Throughout the Holy Month, Dubai shimmers, offering the best of food, leisure and entertainment. Ramadan markets open at various locations across the city during this time of the year, drawing thousands of visitors.
So, if you’re wondering where to head, here’s Connector’s round-up of some of the Ramadan markets you can’t miss this year!
Hai Ramadan
During the Holy Month, Expo City Dubai is hosting its annual Hai Ramadan celebration, inviting visitors of all ages and nationalities to experience a blend of cultural activities and vibrant dining. Families can immerse themselves in spiritual traditions, captivating storytelling, and evenings of connection and reflection, daily from 5pm to 10pm, from now until 15 March.
Guests can witness the spectacular Iftar Cannon, one of the most popular and must-experience Ramadan events. In addition, the event will also host orchestral performances and stunning projections, celebrating the spirit of the season and bringing Dubai’s diverse community together. Lastly, reflecting the joy of breaking the fast, Hai Ramadan also offers two distinct Iftar experiences: Iftar Al Majlis and Iftar Al Souk. Entry fees vary by activity, so make sure you check the website before you head.
www.expocitydubai.com
Dubai Festival City Mall
Dubai Festival City Mall is hosting a special Ramadan evening programme along its waterfront, offering a range of attractions for visitors. The event runs until 28 March.
Guests can enjoy a Ramadan-themed ‘Imagine’ light and water show, as well as scheduled drone performances illuminating the night sky. The programme also features a dedicated Ramadan market, live entertainment, parades, and interactive zones for families. Communal dining areas will be available, providing a welcoming setting to gather for Iftar or spend a relaxed evening outdoors. Entry is free, making it a convenient addition to Ramadan plans.
www.dubaifestivalcitymall.com
Ramadan Street Food Festival
Sheikh Hamdan Colony in Karama is hosting a Ramadan Street Food Festival, transforming the area into a vibrant evening destination throughout the Holy Month. Now in its fourth year, the festival features a variety of food vendors offering Iftar dishes, along with family-friendly activities and entertainment. It provides a relaxed, casual spot to gather after sunset.
The festival focusses on themed decorations, restaurant offerings, entertainment, and interactive experiences through the end of Ramadan. The fest is open until 18 March, from sunset to 2am daily.
Moonlight Market
A new highlight on the Ramadan calendar, Moonlight Market brings a modern take on the traditional Ramadan market to Uptown Dubai, JLT. Visitors can enjoy live entertainment, hands-on workshops, and interactive board games, creating a relaxed environment to spend a few hours. Food vendors such as Salt, Lana Lusa, and Goodies will serve a variety of crowd favourites. The market also features a special pop-up from Ripe Market, offering local retail stalls to browse before unwinding in the open plaza. The market is open daily from 6pm to 2am.
www.uptowndubai.ae
Global Village
Global Village, the one-stop destination for family entertainment, is ready to make the Holy Month of Ramadan special for everyone! Enhancing visitor experience throughout the Holy Month, Global Village will remain open from 5pm to 1am from Sunday to Wednesday and from 5pm to 2am on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
During the Holy Month, Global Village will be beautifully adorned with traditional Ramadan-themed décor, including glowing lanterns, crescent motifs, ambient lighting, and photo-friendly installations that reflect the spirit of the season.
The destination will also feature Ramadan-themed experiences, including Multaqa, a traditional gathering space with free seating inspired by majlis culture, where guests can relax, dine, and socialise under ambient lights.
Entertainment highlights include live shows such as weekend performances, a 25-piece Arabian Orchestra, cultural acts, a drone show launch night, and regular fireworks displays on Fridays and Saturdays. There’s also a daily cannon ceremony to mark the end of fasting.
www.globalvillage.ae
Ramadan District, Jumeirah Emirates Towers
One big gathering under the moonlit sky, the evening majlis at Emirates Towers will offer a culturally immersive Ramadan experience for the whole family. Guests can enjoy traditional Arabic coffee rituals, and binge on a menu inspired by Emirati culinary heritage, alongside live Oud performances and soft traditional melodies. Children and parents will also be able to enjoy a dedicated children’s area with plenty of workshops and activities to keep them entertained. The market is open from 1 to 15 March. Entry is free for all.
www.instagram.com/ramadandistrict
Ripe Market, Ramadan Edition
The Ripe Market at the Academy Park in Al Sufouh, brings the ultimate Ramadan market experience. Enjoy a community shopping experience from over 100 local businesses selling everything from organic skincare, handbags and rustic home ware to handmade jewellery, unique fashion, art, baby clothes, home interiors and children’s toys. The market is open from 9am to 9pm on Saturdays and from 9am to 7pm on Sundays. Entry costs Dhs 5 for adults, children under 12 enter free.
www.ripeevents.com