Iftar marks the breaking of the fast during the Holy Month of Ramadan and takes place after the call to prayer. Traditionally, the fast is broken by eating dates and is followed by a meal.
Ramadan is expected to start in Dubai from Wednesday, March 22. We already know the exact date is dependent on the sighting of the moon closer to the time.
So, if you’re looking for great iftar in Dubai, we’re here to help.
Iftar Buffets in Dubai
Expo City Dubai
This year, Expo City Dubai is holding two epic iftars: one by the Surreal water featur, where groups of 10 or more can enjoy an extensive outdoor buffet with live cooking stations. The Surreal corporate Iftar hosted by Address Hotels is an exceptional way to enjoy the surreal atmosphere while indulging in an extensive buffet, live cooking stations, and communal dining in the Mobility District.
The other iftar takes place at the Mobility District’s lively communal iftar table, with Punjabi-inspired dishes from Khaojee by Rohit Ghai, a celebration of Lebanese flavours courtesy of Chef Athanasios Kargatzidis from the award-winning Baron and Friends, and Khaleeji dishes from popular Saudi Arabian restaurant Dukhnaah, and special Ramadan desserts from Bread Ahead and Lilly’s Café.
Prices for both Iftar events start at AED 250 per person, while the Suhour meal costs AED 225 per person. Children six and under dine for free, and those aged 12 and under are eligible for a half-price discount.
Apart from this, there is also a must-see Ramadan market called Hai Ramadan in Expo City. There will be a number of enticing dining experiences with a diverse selection of food trucks where you can enjoy iftar and suhoor. A few popular favourites include Jailbird, Pickl, Wingstop, Alkebulan, Shawarma Vibes, Baskin Robbins, Floozie, House of Pop, Al Fanar and much more.
Dubai Opera
There will be an extensive iftar buffet with international and Arabic dishes, carving stations, a variety of sweets and desserts, and a selection of traditional Ramadan juices specially curated by chefs at Address Sky View at the Dubai Opera.
Live entertainment is available every night throughout the month, including renditions of classical and Arabic melodies.
- Cost: AED 290 for individuals aged 12 and above and AED 145 for children between the ages of 5 and 12.
- Timings: From Sunset to 09:30 pm
- Location: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai
- Contact: +971-4-440-8888
Queen Elizabeth 2
Enjoy an exquisite iftar at Queen Elizabeth 2. Discover the rich flavours of Arabic cuisine along with other lavish culinary selections from around the world at Lido Restaurant.
Take your pick from Lamb Ouzi with oriental rice, and traditional delicacies from across different food stations highlighting the best of Middle Eastern cuisine as well as international favourites.
The iftar is priced at AED 159 per person and AED 80 children aged 6 to 11.
6.30pm to 9pm; Port Rashid; Tel: (600) 500 400.
Majlis of the World, Global Village
Global Village is welcoming back the Majlis of the World, where guests will enjoy the finest Ramadan traditions in a one-of-a-kind setting. Guests can order Iftar or Suhoor or bring food from any of the 250+ dining options around the park.
You can book tables for two to six people a limited-time iftar dinner seating or stay for the entire evening, including suhoor. Live oud players and harpists will treat guests to melodious tunes along with other captivating acts.
General table: AED75 per hour (AED50 redeemable on food and drinks) and Premium lounge table: AED100 per hour
Open from 6pm to 2am,
Claypot
This budget Indian restaurant is serving up traditional iftar buffet with favourite Arabic and international dishes. They have buy five get one free offer, which is ideal for larger groups.
There will be a selection of hot and cold mezze on each table, including hummus, moutabel, kibbeh, fattoush, kebabs and falafel. Claypot’s signature fare will be served as the main course including mutton kofta handi, chicken korma, kadai vegetables, chicken majboos or biryani and dal makhani.
- Cost: AED 59 for adults and AED 29 for children.
- Timings: From Sunset to 11:30 pm
- Location: Citymax Bur Dubai
- Contact: 050 100 7065
Laylati Café, Grand Hyatt Dubai
The Grand Hyatt Dubai’s Laylati offers a quintessential Ramadan majlis setting where you can enjoy an iftar buffet every day.
The luxurious dining venue offers an array of Arabic and international dishes, including main courses including live stations with favourites such as ouzi, koshari, shawarma, falafel, and kunafa. Private cabanas are also available to book.
- Cost: AED 220 for adults and AED 110 for children.
- Timings: From Sunset to 08:30 pm
- Location: Grand Hyatt Dubai, Deira
- Contact: 04 317 2222
Jehangirs
One of the most popular iftar buffets in Dubai, this eatery specializes in modern Mughlai cuisine and has more than 30 items, including assorted bread, desserts, and several main courses.
- Cost: AED 89 per person and AED 59 for kids below 14.
- Timings: From sunset to 08:30 pm
- Location: M Square Building, Shop No. 5, Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Street, Al Mankhool
- Contact: +971-50-580-8191
Grubshack
Enjoy the exquisite Indian Iftar buffet at Grubshack. You will find everything from classics to your street food favorites.
- Cost: AED 69 per person
- Timings: Daily from 06:30 pm
- Location: Building 41, Health Care City.
- Contact: +971-54-488-8083
Atlantis, The Palm
The quintessential iftar event returns to Atlantis, The Palm’s renowned Asateer Tent, with beautiful terrace seating options available.
Diners can enjoy a fusion buffet featuring various theme nights, including international, Arabesque, Khaleeji, Persian, and Turkish cuisine. There is a variety of seating arrangements, including a Royal Majlis, six VIP Majlis areas, as well as booth seating and 110 dining tables.
- Cost: AED 260 per person (Mon to Thur), Dhs280 per person (Fri to Sun).
- Timings: Daily from sunset
- Location: Atlantis, The Palm
- Contact: 04 426 2626
The Market Place
The Market Place at Marriott Al Jaddaf is hosting daily Iftars for the month of Ramadan. Indulge in a lavish buffet featuring a selection of dishes from traditional Arabic favourites amidst a stunning Arabesque setting.
- Cost: AED Dh225 per person. 40% off per person during the 1st week of Ramadan
- Timings: Daily from sunset till 9pm
- Location: Marriot Al Jaddaf
- Contact: +971 4317 7777
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