Best Iftar Menus in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Chenel Dusa

Needless to say, the Middle East is one of the most popular destinations for global tourists, although Dubai and Abu Dhabi seem to be the more popular destinations. Two magnificent destinations, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, have a lot to offer when it comes to food and experiences; few will be disappointed after a visit. While traveling to the Middle East is best advised during the colder months around December, visiting during the holy month of Ramadan is an entirely different experience!

Experiencing Ramadan in places like Dubai and Abu Dhabi has been described as one of the best. While both cities experience a slowdown during the day, night is when the towns really come alive! From night markets to cultural events and, of course, exquisite Iftar dinners, Abu Dhabi and Dubai are one of the best places to see authentic Ramadan celebrations.

things to remember

Ramadan is a time of focus on family, prayer and fasting. So when traveling to Middle Eastern cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, tourists may expect a slow start to the day. Streets will be mostly empty and some shops and restaurants may close early and some may not open at all. However, even after the midday break, most locations reopen in the evening, when locals and tourists alike can enjoy Ramadan night festivities. Limited resources during the day may be a minor drawback here, but on the plus side, the empty streets allow visitors to explore the city without any confusion.

Given that much of the city is fasting, eating, drinking and even chewing gum in public are strictly prohibited. In some Middle Eastern cities, most restaurants and bars are closed during the day. This rule applies to most Middle Eastern destinations, although Dubai is much more lenient when it comes to fasting. While eating, drinking and smoking are prohibited to the public, hotel restaurants and bars will often serve food and drink, although they will provide everyone with screened-in spaces.

Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi usually never enforce a dress code, however, during Ramadan everyone, whether locals or tourists, should dress appropriately as a sign of respect. Long skirts/pants, loose tops and half-sleeve shirts are some preferred attire; shorts are prohibited for both men and women. Another major rule in public places during Ramadan is respectful behaviour. Given that this is a time of reflection, tourists and visitors should exercise caution, which means not listening to loud music, singing or dancing in public. Getting drunk in public is also seen as a major sign of disrespect.

where to live

Atlantis The Palm Dubai

Landmark tourist attraction – Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai is a hotel that defines true Middle Eastern luxury. The hotel is an architectural wonderland set on a palm-tree-shaped man-made island that stretches 5.72 square kilometers off the coast of Dubai. The hotel has as many as 1,500 accommodation options, each more luxurious than the last. While each room has its own lavish allure, the new underwater room is a special visual treat. Named after the Greek gods Poseidon and Neptune, these suites offer undisputed views of the hotel’s huge underwater aquarium, the Ambassador Lagoon. Above ground rooms are beautifully appointed with contemporary décor and amenities to suit every guest. While the views from the underwater suites are spectacular, the views from the ground suites are unparalleled!

Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, Emirates Palace

Situated at the western end of Abu Dhabi’s Corniche, the Emirates Palace Hotel has a distinctive arabesque style. Majestic domes, ornate marble interiors and lavish finishes add to the grandeur of this palatial hotel. The domes are one of the hotel’s biggest attractions, with all 114 of them crafted from gold, mother-of-pearl and crystal. The property’s views are mesmerizing, with a private beach, landscaped pool and private jetty overlooking a natural bay. Not to mention the 100 hectares of extensive gardens surrounding the hotel. Complementing the hotel’s grandeur, each of the 394 rooms exudes luxury, and whichever room you choose, all you have to do is choose your view – garden, pool or beachfront! Some of the amenities include complimentary butler service, pillow menu, iPad control station and standard tea and coffee making facilities. The suites are thoughtfully designed to provide luxurious amenities such as whirlpool tubs, hot tubs, private sitting areas and balconies. If you know the hotel, then you know that Le Cafe is famous for its signature 23K gold court cappuccino, which is a must-try for all.

Raffles The Palm Dubai

Raffles The Palm Dubai, a palatial hotel opening in 2021, is a palatial luxury beachfront resort situated on 500 meters of private beach. The hotel’s gorgeous architecture is said to have been inspired by 18th-century European palaces, with pink Portuguese marble interiors complemented by magnificent Swarovski crystal chandeliers. This massive hotel has 389 rooms, including a variety of deluxe, premier and presidential rooms and suites, all overlooking the Arabian Gulf or the Dubai skyline. For a more private and luxurious experience, guests can also choose to stay in the Raffles Royal Villas and Raffles Royal Villas with private gardens and private rooftop or outdoor swimming pools. Those with an eye for decor will appreciate the genuine gold and silver leaf decorations on the walls and ceiling, as well as the Swarovski chandeliers, of which there are 6,000 throughout the hotel.

