During Ramadan, Dubai transforms into a city that beautifully balances fasting and feasting, embracing the holy month with great reverence and community spirit. For non-Muslims visiting or residing in Dubai, this period offers a unique cultural experience, including a wide array of dining options throughout the day.
While Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, non-Muslims have the opportunity to explore an assortment of eateries that remain open. From international hotels serving breakfast, lunch, and daytime snacks, to select restaurants offering secluded dining areas, Dubai ensures that all visitors and residents can enjoy meals in comfort and privacy.
Moreover, the city comes alive after sunset with Iftar feasts that are open to everyone, providing a chance to partake in the communal spirit of Ramadan. Dining in Dubai during Ramadan is not just about enjoying a meal; it's an opportunity to experience the city's rich tapestry of cultures and traditions, making it a memorable time for non-Muslims as well.
To complement your experience, we've compiled a list of restaurants staying open throughout Ramadan. Offering diverse culinary options, they ensure you'll find a welcoming place to dine at any time of the day.
Reform Social & Grill, The Lakes
Reform Social & Grill Dubai is the city's first real gastropub, based on a popular spot in London. It's a family-friendly place in The Lakes, Emirates Living District. Here, you can find a restaurant, bar, and a nice garden by the lake. They serve great British food, including pork dishes, from 8 am till late, every day.
- Average price for two: AED 360
- Zomato Ratings: 3.2
- Location: Emirates Hills, Dubai
- Contact: 04 454 2638
Mint Leaf of London, Emirates Financial Towers
Mint Leaf of London, a top Indian restaurant in Dubai, is located on the 15th floor of Emirates Financial Tower in DIFC, offering stunning views of the Burj Khalifa. It caters to all dietary needs with variations like spicy, non-spicy, vegan, and vegetarian options. The menu features fresh seafood, organic vegetables, and exotic meats, enhancing the flavors. The restaurant also has a lounge for enjoying refreshing beverages. Continuously updating its traditional menu with international touches, Mint Leaf of London focuses on authentic ingredients, serving dishes with a modern twist.
- Average price for two: AED 535
- Zomato Ratings: 4.5
- Location: Emirates Financial Towers DIFC, Dubai
- Contact: 04 706 0900
Allo Beirut, Hessa Street
Dubai, with its significant Lebanese community, boasts an impressive array of Lebanese eateries, and Allo Beirut stands out as a top choice, particularly for late-night shawarma cravings. Its vibrant, kitschy decor and commitment to simple, affordable street food make it a favorite spot. Guests can enjoy a wide range of dishes, from falafel to cheese manakish, in an atmosphere characterized by bare ceilings and walls decorated with trinkets.
- Average price for two: AED 105
- Zomato Ratings: 4.2
- Location: Hessa Street, Al Barsha, Dubai
- Contact: 04 526 9004
Zaroob, Trade Centre Area
Zaroob is your go-to spot for a 4 am shawarma fix in Dubai. While it's open during regular hours, its real allure lies in the unique experience of dining while the city sleeps. Here, you can savor Lebanese and Egyptian favorites, with the hummus and falafel wrap highly recommended. Far from being a dimly lit, uninviting place, Zaroob attracts visitors with its vibrant graffiti-decorated interior and bright fluorescent lighting, making it a standout dining destination at any hour.
- Average price for two: AED 140
- Zomato Ratings: 4.4
- Location: Trade Centre Area, Dubai
- Contact: 04 385 3592
DENNY’S, Sheikh Zayed Road
Denny’s, a beloved American diner, shines as one of Dubai's top dining spots open during Ramadan on Sheikh Zayed Road (SZR). Famous for its American-style breakfasts, burgers, steaks, and other comfort food, it serves up hearty meals all day throughout Ramadan. Known for having some of the best pancakes in Dubai, Denny’s has earned its reputation.
- Average price for two: AED 230
- Zomato Ratings: 4.3
- Location: Indigo Building, Opposite Time Square, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai
- Contact: 050 831 8073
The Surf Café Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Road
Located on the bustling first floor of Jumeirah Beach Road, right where the lane meets Kite Beach, this beautiful café offers a cool place to hang out. It brings a fresh perspective to healthy eating, creating a laid-back atmosphere for its patrons.
Throughout Ramadan, the café opens its doors from 8 am onwards. You can either place your order through Deliveroo or opt for direct pickup. It's the go-to spot for nutritious breakfasts and revitalizing smoothies. Plus, for those looking to enjoy a meal out, dine-in service is available after sunset.
