Ramadan is almost here, bringing with it an onslaught of delicious and luxurious iftars to choose from, perfect for those days where you just don’t have the energy to whip up a hearty and nutritious meal. Rather than re-heat last evening’s leftovers, why not break your fast at one of the best iftars in Dubai offering delicious dining options and specially curated iftar menus? Ramadan in Dubai always brings a whirlwind of neon-lit iftar tents, sweet-smelling incense, and freshly prepared delicacies. If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably counted down to iftar time in Dubai, imagining every savory dish that’s about to land on your plate. And let’s be honest—Ramadan 2025 is already stirring up talk about new menus, majestic majlises, and all the delightful iftar offers in Dubai. But where should you go first?
That’s exactly what we’re about to explore. We’re talking big buffets, hidden gems, family favorites, and the kind of places you’ll want to Insta Story (or Snapchat, if you’re still into that). This guide is all about celebrating that magical hour when the fast breaks—whether you’re a local or just swinging by the city for a taste of something new. From the best Arabic iftars in Dubai to a starlit majlis, read on for the gastronomic experiences to check out in Dubai this Ramadan 2025 for those days you just don’t feel like cooking.
The Best Iftars in Dubai for Ramadan 2025: Our Handpicked Picks
We all have that one friend who’s tried it all, who raves about that hidden majlis in Old Dubai or that posh five-star hotel’s special Ramadan menu. You can totally be that friend for your circle this year—just check out these hot spots.
Our Favorite: Ramadan at Chouchou
If you’re looking to add a little joie de vivre to your iftar plans, Chouchou Beach Club is bringing a French Riviera twist to the season. Think Middle Eastern flavors with a touch of Parisian flair, a beachside breeze, and a few playful surprises along the way.
Nestled at J1 Beach, Chouchou is already a hot spot for those who appreciate a laid-back yet effortlessly chic atmosphere. This Ramadan, Executive Chef Valentin Bernigaud has crafted a menu that blends French indulgence with regional soul. The result? An iftar that feels tres chic. Picture this: duck confit with sumac and juniper berries, black truffle-infused hummus, and foie gras-stuffed kebbeh. And for mains, options like seven-hour slow-cooked lamb shoulder or delicate seabass in an aromatic tahini-lemon butter sauce make it clear—this is not your average iftar buffet.
And because no meal is complete without something sweet, expect a lineup of desserts that go beyond the usual suspects. A millefeuille with orange blossom cream and rose petals? A saffron-infused chocolate soufflé? A lemon knafeh with French meringue? It’s giving “I need to come back just for dessert.”
But the fun doesn’t stop at the food. Chouchou is making suhoor a vibe with their newly launched shisha menu—16 flavors, beachside views, and an à la carte selection from the iftar menu. And if you’ve got a competitive streak, their Board Game Café Nights (Scrabble, Monopoly, Ramadan Pictionary, Jenga) offer a chill but engaging way to wind down. Or, if you’re up for something different, the Chouchou Mystery Iftar on until March 20 turns dinner into a puzzle-solving adventure. Crack the clues hidden in the menu, the décor, or even your dish, and you might just leave with a prize.
Time: Sunset to 9PM
Price: AED 360 per person
Ramadan Garden Iftar experience at Jumeirah Beach Hotel
Vibe: Set against the iconic Burj Al Arab, you can savor delicious flavors while the ocean breeze carries the sounds of live oud and qunan under the starlit sky.
Menu Highlights: A sumptuous selection of traditional and contemporary flavours, all set within the serene, lush surroundings of Janat Al Bahar. Guests can indulge in a selection of locally sourced delicacies, served either at their tables or in the cosy shisha lounge.
Price: 310 AED per person
Reservations: For reservations, visit www.jumeirah.com.
Why It’s Great: If you’re craving a tranquil environment with unrivaled views to break your fast in, the Ramadan Garden has that warm energy that feels like home.
Al Malika at Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel
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Vibe: A historic gem, and the only floating hotel in the UAE.
Menu Highlights: Hosted at the Lido restaurant, expect slow-cooked lamb ouzi with oriental rice, an assortment of specialty dishes, succulent grills, a wide selection of hot and cold mezze, and exquisite desserts ranging from kunafa and um ali to baklava.
Price: 159 AED per person
Reservations: To book, call +971 4 526 8835 or email dining.qe2@accor.com. The iftar runs fom 6.30 PM to 9-30 PM.
Why It’s Great: If you want to impress your date (or your folks), a floating iftar is unbelievably picturesque—especially for those who love capturing the best places for iftar in Dubai on the ‘Gram.