The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi

St. Regis Saadiyat Island moves from excessive grandeur to more classic luxury. The hotel is more of an elegant Mediterranean Revival-style resort, with rich wood and marble elements and more muted tones. Although much of the surrounding area is taken up by hotels and resorts, the property is very serene, with the 6-mile-long Saadiyat Beach offering great views from its luxurious accommodations. Rooms feature the best of Mediterranean architecture and contemporary décor, using materials such as stone, teak and glass to complement the beach-inspired palette of sand, brown and white. The hotel’s 18-hole Beach Golf Club is a highlight of the hotel and is a skillful and rewarding experience.

Best place for iftar food

Food is one of the biggest highlights of the Middle East, and food during Ramadan is even more conceivable. Iftar menus usually consist of a buffet offering a wide variety of food including gratins, shiwarma, soups, salads, dips and spreads, fruit, dried fruit, desserts and more. Tourists can really be dazzled when visiting the Middle East during Ramadan. While the options are endless, here are some of the best iftar restaurants in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Almeiras, Abu Dhabi

Al Meylas is a refined space within the Four Seasons Hotel offering a contemporary parliamentary setting. The à la carte menu features traditional à la carte dishes, including hors d’oeuvres such as warak enab, fatayer, fattoush and kibbeh, while larger plates feature larger portions such as chicken machboos and mixed rotis. While there are several options for dessert, visitors are encouraged to try the infamous Kunafa cheese, prepared according to the chef’s own special recipe. Sweet, crunchy, and cheesy, this dessert is heaven on a plate and a must-try for everyone!

Dubai Al Hasira

Between the Arabian desert and the stars, Al Hasheerah is the perfect experience, complete with music, entertainment and, of course, delicious food. Described as an Arabian theater of al fresco dining and live entertainment, it offers guests a feast of traditional Arabic cuisine, signature hot mezes, seasoned kebabs, fire-grilled seafood and tender lamb ouzi. Tanoura dancers, agarwood musicians and falconers bring guests the soul of Arabian traditions, adding a unique element to the healthy dining experience.

Asat, Dubai

Located inside the famous Atlantis hotel, Asateer’s all-white ambiance, sparkling lights and oriental music create a regal setting that makes dining here feel even more grand. When it comes to gastronomy, Asateer has gone out of its way to showcase an impressive variety of cuisines from as diverse as Moroccan, Lebanese, Persian and Emirati. Indulge in succulent roasts, souvlaki, traditional hors d’oeuvres, hummus, fattoush salad and kibbeh, as well as a selection of sweet and creamy desserts and a giant chocolate fountain.

Asir, Dubai

Asil is a fine Middle Eastern restaurant that combines the best of Arabesque cuisine with Turkish, Lebanese and Moroccan influences. Their Iftar menu includes a variety of soups and salads as well as hot and cold appetizers and fresh pastries, while main courses include su bourek, manti, imam bayildi, couscous mechoui, tagines and stuffed Lebanese bone marrow as well as a variety of grills and platters. Served with delicious Finish your meal with Turkish kunefe or umm ali and a refreshing cup of Moroccan tea.

Beirut Corniche, Abu Dhabi

Beirut Sur Mer is a stunning beachfront restaurant located on the magnificent Saadiyat Island. The restaurant’s vibrant interiors and chic decor make it one of the city’s most talked-about spots. A Lebanese food lover’s dream, the menu here features a selection of gourmet platters including fresh salads, dips and spreads, grilled meats and kebabs. End your meal in a sweet atmosphere with a selection of desserts, including traditional delicacies such as kunafa and muhalabiyeh, among other delicacies.

Garage, Abu Dhabi

The Garage offers a quintessential dining experience, striking decor and a relaxed ambiance. Sports enthusiasts will especially appreciate the terrace views of the Yas Marina Circuit’s Formula 1 circuit. The menu is divided into five mini-stores: Meat Vault, Nikkei House, Mezza Bar, Tart Van, Steam Table and Tap Wall. All this includes a wide selection of cold cuts, kebabs, salmon and tempura, hummus, salads, biryanis and more.

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