The best Iftar menus in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
- Featured Food & Beverage
Jade Crasto- 14 minutes read
Schenelle Dsouza
It goes without saying that the Middle East is one of the most popular destinations for tourists across the globe, although Dubai and Abu Dhabi seem to be the more popular destinations. Two majestic destinations, both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, have so much to offer in terms of food and experiences; one will seldom be disappointed after visiting either. While travelling to the Middle East during the colder months around December is best suggested, visiting during the holy month of Ramadan is a whole other experience!
Experiencing Ramadan in places like Dubai and Abu Dhabi has been described as one of the best experiences. While both cities experience a slowdown during the day, the night is when the towns really come alive! From night markets to cultural events and of course, fancy iftar dinners, Abu Dhabi and Dubai are one of the best places to see some authentic Ramadan celebrations.
Things to keep in mind
Ramadan is a time dedicated to family, prayer, and fasting. And so when travelling to Middle Eastern cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, tourists can expect a slow start to the day. The streets would be mostly empty, several shops and restaurants might close early, and some might not be open at all. However, even after the midday break, most locations will reopen in the evening when locals and tourists alike can enjoy the bustle of a Ramadan night’s joyous activities. The limited availability of resources during the day can be a minor downside here, however, on the plus side, the empty streets allow tourists to explore the city without any chaos.
Given that a majority of the city is fasting, eating, drinking or even chewing gum in public is strictly prohibited. In some Middle Eastern cities, most restaurants and bars will be shut during the day. This rule goes for a majority of Middle Eastern destinations, although Dubai is much more lenient when it comes to fasting. The hotel restaurants and bars tend to serve food and drinks, despite the public ban on eating, drinking and smoking, although they will provide screened spaces for each.
Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi never usually enforce a dress code, however, during the month of Ramadan, every person, local or tourist is expected to be dressed modestly as a sign of respect. Long skirts/trousers, loose-fitted tops and shirts with half sleeves are some of the preferred outfits; shorts are prohibited for both men and women. Another major rule for when in public spaces during Ramadan is respectful behaviour. Given that it is a time of reflection, tourists and visitors are expected to be discreet, which means no listening to loud music, singing or dancing in public. Being inebriated in public is also seen as a major sign of disrespect.
Where to stay
Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai
A landmark tourist attraction – Atlantis, The Palm Dubai is a hotel that defines true Middle Eastern luxury. The hotel, an architectural wonderland, sits on a man-made, palm-tree-shaped island which extends 5.72 square kilometres off Dubai’s coast. The hotel has as many as 1,500 options for accommodations, each one more luxurious than the other. And while each has its own luxurious appeal, the newly launched underwater rooms are a special treat to the eyes. Named after the Greek gods Poseidon and Neptune, the suites offer undisputed views of The Ambassador Lagoon, the hotel’s massive underwater aquarium. The above-ground room is beautifully furnished with contemporary decor and amenities suited for each guest. And while the view from the underwater suites is magnificent, the view from the suites on ground is incomparable!
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi
Sitting on the western end of the Abu Dhabi Corniche, the Emirates Palace Hotel is very Arabesque in its style. Majestic domes, opulent marble interiors and lavish décor are what add to the grandeur of this palatial hotel. The domes are one of the biggest highlights of the hotel, all 114 of them having been crafted with gold, mother of pearl and crystals. The view from the hotel it to die for with the private beach, landscaped pools and a private marina overlooking the natural bay. Not to mention the expansive 100-hectare gardens surrounding the hotel. Matching the grandeur of the hotel, each of the 394 rooms oozes luxury regardless of the room you pick, all you have to do is pick your view – garden, pool or beachfront! Some of the amenities include free butler service, a pillow menu, iPads control stations, and standard tea and coffee facilities. The suites are elaborately designed with opulent offerings such as whirlpool baths, hot tubs, private lounge areas and balconies. If you know about the hotel, then you know that Le Cafe is world-famous for its signature 23K gold-flaked Palace Cappuccino which is a must-try for all.
