Frequently Asked Questions about Dubai in April

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Fasting all day is hard work, and families look forward to their fast-breaking meal as the sun sets. Throughout the day, dishes are cooked in preparation for this very important evening meal, but sometimes it’s nice to take a break from cooking, to get dressed up and celebrate with family and friends outside of the home; sometimes it’s nice to try something a bit different and sample unfamiliar dishes from around the world, or satisfy your cravings with your international favourites and that’s where Iftar places come to the rescue!

There is a huge variety of places offering iftar in Dubai. From small cafes offering set menus to elaborate buffets in beautifully decorated majlis, there’s something to suit every taste and budget in Dubai this Ramadan.

Ramadan in 2026 will occur from 18 February 2026 to approximately 19 March 2026 (subject to moon sighting)

15 Best Iftars in Dubai for 2026

If you’re a resident of Dubai or are lucky enough to be visiting it during Ramadan, here are the 15 best incredible buffets in the city for a unique Ramadan experience:

1. Bab Al Shams

One of Dubai’s best luxury iftar buffet options is Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa.

It is one of the most popular and highly frequented places for iftar in Dubai. And why shouldn’t it be? With ten live cooking stations offering a variety of seafood, meats, vegetarian and Arabic dishes, it is something one should never miss!

This year guests can also enjoy a range of entertainment, including dancers, musicians and a falconry display, as well as a vibrant souk experience.

Coffee making, story-telling and star-gazing sessions are also available at an additional cost.

Apart from the food, the arrangement, the live music, and the overall atmosphere of Bab Al Shams, sitting on the edge of the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve makes it one of the best places in Dubai for an iftar to remember.

Location: Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa

Cost: 449 AED (2026 Price)

Timing: From iftar till 11:00 pm

To book a table or find out more click here.

3. The Grand Garden Starlit Iftar

If your idea of the perfect iftar is a sumptuous buffet in plush surroundings, the Habtoor Grand Resort’s Starlit Iftar may be for you.

Enjoy a lavish spread of hot and cold mezze, followed by Ramadan favourites like lamb ouzi as well as international dishes from the many live cooking stations. There will also be a large range of delicious sweet treats and dessert including Kunafa and baklava. Live instrumental music provides an atmosphere of calm and contemplation. And all of this sat under the stars and twinkly fairly lights of the resort’s beautiful garden.

Location: Grand Habtoor Resort, Jumeirah Beach

Cost: 245 AED (2026 Price)

Timing: From iftar till 8:30 PM

For more details click here.

5. Asateer Tent

Let’s talk about one of the most lavish iftar buffets in Dubai: Asateer Tent!

This iftar goes all out when it comes to food. With an impressive variety of Moroccan, Lebanese, Persian, and Emirati cuisine, you’ll have a luxe dining experience at the Asateer. From piping hot meats, a shawarma station, grilled platters, a chocolate fountain, Umm Ali, and Kunafa, you will find all sorts of finger-licking items on the menu.

The ambience and layout of Asateer are simply magnificent. Each night, they can seat up to 1400 guests across 120+ tables (800 indoors and 600 outdoors). Plus, there are the Royal Majilis and four VIP Majilis areas overlooking the Arabian Sea.

During the evening, you’ll be entertained by ambient music with oud strings and vocal performances.

If you’re a first-timer to Dubai, this is truly one of the most exciting and extensive Iftar buffet experiences and should be high on your list of Iftars to try. Please note the strict dress code of long trousers for gents; ladies should wear long gowns.

Location: Atlantis, The Palm

Cost: 295 AED Weekdays / 325AED Weekends (2026 price)

Timing: From sunset to 8:00 pm

To book a table or find out more click here

6. Bombay Bungalow

For a delicious iftar of Indian dishes, a visit to the Bombay Bungalow is a must!

Prepare for your taste buds to be tantalised by the restaurant’s fabulous five-course menu, which includes dates to break your fast, arabic coffee and a complimentary fruit platter. Choose from soup, salad or a selection of dips before picking your starter, then choose from the curry or biryani of the day. Wash everything down with malpua, jallab, roohafza or fruit punch!

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Location: The Beach Mall, JBR

Cost: 125 AED (2026 Price)

Timing: From iftar till 9:00 PM

To find out more click here.

8. Asil

For a sophisticated Middle Eastern place to experience one of the best iftar buffet in Dubai, head over to Asil

With a range of Turkish, Moroccan and Lebanese dishes on offer, Asil brings all of the best flavours from around the Arab world to your table. There will be soups, salads, and numerous mezze dishes on offer, as well as filling mains such as manti and imam Bayildi, as well as the succulent mixed grill platter! Indulge yourself with a selection of kunefe, umm ali and other tantalising treats before ending your meal with some calming Moroccan mint tea.

There will be live music and a henna artist in attendance, making this a night you won’t forget. A wholesome meal, a great ambience, and live music? What more could one ask for?

Location: Rixos Premium JBR

Cost: 199 AED (2026 Price)

Timing: From 6.30 PM till 8:30 PM

For more details click here

9. 99 Sushi Bar

Fancy a change from the usual Dubai iftar spread? Then why not try set menu at 99 Sushi Bar?

Dishes include capumiso soup, truffle edamame, wagyu gyozas and king crab au gratin as well as a variety of maki and nigiri. Conclude your dinner with some delicious Yuzu Cheesecake. Yum!