- Average price for two: AED 205
- Zomato Ratings: 3.8
- Location: Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai
- Contact: 04 388 0553
Bombay Borough - Indian Bar & Eatery, DIFC
Bombay Borough invites you to experience a culinary journey through India's rich mosaic of art, culture, and distinctive flavors. With a menu that celebrates the best of India's spices and tastes, reimagined with a contemporary twist, it caters to the refined palate of every explorer. From regional specialties presented with a modern flair to a bar menu filled with nostalgic favorites and innovative drinks, Bombay Borough offers an eclectic dining experience that bridges tradition and innovation.
- Average price for two: AED 445
- Zomato Ratings: 4.6
- Location: DIFC, Gate Village 3, Dubai
- Contact: 054 995 8296
Wokyo™ Noodle Bar, Jumeirah Lake Towers
Wokyo stands as a laid-back noodle bar dedicated to celebrating the rich noodle traditions of the Far East. Every day, we pay homage to the art of noodle making, striving to achieve the ideal balance of flavor, texture, aroma, and the all-important slurp factor in our dishes.
At Wokyo, your meal is an adventure you control. Simply point and customize your dish to match your current cravings. Our menu features a variety of options, including stir-fries wok-tossed to perfection, hearty noodle soups, ramen, sides, soft serve ice cream, and house-brewed iced teas.
- Average price for two: AED 160
- Zomato Ratings: 4.5
- Location: Jumeirah Lake Towers, Dubai
- Contact: 04 330 5188
Asia Tang, Emirates Hills
Asia Tang brings to life the lively and fresh flavors of Asian cuisine within a bright and inviting atmosphere that mirrors the elegance of a European Bistro. Serving both lunch and dinner, Asia Tang provides a modern take on Asian dishes, catering to guests looking to dine in as well as those preferring home delivery.
- Average price for two: AED 240
- Zomato Ratings: 4.2
- Location: Emirates Hills, Dubai
- Contact: 04 241 3777
Hoya Cafe & Restaurant, Al Manara
HOYA, located in Jumeirah’s Al Manara, is a multi-storey villa beautifully designed to emulate a lush garden both inside and out. Each floor of HOYA presents a distinct experience, featuring secret doors, a quaint library, and a plant studio among its charming attractions. On the ground level, guests can savor Mediterranean dishes in a unique setting, surrounded by a wide selection of books. Visitors have the privilege of borrowing these books to read at their leisure, allowing them to take a piece of HOYA home before returning it on their subsequent visit.
- Average price for two: AED 300
- Google Ratings: 5.0
- Location: Al Wasl Rd, Al Manara, Dubai
- Contact: 04 346 8986
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Are restaurants closed in Dubai during Ramadan?
A. In Dubai, restaurants and dining spots remain open during Ramadan, catering to non-fasting guests who wish to eat and drink as usual. While most establishments maintain their operations, some smaller ones might close during daylight hours, reopening at sunset.
Throughout Ramadan, you'll find that some eateries adjust their hours, often opening later and closing later to accommodate iftar and suhoor meals. To ensure a smooth dining experience, it's a good idea to call ahead or make a reservation, especially to avoid the evening rush and confirm any changes in operational hours.
Q. What are the rules for eating, drinking and smoking during Ramadan fasting hours?
A. During Ramadan, fasting Muslims refrain from consuming food, drinks, and smoking from dawn until sunset. For those not observing the fast, there are generally no formal prohibitions against eating or drinking in public. Despite this, many people choose to exercise discretion and avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public spaces during daylight hours as a sign of respect for those who are fasting
Q. Can I order food for delivery during fasting hours?
A. Yes, food delivery services generally operate as normal during Ramadan, allowing you to order food to your home or office without issue.
Q. Is alcohol served in restaurants during Ramadan?
A. Some restaurants and hotels will serve alcohol after sunset. However, policies can vary, so it's advisable to check with the establishment beforehand.
Q. What is Iftar and can non-Muslims participate?
A. Iftar is the meal with which Muslims break their fast at sunset. Non-Muslims are welcome to join Iftar gatherings, and many restaurants offer special Iftar menus or buffets. It's a wonderful way to experience local culture and cuisine.
Q. Are there special etiquettes I should follow when dining out during Ramadan?
A. While dining out, dress modestly and avoid loud conversations or music as a sign of respect. Also, showing gratitude when invited to an Iftar and being patient with service adjustments is appreciated.
Q. What is Suhoor and are restaurants open for it?
A. Suhoor is the pre-dawn meal before the fast begins. Many restaurants, especially in hotels, offer Suhoor meals or buffets, often late at night or in the early morning hours.
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HiDubai Newswire
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