This Ramadan, the vibrant city of Dubai is coming alive with numerous initiatives and activities aimed at celebrating the holy month. From unique dining experiences at luxury hotels to community-driven charitable actions, both residents and visitors can immerse themselves in the spirit of giving and togetherness. Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk, for example, is inviting guests to indulge in their 'Arabesque Iftar' at Brasserie Boulud, where Middle Eastern and French flavors unite over a lavish buffet experience. Guests can enjoy live chef stations featuring freshly carved shawarma, zaatar crusted lamb rack, and delectable desserts such as pistachio éclairs. Throughout the month, diners can participate from sunset until 8:30 PM at the price of AED 225 per person and AED 110 for children aged 6 to 12. Children aged five and under dine for free.
Meanwhile, the hotel's Soleil Pool & Lounge is hosting 'Suhoor Under the Stars', offering guests a laid-back ambiance enriched by live Oud melodies. With prices starting from AED 75 per person, visitors can enjoy grilled delights, shisha, and sunset views of Burj Khalifa, creating unforgettable moments.
For those with a sweet tooth, Bijou Pâtisserie is showcasing special Ramadan pastries from 8 AM to 8 PM, offering treats perfect for enjoying after Iftar. Highlights include their Haute Croissanterie collection priced from AED 18.
Beyond luxury dining, the sense of community is strong this Ramadan as Dubai fosters giving through various initiatives. The Ramadan Heroes initiative, launched by Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, encourages residents to donate meals, clothing, and charitable contributions through talabat UAE to support underprivileged families. This campaign is now running for its sixth year and has garnered widespread participation.
Local businesses are also contributing. Aminia Restaurant, known for its authentic Mughlai cuisine, is offering complimentary Iftar meals to delivery riders every day from 5 PM to 6:30 PM, aiming to distribute over 1,000 meals throughout the month. Meanwhile, Virgin Megastore encourages donations for Iftar meals with just AED 15, reaffirming the spirit of Ramadan.
Puck’s 'Recipe for Change' initiative invites patrons to enjoy Lebanese dishes from various restaurants throughout the UAE, with 50% of profits directed to aiding families back home. Similarly, Dodo Pizza is giving back with plans to deliver over 3,000 Iftar boxes to hardworking delivery drivers, nurturing appreciation for these frontline workers.
Rove Hotels also engages the community with its 'Pay What You Can' Iftar every Monday, supporting medical treatments for children through Al Jalila Foundation. Guests can enjoy diverse buffet meals with the flexibility to contribute according to their means.
Technology is not left behind as Careem facilitates donations via its app to Dubai Cares and Emirates Red Crescent, enabling users to contribute to charitable endeavors easily.
On the academic front, some Emirati students are experiencing their first Ramadan far from home, like Salem Abdullah Sabran Al-Braiki studying in Australia. Adjusting to life without family, he has found solace in communal iftars organized with fellow Emirati students where they share meals steeped in traditional culture. Salem has embraced the chance to share his Emirati customs with his Australian host family, fostering cultural exchange as he introduced them to traditional attire and local dishes.
The holiday focus on family and community is manifesting itself not only through shared meals but also through group activities and communal celebrations among students, bridging the gap of homesickness.
Whether dining at luxurious hotels or partaking in community initiatives, the ethos of Ramadan is brightly visible across Dubai this year. Residents are not just observing the month through fasting; they actively embody values of solidarity and compassion, extending their hands to help one another. This reflects the true spirit and purpose of Ramadan which transcends geographical boundaries down to community-based efforts rooted deeply in the values of kindness and charity.
From upscale dining experiences at Sofitel Dubai and Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah to initiatives aimed at supporting those less fortunate, Dubai is showcasing the vibrancy and depth of its Ramadan celebrations. Through outreach and community involvement, residents and visitors alike are igniting the essence of this holy month, ensuring it is filled with meaningful engagements and shared moments.