Ramadan in Dubai sets citywide rhythm of culture, food and light
Dubai has unveiled its official calendar for Ramadan, with a month-long programme of cultural events, community gatherings and destination experiences. The season sits within “Season of Wulfa,” which links Hag Al Laila, Ramadan and Eid. Organisers say the focus is on reflection, generosity and togetherness, especially in the hours after iftar. Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) highlighted simple, welcoming moments that feel accessible and meaningful for residents and visitors.
What the city announced
Evenings will feature street food, cultural performances, drone shows and fireworks across neighbourhoods, malls and waterfronts. Key hubs include Dubai Festival City Mall, Al Seef and Dubai Creek. The calendar also brings immersive installations, themed décor and extended opening hours. A “majlis” is a hosted gathering space for socialising and dining; many venues will offer majlis-style iftar and suhoor.
Evening highlights to note
The Ramadan Street Food Festival will turn Sheikh Hamdan Colony into a lively hub from February 16 to March 15. “Ramadan by the Bay” at Festival Bay runs February 18 to March 28 with drone shows, live culture, a market and a special IMAGINE edition. Daily fireworks will light up Al Seef and Dubai Creek from February 19 to March 19. A coordinated drone show also runs February 19 to March 19, offering a tech-driven take on Ramadan themes.
Art, light and calm spaces
“Ramadan Reflections (Atyaf Ramadaniyah)” expands across 10 locations from February 19 to March 22, using light, form and storytelling to echo the month’s atmosphere. Citywide lighting under the Season of Wulfa will carry themed displays across roads and landmarks into Eid. “A Symphony of Light” continues at Al Seef and Dubai Festival City Mall until March 23, creating reflective evening moments.
Destinations made for post-iftar strolls
Programming at City Walk runs February 17 to March 18 with relaxed, open-air evenings. The Beach, JBR hosts ambient décor and light cultural elements from February 10 to March 22. City Centre Mirdif becomes a neighbourhood gathering spot from February 20 to March 7.
Family-friendly culture and heritage
“Hai Ramadan” returns to Expo City Dubai from February 22 to March 17 with stories, activities and shared moments. “Ramadan Wonders” at Global Village runs February 18 to March 18, blending performances, dining and retail. On February 28, “Layali Al Wulfa” at the Theatre of Digital Art (TODA) combines visual storytelling, light and a mini market inspired by Emirati heritage.
Majlis and iftar experiences across the city
The Jumeirah Emirates Towers Ramadan Majlis offers Emirati hospitality from February 16 to March 19, with Arabic coffee rituals, bakhoor and live Oud. Asateer at Atlantis, The Palm runs February 17 to March 18 in a large-scale, traditional setting. “Majlis Under the Stars” at Jumeirah Al Naseem brings seaside evenings from February 19 to March 21. Meanwhile, ROOFLINE by DIFC continues through March 31, and will host CP Majlis from February 18 to March 9 with rotating dining, retail and cultural programmes.
Partner programmes across the city
Government-led activations will span cultural venues and public spaces. Planned initiatives involve Dubai Municipality’s Souq Ramadan, programming by the Community Development Authority, Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, the Museum of the Future and the Roads and Transport Authority. Highlights include Bu Tbailah entertainment across major destinations, the “Eyal Al Freej” mosque-based children’s initiative (February 19–March 20) and the “Steps of Life” charitable step-tracking drive over the same dates.
Retail, rewards and everyday participation
A Season of Wulfa “Shop, Scan & Win” raffle runs citywide until March 22 across participating Carrefour and Lulu Hypermarket stores. Malls will extend hours to support post-iftar visits. Destination programming includes Downtown Dubai Ramadan Nights, themed activations at Dubai Mall, Palm Jumeirah Mall and other hubs, plus partner campaigns such as Tickit Ramadan Rewards and Emirates Skywards promotions.
Ramadan in Dubai: key dates and places
Dates vary by venue, with most activations running from mid-February through mid- to late-March. Many experiences are free to access, while majlis, hotel iftars and special exhibitions require bookings. Organisers advise checking venue channels for final timings, traffic updates and last-minute changes around drone shows and fireworks.
Dubai’s Ramadan calendar blends tradition with contemporary city life. Evening-led programming encourages shared time after iftar, from street food and markets to light installations and majlis culture. The result is a steady, inclusive rhythm that carries the city from Hag Al Laila through Ramadan and into Eid—grounded in community, reflection and hospitality.
