12 unique iftar experiences to try this Ramadan in the UAE

These unmissable iftar experiences will ensure a memorable meal with family and friends.

Al Ain Zoo: Iftar with the lions

This Ramadan, dine with lions at Al Ain Zoo for a unique and memorable iftar experience. The experience also includes a sunset tour operated by Al Ain Safari, to whet your appetite for an extraordinary gastronomic set-menu experience on the edge of the lions’ territory. This luxuriously wild experience caters to groups of four to 12 people, aged 12 years and above. Available daily, from 5:30pm to 8pm. AED 840 per person.

GO Visit www.alainzoo.ae or call 03 799 2000 for reservations and more information.

Burj Al Arab: Iftar inside Dubai’s most lavish landmark

This Ramadan, guests can enjoy the untold stories of Dubai’s most iconic hotel, the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, and savour authentic Arabic flavours at the UMA Lounge and Terrace with sunset views over the waters of the Arabian Gulf. The full experience for two includes a 90-minute tour followed by hot and cold mezze, including zaatar manakish, cheese rakakat, sambousek, spinach fattayer and muhammara, accompanied by a selection of refreshing mocktails and juices. Available daily from sunset. AED 949 for two.

GO: Visit insideburjalarab.com for reservations and more information.

Dubai Opera: Iftar at the opera

Dubai Opera has recently announced the launch of on-site Iftar in honour of the Holy Month of Ramadan. Here, patrons can enjoy authentic Emirati cuisine amidst what is known as ‘the most prestigious square kilometre in the world’. The Iftar buffet at Dubai Opera offers an extensive spread of international and Arabic dishes, complete with carving stations, a variety of sweets and desserts, and traditional Ramadan juices. Visitors will also be treated to renditions of classical and Arabic melodies, accompanied by live entertainment every night throughout the month. Available daily, from sunset 9:30pm. AED 285 for adults and AED 145 for children aged between five and twelve years.

GO: Visit www.dubaiopera.com for reservations and more information. 

Emirates Palace: Iftar in a palatial majlis

The Majlis by the Sea at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi offers a Ramadan tent situated on the shores of the Arabian Gulf. Expect a stunning outdoor terrace, warm interiors and exquisite decorative details complemented by Arabic cuisine and live instrumental music. Available daily from sunset. AED 325 per person.

GO: Email epauh-restaurants@mohg.com or call 02 690 7999 for reservations and more information.

Emirates Park Zoo: Iftar with the giraffes

An iftar with giraffes awaits, allowing you to feed these fascinating herbivores at the Emirates Park Zoo. The special Iftar with giraffes is open to groups of up to five people and lasts approximately two hours. For those looking to make a day of it, the Iftar booking includes free full-day admission to the zoo, a complimentary environmental tour guide and an eclectic African drumming experience. Available daily from 6:30pm. Prices are available upon request.

GO: Visit www.emiratesparkzooandresort.com for reservations and more information.

Louvre Abu Dhabi: Iftar in a museum

Celebrate the magic of Ramadan at the Arab world’s first universal museum and enjoy a sumptuous Iftar under Jean Nouvel’s iconic dome. Break your fast in an incredible three-course Emirati-French fine dining Iftar experience at Fouquet’s Abu Dhabi, or indulge in elegant light bites up on the picturesque rooftop of Art Lounge. Available daily, from sunset to 10pm. AED 390 per person.

GO: Email contact-fouquets-abudhabi@groupebarriere.com or call 02 205 4200 for reservations and more information.

Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas: Iftar on the beach

Experience a luxurious Bedouin-style iftar experience at the Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas. Enjoy a sumptuous Arabian Nights-themed Iftar under the stars at The Oasis. Expect a generous selection of signature dishes within a traditional Ramadan setting. The Bedouin-style feast features lamb ouzi, veal harees and Moroccan tajine, complemented by live stations and Arabic desserts. Available daily from sunset to 9pm. AED 320 per person.

GO: Call 054 581 2576 for reservations and more information.

Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri Abu Dhabi: Ifar at the Ramadan Village

Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri Abu Dhabi will once again transform its poolside into a glistening Ramadan Village, complete with interactive culinary stations and live entertainment. Culinary enthusiasts are invited to revel in the spirit of Ramadan as they enjoy a Grand Iftar at Sofra. The vast buffet will be made up of authentic flavours from across the region including a selection of season-inspired beverages. Available daily, from sunset. AED 268 per person.

GO: Email restaurantreservations.slad@shangri-la.com or call 02 509 8555 for reservations and more information.

SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences: Iftar in the sky

Head to the 75th floor of SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences to experience an Iftar Tent where you can break your fast while enjoying a views of the city. Expect signature dishes such as falafel with roasted red peppers, crumbed asparagus with saffron aioli, hearty rösti potato with yogurt, and lentil soup with lemon and olive oil. For the main course, guests can choose from a selection of cuisines, such as the short rib tajine with couscous, spicy sea bream samke harra, and desserts such as  saffron and pistachio kunafa. The traditional Arabic-style tent will feature plush seating, colourful lanterns, and intricate Arabian carpets. Available daily from sunset. AED 185 per person.

GO: Email slsdubai@slshotels.com or call 054 991 8120 for reservations and more information. 

The National Aquarium: Iftar underwater

The National Aquarium has partnered with Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri to host a one-of-a-kind ‘underwater’ iftar with access to the National Aquarium for groups between 30 to 50 guests. The spectacular setting encourages guests to connect over an elevated iftar showcasing flavours from across the region, including traditional Arabian-influenced dishes and tempting sweet delights. Available on 10 and 11 April. AED 600 per person.

GO: Visit https://thenationalaquarium.ae for more information.

The WB Abu Dhabi: Iftar at the world’s first Warner Bros. Hotel

The family-friendly Sidekicks restaurant at The WB Abu Dhabi is hosting its first Ramadan Iftar buffet. The culinary journey of colourful cuisines and aromatic flavours will transport guests to the Levant. Promising fun for the entire family, featuring meet-and-greets with WB favourites such as Tom & Jerry, Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck and Robin. Diners can gather with their loved ones and enjoy authentic Levantine and modern cuisine from the buffet and live cooking stations. Traditional Ramadan drinks are also available. Available daily from sunset to 10pm.

GO: Email dine.thewbabudhabi@hilton.com or call 02 815 0000 for reservations and more information.

Topgolf Dubai: Iftar on the greens

From hot and cold mezze to an ouzi station and decadent desserts, the iftar buffet at Topgolf Dubai features all your Ramadan favourites. Diners can also choose from various unique spaces, including the Terrace, Bay, Yard, Upper Deck or Garden, and enjoy an evening of endless entertainment and games catering to seasoned pros and newbies. Available daily from sunset. AED 255 per person (buffet and two hours of gameplay).

GO: Visit https://topgolfdubai.ae or call 04 371 9999 for reservations and more information.