It is common knowledge that the Dubai summer heat is unforgiving. For those destined to face it during the holy month, we’ve compiled the best Ramadan-related things to do in Dubai. They might just give you the much-needed courage to stick around!
1. The Ramadan Forum
Set in a beautiful Arabic majlis at the Dubai World Trade Centre, the Ramadan Forum is a unique experience that invites hundreds of people of different backgrounds and beliefs to share in a traditional iftar (breaking of the fast). This annual event indulges goers in a full program of events including lectures by globally renowned figures. And for a dose of Ramadan goodies, don’t forget to stop by the Ramadan markets.
2. Hosting people for iftars and suhoors
If you are looking for something a little bit more low-key but still captures Dubai’s multicultural vibe, why not swap meals and talk culture over a “bring-your-own-dish” potluck iftar or suhoor (pre-dawn meal).
A great way to do this is to vary the theme each time. Moroccan, Egyptian and Indian are guaranteed to get this hospitable, home-cooked gesture going! Bonus points if you play charades afterwards.
3. Visiting mosques
Whether for prayer or exploration, Dubai boasts a plethora of beautiful mosques that fuse modern with traditional architecture and design, and it is certainly a breathtaking opportunity to see the mosques lit up in honor of the holy month. Popular with locals and tourists are Jumeirah Mosque and the Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab, tucked away not far from Al Safa Park. Most mosques are open to the public at designated times and most have set tours, so be sure to check in advance.
4. Eating your body weight in knafeh
One word once uttered, you will never forget: Firas. The saying goes, if you haven’t yet had Firas’ cheesey knafeh, you haven’t lived. All restraint goes out the window once you tread those humble premises and try the incomparable selection of sweets. You may implode with sugary goodness – you have been warned.
5. The gift of giving
The act of giving to the less fortunate is one of the best ways to keep to Ramadan’s true spirit of charity, and there is no shortage of initiatives for those wanting to give back.
Adoptacamp’s Ramadan Care Packages project is a critical initiative that brings the community together to help set up and assemble care packages for laborers. For those more sports inclined, Al Noor Centre is holding its annual sports extravaganza. All tournament proceeds go towards children with special needs.
6. Tents
Get ready to embrace your night owl! Revive Ramadan’s social spirit in one of the city’s traditional tents. If you want the best views, authentic Arab food and a true showcase of heritage with traditional tablah and oud, look no further than the Downtown Dubai tent or Atlantis Al Aseer. It’s win-win.
7. Poetry corners
The region’s love of oral story-telling is truly alive and well throughout the year, so it’s only natural that this popular art form occupies Ramadan nights as well. Poetry organisers Dubai Poetry Slam will be holding Arabic and English Poetry Corners for those brave enough to embrace the mic. For everyone else, you’ve signed up for a night of unmatched talent and inspiration!
8. Boards games and movies at Ghaf Kitchen
The folks at A4 sure know how to use the space spectacularly. For those who have a competitive side, a selection of games are available and each weekend, gorgeous movies exploring the theme of the sun are screened. The selection of food on sale wins every time.
9. Ramadan Bazaars
Organised by Emirati Basma Al Fahim, these markets will take you to fashion heaven. Local and international designers will display one-off designer pieces at this fair. The line-up includes Meena Rose (who has dressed Kim Kardashian), Dina Zaki, Fatma Al Mulla, Elham Al Arif, Julea Domani by Zeena Zaki and designers from The Fashion Vault.
10. Chai Karak
The Al Barsha area is pocketed with Middle Eastern culinary gems, none as exquisite as the frequented street cafes selling the customary local hot drink, chai karak. At one dirham a cup, you’ll be ditching your coffee habits for this spicy dream of a drink in no time. Oh, and be prepared to wait behind a very long line of cars!
11. You finally have peak rush hour times figured out!
Throughout the year, most hours of the day are considered peak hours for Dubai traffic. Just when you think you have it figured out, one tiny accident equals a three hour delay. Luckily, Dubai drivers seem to have unanimously agreed to a maximum of two-hour traffic each morning and each afternoon. This is the one time you will know when best to brave Sheikh Zayed Road – or not! Road rage, on the other hand, we are still working on.
12. Eye bags are proud battle scars
The city (and its people!) really comes to life after sunset, so whether you are observing the fast and daily evening prayers, or socialising with family and friends almost every single night, everyone knows sleep is a thing of the past. So you’re definitely excused when you rock up to work the next day stifling yawns and loading on the under eye cover up. After all, every one is in this together!
WE SAID THIS: Don’t miss Ramadan 2015: The Best Iftars In Dubai.