If you’re planning on visiting Dubai during this time, you’ve come to the right place! Here, we’ll cover everything you need to know about iftar in Dubai, including what it is, when it takes place, typical food, and where best to enjoy it.
What is Iftar?
Iftar is the meal eaten after sunset to break the daily fast during Ramadan. From dawn until sunset, Muslims refrain from eating and drinking; but once the evening call to prayer sounds, the fast ends - typically with dates and water. After that, a larger meal is often shared with family and friends.
If you’re asking yourself what is an iftar, think of it as a moment of connection, rather than just a meal. In Dubai, iftar can be as simple as a quiet family gathering at home, or as extravagant as a buffet at a luxury hotel. Either way, it’s a chance for travellers to witness a meaningful tradition and soak in the city’s hospitality.
What Time is Iftar in Dubai?
Iftar happens at sunset, which means the exact time shifts slightly each day. In Dubai, the sun usually sets between 6:15 pm and 6:45pm. If you want to join one, you should plan to arrive a few minutes early, so you can join the communal moment when the fast is broken.
Restaurants usually begin serving just before or at sunset, with prayer times observed carefully across the city. If you’re planning a break in Abu Dhabi too, expect very similar timings with slight local adjustments.
What to Eat for Iftar
Wondering what to eat for iftar? Traditionally, the fast is broken with dates and water, with a wider spread of food then put on for family and friends.
When it comes to food, Dubai is famous for its variety. You’ll find everything from simple lentil soup and fresh salads, through to grilled meats, seafood and an array of desserts like baklava or qatayef. Some hotels go all out with Emirati dishes alongside international cuisine, giving you a taste of the city’s multicultural dining scene.
For a truly local experience, consider taking a stroll through the souks in Dubai after dinner. The mix of lights, aromas and bustling vendors is a perfect way to digest both food and culture.
What to Do if You Get Invited to an Iftar
Getting invited to an iftar is a sign of hospitality and respect, so if you choose to go, remember to dress modestly and arrive just before sunset. While everyone waits for the call to prayer, it’s common to catch up beforehand, and enjoy the calm before the celebrations begin!
During iftar, guests are expected to sample a little of everything on the table, so make sure you try the variety of dishes on offer. Typically, iftars last one to two hours, so you can plan plenty more things to do for the rest of your evening - for instance, you might want to explore Dubai during Ramadan or catch somefestivals in Dubai.
Best Iftars in Dubai
Looking for the ultimate iftar experience in Dubai? Whether you’re after luxury, atmosphere or just an incredible spread of food, these spots won’t disappoint.
1. Burj Al Arab – Al Muntaha
Address: Jumeirah St, Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai
Perched high above the Arabian Gulf, Al Muntaha is the kind of place where the views almost steal the show, but don’t be fooled, the food is just as spectacular. Start with fresh dates and soups to break your fast, then move on to Middle Eastern classics like tender lamb and mezze platters, alongside seafood starters and international dishes. And those desserts? Absolutely worth saving room for. It’s luxurious, elegant and unforgettable.
2. Atlantis, The Palm – Saffron
Address: Crescent Rd, The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
If you like your iftar with a bit of theatre, then Saffron is the perfect option. The buffet is huge, with live cooking stations where chefs whip up seafood, grills and aromatic dishes right in front of you. You’ll find everything from slow‑cooked lamb and mezze to indulgent desserts, so there’s a little something for everyone. It’s fun, interactive and perfect for families or big groups.
3. Armani Hotel Dubai – Armani/Amal
Address: Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, Dubai
For a more intimate experience, Armani/Amal hits the spot. Think modern Indian and Middle Eastern dishes with a contemporary twist, creamy butter chicken, biryani, dal makhni, and perfectly spiced starters. All served in a sleek setting with views of the Dubai Fountain. Elegant, elevated and just the right touch of indulgence for Ramadan.
4. Bab Al Shams Desert Resort – Al Hadheerah
Address: Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa, Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
If you’ve ever dreamed of breaking your fast under the stars, this desert resort delivers. The spread focuses on authentic Arabian flavours. Imagine grilled kebabs, tender lamb ouzi, mezze and sweet luqaimat, all paired with traditional entertainment and live performances. It’s a truly immersive experience that blends food, culture and the magic of the desert.
5. Pierchic
Address: Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai
Want a romantic iftar with your feet almost touching the water? Pierchic is the place. The menu leans heavily on fresh seafood, from grilled prawns to cuttlefish ink fattoush with a mixed seafood grill as the main event. Desserts like baklava, Turkish delight and sticky date pudding wrap up the evening perfectly, all while you enjoy stunning views of the Burj Al Arab.
Final Thoughts on Iftar in Dubai
Iftar in Dubai is more than just food: it’s about pausing, connecting with family and friends, and experiencing the city’s unique culture. From traditional dates and water through to elaborate hotel buffets, whatever kind of food you’re looking for, there really is something for everyone!
When planning a holiday to Dubai, setting aside an evening for iftar means you can truly soak up the culture, and see how locals live. And, booking with Away Holidays can make the whole experience so much smoother, as we provide access to the best flights and hotels!
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