Raffles the Palm Dubai
A regal property that opened in 2021, Raffles The Palm Dubai is a palatial luxury beachfront resort sitting on a 500-metre private beach. The opulent architecture of the hotel is said to be inspired by 18th century European palaces with pink Portuguese marble interiors enhanced with regal Swarovski crystal chandeliers. The massive hotel boasts 389 rooms in a range of deluxe, premier and presidential rooms and suites, all of which overlook either 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 Imperial Villas with private gardens and private rooftop or outdoor pools. Those with an eye for decor will appreciate the real gold and silver leaf finishing touches along the walls and ceiling, as well as the Swarovski chandeliers, of which there are as many as 6,000 across the entire hotel.
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island steps away from overly exuded grandeur to more classic luxury. The hotel is more of an elegant Mediterranean revival-style resort with rich wooden and marble elements in more mellow hues. While most of the surrounding area is occupied by a cluster of hotels and resorts, the view from the hotel is beautifully calming with a six-mile stretch of Saadiyat Beach which makes for a great view from the luxury accommodations. Bringing in the best of Mediterranean-inspired architecture and contemporary decor, the rooms use materials like stone, teak, and glass to complement the beach-inspired sand, brown and white palette. The hotel’s 18-hole Beach Golf Club is a big highlight of the hotel, which is both a tricky and rewarding experience.
Best places for Iftar food
The food is one of the biggest highlights of the Middle East, and the food during Ramadan is as delectable as one can imagine. The iftar menus usually comprise buffets offering an enormous variety of food including grilled platters, shwarmas, soups, salads, dips and spreads, fruit, dry fruit, sweet treats and so much more. Tourists are truly spoilt for choice when visiting the middle east during Ramadan. And while the choices are endless, here are some of the best restaurants for iftar food in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Al Meylas, Abu Dhabi
A sophisticated space inside the Four Seasons Hotel, Al Meylas offers a modern Majlis setting. The menu, a la carte, comprises a traditional spread with choices such as warak enab, fatayer, fattoush and kibbeh for mezzes while the larger plates comprise bigger portions like chicken machboos and mixed grills. While there are quite a few options for dessert, visitors are encouraged to try out the infamous cheese kunafa, which is prepared with a special recipe from the head chef himself. Sweet, crispy and cheesy, the rich dessert has been described as heaven on a plate and is a must-try for all!
Al Hadheerah, Dubai
Between the Arabian desert and starlit sky, Al Hasheerah is a complete experience paired with music, entertainment and of course delicious food. Described as an Arabian theatre of open-air dining and live entertainment, guests are presented with a feast of traditional Arabic cuisine, signature hot mezze, seasoned kebabs, flame-grilled seafood and tender lamb ouzi. Bringing alive the soul of Arabian heritage, guests are entertained by tanoura dancers, oud musicians and falconers, adding a unique element to the wholesome dining experience.
Asateer, Dubai
Located inside the prestigious Atlantis Hotel, Asateer’s all-white ambience, glittering lights and oriental music give it a palatial setting that makes eating here feel so much more grand. And when it comes to food, Asateer goes all out presenting an impressive variety of food from different cuisines including Moroccan, Lebanese, Persian, and Emirati. Indulge in juicy grilled meats, rotisserie wraps, traditional mezzes, hummus, fattoush salad and kibbeh, along with a variety of sweet creamy desserts and a huge chocolate fountain.
Asil, Dubai
A sophisticated Middle Eastern restaurant, Asil combines the best of Arabesque cuisine, with Turkish, Lebanese and Moroccan influences. Their iftars offerings comprise a mix of soups and salads along with hot and cold mezze, and fresh pastries, while mains include dishes like su bourek, manti, imam bayildi, couscous mechoui, tagines and stuffed Lebanese marrow along with a selection of grills and platters. End your meal with a delicious Turkish kunefe or umm ali, and a refreshing cup of Moroccan tea.
Beirut Sur Mer, Abu Dhabi
A stunning beachside restaurant, Beirut Sur Mer sits on the stunning Saadiyat Island. The restaurant’s vibrant-hued interiors and chic decor make it one of the most instagrammable spots in the city. A Lebanese food lover’s dream, the menu here includes a delicious selection of mezzes comprising fresh salads, dips and spreads, grills, and kebabs. End the meal on a sweet note with a selection of desserts including traditional favourites like kunafa and muhalabiyeh among other delectable options.
Garage, Abu Dhabi
