted Operating Hours
Restaurants, cafes, and malls stay open much later, often past midnight.

Respectful Atmosphere
Public spaces are quieter, and alcohol service is more discreet, typically available only in hotel bars after sunset.

Note! Concerts, live performances, and entertainment shows are paused out of respect for the holy month. Attractions like Desert Safari also suspend live belly dancing and tanoura performances. However, educational, comedy, and business events still take place.

During Ramadan, working hours in Dubai are reduced for both public and private sector employees. If you need to handle official matters, check office timings in advance.
Public transport schedules also change:

• Dubai Metro – Monday to Saturday: 5 a.m. to midnight; Friday: 5 a.m. to 1 a.m.; Sunday: 8 a.m. to midnight.
• Dubai Tram – Monday to Saturday: 6 a.m. to 1 a.m.; Sunday: 9 a.m. to 1 a.m.

Instead of traditional nightlife, Ramadan introduces a different kind of evening entertainment: Iftar (the meal to break the fast at sunset) and Suhoor (the pre-dawn meal before fasting resumes).

Dubai offers a variety of extravagant Iftar and Suhoor experiences, from lavish hotel buffets to traditional Arabian feasts in Ramadan tents.

• Burj Al Arab: The Al Diwan tent features three curated Iftar menus by Chef Suleiman Hasan, with traditional dishes and live music.
• One&Only One Za’abeel: Offers multiple Iftar options, including an Indonesian-themed feast at Andaliman and a Mediterranean experience at Aelia.
• Armani Hotel Dubai: The Armani Pavilion hosts a luxurious Iftar with Arabic cuisine and live cooking stations, complemented by stunning views of the Dubai Fountain.

Throughout the month, Dubai comes alive with Ramadan markets offering traditional crafts, clothing, souvenirs, and authentic Iftar and Suhoor meals. Many of these markets are free to enter and provide a glimpse into the country’s history and culture.

Here are some of the most popular Ramadan markets in Dubai.

• Ramadan District at Jumeirah Emirates Towers celebrates Emirati and regional culture. Visitors can shop for culinary products, homeware, and accessories by local designers. There’s also a children’s area with workshops and fun activities.
• Ripe Market at Dubai Police Academy Park features artisan goods, organic produce, and street food. Enjoy family-friendly activities, workshops for kids, and live music performances, along with yoga sessions.
• Festival Bay Ramadan Market at Dubai Festival City Mall runs daily from 6pm to midnight, offering delicious Iftar and Suhoor options. Traditional music performances, including live Oud and Qanoon playing, will add to the festive atmosphere.
• Ramadan Wonders at Global Village offers an immersive Ramadan shopping experience. Extended hours from 5pm to 1am (Sunday-Wednesday) and 5pm to 2am (Thursday-Saturday) allow visitors to explore the market’s diverse offerings.
• Celebrate Ramadan at City Walk with live music nights at the fountain area. From Wednesday to Sunday, enjoy traditional performances on the qanun and cello in a charming outdoor setting.

Ramadan is also a prime time for shopping, with malls and stores offering special discounts and Eid deals. Many malls extend their hours, staying open past midnight.
Best shopping destinations are The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and Dubai Festival City Mall.

Enjoy stunning fireworks displays every Saturday until March 22 at Al Seef, Dubai Festival City Mall, Bluewaters, and The Beach, JBR. The shows start at 10pm and are free to attend. Highlights include March 1 & 8 at Al Seef, March 15 at Festival Bay, and March 22 at Bluewaters and The Beach.

From March 6-23, Sheikh Hamdan Colony hosts the Ramadan Street Food Festival, featuring over 55 restaurants offering authentic dishes from savory kebabs to sweet treats. The festival includes live performances, a Carnival Zone, and fun activities like retro arcade games and arts and crafts workshops.

From February 27 to March 27, Expo City Dubai transforms into a traditional Emirati neighborhood with a souq, performances, kids’ activities, and festive dining options. Enjoy performances like Quest to the Moon and explore the food trucks for Iftar or Suhoor. Entry is AED 35, with additional fees for some activities.

If you’re looking for a more cultural experience, consider:

• Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) — offers immersive Iftar experiences, where visitors can learn about Ramadan traditions while enjoying a traditional meal.
• Ramadan Canons — a unique tradition where canons are fired at sunset to announce Iftar, seen at locations like Downtown Dubai and Palm Jumeirah.

1. Plan Ahead – Many places operate on altered schedules, so check timings and make reservations in advance.
2. Dress Modestly – While Dubai is generally relaxed, conservative dress is appreciated during Ramadan.
3. Be Respectful – Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.
4. Embrace the Culture – Instead of traditional nightlife, explore cultural events, Iftar experiences, or Ramadan markets.

Dubai's nightlife during Ramadan may be different from the rest of the year, but it remains exciting in its own way. Whether you want a relaxed evening out or a cultural deep dive, Dubai offers plenty to explore during the holy month.