Ramadan is a time of celebration and while there are many iftars to go to in the evenings, there are also a lot of festivals and pop-ups across the UAE worth checking out. We round up some of the all-time favourites.
BeYouLand
Citywalk, Dubai
Shop a curated selection of regional designers’ kaftans, accessories and more in the heart of Dubai, before heading to a nearby restaurant for a delicious dinner.
May 25 to July 1 from 1am to 10pm
Good Vibes Market
Nadi Al Quoz, Al Serkal Avenue, Dubai
Explore Alserkal Avenue’s many Ramadan offerings, including an alternative Iftar experience at Nadi Al Quoz. The space host rotating food vendors throughout the month, including The Shebi, Son of a Chick and Kaak Al Manara. On Saturdays and Sundays, enjoy a variety of board games from 7pm to 11pm.
Throughout Ramadan, from Iftar to midnight
Ripe Market
Reform Social & Grill, The Lakes Club, Dubai
Everybody’s favourite outdoor market, with debuted at Zabeel Park in Dubai, has gone indoors for the warm season. Shop an array of items from local vendors at the weekly market.
Every Friday from May 26 to June 23 from 12pm to 8pm
Eventra
Sunset Mall, Dubai
Possibly the biggest Ramadan fashion exhibition in Dubai, offering a host of fashionable clothing from regional designers, Eventra is set to take place again this year. Go early to avoid heartbreak, as pieces sell out quickly.
May 31 to June 4 from 8pm to 1am
Bazaar Al Rakya
The Outlet Village, Jebel Ali
Eight Middle Eastern designers will showcase their abaya and jewellery designs at a pop-up installation within the scenic, Tuscany-inspired interiors of The Outlet Village. Expect to find pieces from House of Hend, Hessa Falasi, Shatha Essa and more.
May 31 to June 30 from 10am to midnight
Ramadan Night Market
Hall 7 and 8, Dubai World Trade Center
If you have relatives visiting in June, they’re sure to enjoy the Ramadan Night Market, which sells a variety of handicrafts, clothing and sweets. The best strategy would be to get there right at 8pm if you’re going by car, as parking can be a nightmare.
June 1 to June 10 from 8pm to 2am
Festember
Warehouse 421, Abu Dhabi
The event’s tagline is “where dreamers go”, and you’re sure to find alternative fashion, beauty, lifestyle and food brands at this exciting festival.
June 1 to June 4, 9pm to 2am
Ramadan Fair at Al Seef
Al Seef Village Mall, Abu Dhabi
Shop from a selection of more than 30 UAE-based vendors on this one-day pop-up at Al Seef Mall, where yummy Iftar options are also aplenty.
June 2 from 7pm to 12am
Manarat Al Saadiyat Ramadan Evenings
Manarat Al Saadiyat
Pop by and enjoy a selection of interactive activities including live readings the Q’uran on Sundays, talks on Islamic architecture on Tuesdays, and poetry sessions on Saturdays. The festival will also include a book corner featuring recitals by popular authors, board games, vintage video games, an interactive mosaic mural as well as an interactive puppet show, a Ramadan Souq and a wide selection of dining options.
June 4-17 from 7.30pm-11.30pm
Ramadan Fashion Pop up Fair
The Mall Jumeirah, Dubai
The event will highlight Arabic fashion with pavilions dedicated to clothes, accessories, perfumes, make up and beauty, wellness and an Indulge Section.
June 7 to June 10 from 8pm to 1am
Mirbad
Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi
This seasonal pop-up concept is based in Abu Dhabi, and inspired by the ancient souq experience. Find fashion, homeward and jewellery just in time for Eid.
June 8 to June 10 from 8:30pm to 1:30am
Mystical Ramadan Evening
Bodytree Yoga Studio, Abu Dhabi
Shop from a selection of over ten vendors and enjoy the studio’s mystical-themed evening complete with art and poetry.
June 10 from 8:30pm to 11:30am
Sharjah Ramadan Nights
Expo Centre Sharjah
Not only can you shop from an array or retailers, but you can also take part in cultural activities, games and raffle draws at Sharjah Ramadan Nights. There is a Dh5 entree fee for adults above the age of 12.
June 15 to June 30 from 9pm to 1am