Al Qasr Ramadan Tent
Vibe: Majestic drapery, mesmerizing Oud performances, and spectacular chandeliers. It’s everything you imagine when you think of an iftar tent in the Gulf. Family-friendly iftar spot.
Menu Highlights: A daily rotating buffet covering Egyptian, Levantine, and Khaleeji favorites. If you spot their fish tagine, don’t miss it.
Price: 269 AED per person
Reservations: +971 4 000 1122, from sunset to 9 PM. Visit www.babalqasr.com
Why It’s Great: This is one of the best places for iftar in Dubai if you’re up for that grand, cinematic Ramadan experience.
Tagine
Vibe: If you’re seeking the best iftar buffet in Dubai Marina, may we suggest Tagine? Located in at the jaw-dropping One & Only Royal Mirage, the traditional Moroccan restaurant will transport you to the heart of Marrakesh with its authentic decor and aromatic dishes.
Menu Highlights: They have an extensive spread—start off with a refreshing mint tea and dates before moving on to some iconic Moroccan dishes such as couscous and spiced kebabs.
Price: 220 AED per person
Reservations: +971 04 315 2412, from sunset to 9 PM. Reservations are required. Visit www.oneandonlyresorts.com
Why It’s Great: There is a live band so you can enjoy lively tunes while you indulge in an array of tantalizing dishes.
Five-Star Iftar Selections
Not everyone wants a super-casual vibe. Some prefer the big hotel scene with well-dressed waiters and fancy cutlery. If that’s you, check out the following:
Bab Al Shams Iftar at Al Hadheerah
Highlights: Their signature tender lamb ouzi cooked under the desert itself in the time-honoured way is legendary, and the sticky date pudding is surprisingly addictive.
Timing: Daily 7 PM to 11 PM
Reservations: +971 04 809 6194 or visit www.babalshams.com
Armani Pavilion
Highlights: An exquisite iftar buffet featuring timeless Arabic classics alongside a diverse selection of dishes from Armani Hotel’s signature restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Armani/Ristorante, Armani/Hashi, Armani/Mediterraneo, Armani/Amal, and Armani/Deli.
Reservations: Visit www.armanihotels.com or call +971 4 888 3010 for reservations and more information.
Best Iftar Offers Dubai: Hot Deals & Discounts
Let’s be real: we all appreciate a great discount. Especially if you’re like me and want to try multiple iftars throughout Ramadan. Look out for special “two-for-one” deals or group packages offered by many hotels. Places like Barbecue Delights, a popular Pakistani restaurant in JBR, often have iftar deals in Dubai that are less than 100 AED. It’s the sweet spot between affordability and an enjoyable gastronomic experience.
And if you’re a student? Some restaurants run a “student ID gets 10% off” campaign. Check their social media pages or give them a quick call—sometimes, that’s the best way to find these hidden deals.
Best iftars in Dubai: Vegetarian and Vegan Iftar Options
Struggling to find a cruelty-free meal when searching for the best iftar buffet in Dubai? Don’t sweat it. The city is evolving, and so is its culinary scene. A lot of restaurants now have entire sections dedicated to vegetarian iftar options—stuffed peppers, quinoa tabbouleh, grilled halloumi sandwiches—and vegan iftar options such as plant-based soups or chickpea-based stews.
Try Nazcaa
Blending bold Peruvian and Japanese flavours, they offer a curated vegetarian menu.
Must-Try: The refreshing Quinoa & Avocado, the delicate Nasu Nu Ninniku Gyoza, and the crispy Baby Corn Tempura will blow your mind.
Timings: Available throughout Ramadan. 250 AED per person
Contact: For reservations, visit nazcaa.com or contact Nazcaa at: dining.qe2@accor.com or +971 4 542 4200.
Best iftars in Dubai: Must-Try Lebanese Iftar
There’s something about Lebanese cuisine during Ramadan that just sings, “home.” The mezza spread, fresh salads, and juicy grills are basically love letters to your taste buds. If you’re hunting for that flavor in Dubai, you’ll want to swing by places like BeBabel The Palm located at Club Vista Mare. Their iftar menu ideas revolve around iconic staples like kibbeh, warak enab (grape leaves), and a variety of sweet pastries drizzled in flower syrup.
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Iftar Tents and Majlis
These communal spaces—often lavishly decorated—are perfect for large groups to break their fast together. Think of it like a festive cultural hub. Everyone sits close, sharing plates of dates and sipping Arabic coffee. And sometimes, you find live oud players or even calligraphy stations where you can get your name written in mesmerizing Arabic script.
