As Dubai glows in the festive spirit of Ramadan, Karama has become the heartbeat of celebrations for many. One of the city’s oldest and most vibrant neighborhoods, Karama is a melting pot of cultures and flavors that has buzzed with activity during the third edition of the Ramadan Street Food Festival. The entire area feels like a carnival, with shops displaying special Ramadan decorations, colorful lights adorning the streets, and laughter spilling from every corner.
As the sun sets, hundreds of people, mostly from the lively Keralite expat community, flock to the festival’s 50-odd restaurants offering a range of aromatic dishes like Malabar biryani, parotta, varutharacha chicken curry, pazham pori, and beef combo, alongside refreshing drinks like ‘Kulukki sarbath’ and sweets like ‘payasam’ and ‘ada pradhaman.’ Kerala-themed ‘chayakkadas’ with Malayalam-language newspapers stand out as key attractions.
Young and old, families and friends gather to indulge in delectable cuisine, enjoy live performances, and partake in arts and crafts and games. On Fridays and Saturdays, the Community Long Table offers a unique dining experience, blending hometown vibes for Keralite expats. Asheem P.K., a resident, noted, “Ramadan is the best time to be in this area, especially for Keralites. The place has an energy that feels familiar, almost like home.” He emphasized that the festival is not just about the food; it is about community and everything reminiscent of Kerala.
The atmosphere is further enhanced by the energy of impromptu musical performances where young Keralite expats fill the night with Ramadan folk songs and poetry, creating memorable jam sessions. Nizar Mohamed, another resident who considered moving to a quieter neighborhood, couldn't resist the festive atmosphere. He shared, “I’ve thought about moving out to a quieter area. But then I think about the food, the vibe, the Ramadan nights, and I can’t bring myself to leave.”
However, amidst this lively celebration, a significant concern looms. In the first half of Ramadan, Dubai Police arrested 375 street vendors for illegally selling food items and counterfeit goods in public areas, as part of a campaign named “Combat Begging.” Lieutenant Colonel Talib Al Amiri, Head of the Anti-Street Vending Section, emphasized the risks associated with unlicensed vendors, stating, “These items often fail to meet health and safety standards due to improper handling and storage, potentially exposing consumers to serious health risks.”
The police crackdown included the seizure of several vehicles used for transporting and selling non-compliant products, which often operated in labor accommodation areas under unsanitary conditions. Authorities urge the public to rely solely on licensed establishments to ensure their safety and wellbeing.
Despite safety concerns, the appetite for celebrations continues. As night falls, Dubai’s vibrant culinary landscape shines through. The Ramadan Street Food Festival runs until March 23, providing an opportunity to savor myriad flavors. Visitors can grab a Ramadan Street Food Festival Culinary Passport, which offers a chance to win a meal worth up to Dh250 by spending Dh10 at any participating restaurant.
Outside of the bustling food festival, Dubai also boasts several luxurious Suhoor spots that promise a delightful experience. The Ramadan Garden by Al Habtoor Palace offers an enchanting outdoor ambiance from 9:00 PM to 2:30 AM, featuring Middle Eastern delights amidst elegant lanterns and lush greenery.
The Asateer Tent at Atlantis The Palm, renowned for its opulent atmosphere and impressive culinary spread of Arabic, Indian, and international cuisine, presents live cooking stations and exquisite desserts. Those seeking tranquility can indulge in Suhoor at the Garden Oasis at One&Only Royal Mirage, which features authentic Levantine cuisine in a serene setting.
Blüthner Hall at Raffles The Palm Dubai offers a sophisticated experience with a graceful selection of Arabic and international dishes alongside artisanal teas. Meanwhile, Ewaan at Palace Downtown enchants guests with its views of Burj Khalifa and a sumptuous buffet comprising slow-cooked lamb ouzi and Arabic sweets.
Dubai’s vibrant Ramadan nights promise countless experiences, from street food revelry in Karama to upscale dining. The city captures the essence of community and celebration, despite ongoing challenges posed by illegal vendors. This cosmic flavor of culture and culinary excellence encapsulates the spirit of Ramadan in Dubai, where people unite over food and traditions, creating memories that last a lifetime.