DRIFT Sea Lounge’s First-Ever Ramadan Majlis Experience
Those who want to switch it up a bit this Ramadan can opt for an iftar under the stars during an unforgettable evening at DRIFT. For the first time ever, the award-winning beach club is hosting a Ramadan Majlis right in front of the Arabian sea. Chef Sylvain Noel has refreshed the DRIFT menu for Iftar, blending Arabic flavors with the restaurant’s beloved French cuisine. Guests can start their meal with dates and nuts, then enjoy classic dishes like Harira Soup and Shish Tawouk, along with Zaalouk. For dessert, there’s Lokma and Frozen Yogurt topped with caramelized nuts and honey. A variety of drinks are also available to complement the meal.
Beyond the Iftar menu, DRIFT Sea Lounge offers a regular à la carte menu with a Ramadan twist, perfect for dining under the stars. This luxurious open-air setting is ideal for group gatherings and corporate Iftars.
Price: AED 245 per person
Reservations: To make a reservation, please email: dining.qe2@accor.com or call +971 04 315 2200.
Common Questions: We’ve Got the Answers
What do you wear to an iftar party?
You can wear whatever makes you comfortable, but it’s best to lean toward modest or conservative outfits, especially if you’re attending a more traditional setting. Think maxi dresses or a chic top with loose-fitting pants. Guys can stick with a collared shirt or a neat polo.
What to bring to an iftar party?
If you’re visiting someone’s home, bringing a dessert platter—perhaps a box of Arabic sweets—or some fresh dates is thoughtful. If you’re heading to a restaurant, you just need your appetite and maybe a small gift if you’re meeting new folks.
What is an appropriate gift for iftar?
A box of premium chocolates, a fresh flower arrangement, or even a date hamper would be well-received. Many appreciate artisanal items like handcrafted tea blends or honey sets too.
What is traditionally eaten in iftar?
Traditionally, people break fast with dates and water. Then it’s soup (often lentil), salad (fattoush or tabbouleh), and main dishes like rice with meat or poultry. Desserts vary from kunafa to qatayef. This can shift based on culture, but that’s the classic pattern across the region.
Iftar Menu Ideas to Inspire Your Own Gatherings
We get it—sometimes you’re in the mood to play host in your own living room. If you’re prepping your own iftar at home, consider mixing classic Middle Eastern dishes with a global twist. How about:
- Date and Walnut Salad: Combine fresh greens with chopped dates, walnuts, a drizzle of olive oil, and a hint of pomegranate molasses.
- Spiced Chickpea Soup: A hearty soup loaded with tomatoes, cumin, and a sprinkle of cilantro.
- Stuffed Eggplants: Filled with rice, minced meat (or a vegetarian option), and topped with chopped tomatoes.
- Rosewater Pudding: A sweet, fragrant treat for that final celebratory note.
Your friends will swoon—promise.
Let’s Not Forget: Iftar Time in Dubai
Ramadan times shift each year based on the lunar calendar. Sunset changes from day to day, so keep an eye on the official prayer times. If you’re unsure, a quick check on a local mosque’s app or a quick Google search helps. Showing up late to an iftar can mean missing the start of the buffet, but showing up too early might leave you awkwardly standing around until that crucial moment.
Navigating Iftar Offers in Dubai: Quick Tips
- Plan Ahead: Book at least a day in advance, especially for popular places.
- Check Group Rates: Some spots shave off a chunk of the price if you bring a group of five or more.
- Early Bird Specials: A few venues reward early bookings with special perks—maybe a complimentary dessert or a discount.
- Social Media Giveaways: Keep tabs on your favorite restaurants’ Instagram stories. They might announce flash deals.
Final Thoughts…And a Little Emotional Note
Ramadan, for many of us, is more than a month. It’s a state of mind that invites patience, gratitude, and a sense of camaraderie. When you gather for iftar—whether at a grand five-star hall or a small corner cafe—it feels like time slows down, and the only thing that matters is sharing a meal with good company. As we keep rushing through our daily lives, iftar reminds us to pause, reflect, and connect.
So, if you’re searching for the best iftar buffet in Dubai or the simplest place to share a plate of dates, do it wholeheartedly. Take in the atmosphere, enjoy every spoonful of soup, and soak up the conversations that spark up around you. There’s a special warmth in Ramadan gatherings that’s hard to find elsewhere—especially for Gen Z and millennials who crave genuine connections in a sometimes all-too-digital world.
Honestly, that’s the real magic: bridging tradition and modernity in a single meal. And if you ask me, that’s why the best iftars in Dubai continue to attract people year after year.