Location: Address Downtown

Cost: 349 AED (2026 Price)

Timing: From iftar till 9:00 pm

For more details click here.

We’ve only scratched the surface of the hundreds of places offering iftar in Dubai. With prices ranging from 125 AED to a whopping 550 AED, there really is something for everyone.

With a whole month of Ramadan nights, there’s plenty of time to try something different. So, why not go for something Indian one day, head out for sushi the next and wrap up your Ramadan with the finest Middle Eastern dishes from the best iftar places in Dubai?

What Next?

• Check out our selection of the best Suhoor venues in Dubai for 2026
• Enjoy the spirit of Ramadan at one of these fabulous Ramadan night markets
• Here’s what to expect for Eid ul-Fitr celebrations in Dubai

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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links.

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While most places encourage healthy eating at home, going out to enjoy a variety of different foods with family and friends is becoming quite a common practice.

Suhoor can be taken at any time before sunrise. Many places stay open all night to ensure that people can have a hearty meal before they start their daily fast, but many close around 2 or 3 am. Non-Muslims are, of course, welcome to attend suhoor; it’s a great experience for any visitor, but it is important to be mindful of the significance of this very special time of year; dress and behave appropriately!

So if you’re looking for some amazing places to have suhoor in Dubai, here are ten of the best restaurants in 2026.

Ramadan in 2026 will take place from 18 Feb to 19 March (subject to the moon sighting) Learn more about Ramadan in Dubai here

10 Best Suhoor in Dubai for 2026

If you want to experience the true essence of Ramadan 1447, here are ten restaurants in Dubai that offer different options for a delicious and memorable suhoor.

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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links.

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One of the significant areas of concern for non-Muslims visiting Dubai during Ramadan is how to behave during the Holy Month.

Whilst the basic cultural behaviours for entering a Muslim country can be easy to grasp, there are a few extra steps that visitors need to take during Ramadan to ensure they are being respectful.

When is Ramadan in Dubai?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the lunar calendar. Following the Hijri calendar, the start date of Ramadan is approximately 10 days earlier each year on the Gregorian calendar. In 2026, Ramadan 1447 will fall over February-March; the moon sighting committee confirms the exact date.  

It is expected the 2026 dates to be 18 February 2026 to 19 March 2026

What do non-Muslim tourists & residents need to observe during Ramadan in Dubai?

Non-Muslim expat residents and visitors are responsible for making sure there is a suitable environment for Muslims to observe Ramadan.  Although you are not expected to join in with the fasting, you must show respect to those who are through your conduct.

Eating, drinking and smoking in public by adults during Ramadan is prohibited. 

HOWEVER, contrary to laws that carry fines of up to 2000 AED for eating in public during Ramadan, general practice in Dubai has significantly changed over the last four years. Eating establishments previously needed special licenses to operate during daylight hours of Ramadan and blacked-out windows.

Dubai Department of Economic Development (Dubai Economy) issued a circular on 11 April 2021 stating that restaurants in the emirate will not have to screen visible dining areas during fasting hours in the Holy Month of Ramadan 1442. This has been the case again in the past four years, so the rule changes look permanent, and eating in public spaces is no longer prohibited.

You can still obtain food and drink in hotels and shopping centres in Dubai during Ramadan. Walking around eating and drinking in public is socially unacceptable, even if it is no longer illegal. If you are consuming food and drink, stay within designated dining areas.

You can do as you please during Ramadan in the privacy of your own home or hotel rooms as long as it doesn’t disturb others (i.e., no loud music and blatant partying).

What About Children During Ramadan in Dubai?

Younger children, especially those under six years old, are not expected to participate in fasting, whether Muslim or non-Muslim.  Pre-pubescent children between 7 and 12 years old may start observing fasting for short periods. On reaching puberty, participation by all Muslims (some exceptions mentioned below) is required.

Schools in Dubai will start later and finish earlier during Ramadan. Individual schools will advise opening hours, but they are normally restricted to a maximum of 5-6 hours a day, and extracurricular activities are often cancelled.

You should see no change for younger children who attend nursery or playgroups, though hours may be reduced. You should freely feed toddlers or young children when they are hungry and dress them appropriately for the weather.

Exceptions to Fasting

There are many circumstances under which a Muslim can be exempted from fasting, including if you are a pregnant woman, diabetic, breastfeeding, menstruating, sick, or of old age. The basic premise is that you should not participate if it harms your health.

For a non-Muslim who is pregnant or breastfeeding, you should still avoid openly eating or drinking in public, likewise for children between six and 12 years. It may be allowed, but even Muslims will do this discreetly and privately – that said, in the past few years, a blind eye seems to have been turned to public eating in Dubai during Ramadan.

If you are travelling through one of the country’s major international airports, you will see full food services operating as travellers are exempt from fasting (Muslims will make up a fasting day while travelling later in the year).

Breaking of the Fast – Iftar in Dubai

The fast is broken at maghrib (the sunset prayer time) by the firing of a cannon. This is followed by the sound of the Azan echoing from a mosque’s loudspeaker.

This has been a Ramadan tradition in Dubai since the 1960s. In Dubai, seven cannons are fired at various locations stationary locations, and this year, they’ve introduced a travelling cannon. Run by Dubai Police, including Burj Park, Eid prayer grounds in Al Mankhool, Al Baraha at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai City Walk, and Expo City Dubai will also be launching the iconic Iftar Cannon with Dubai Police, taking place nightly.

A great side trip you can take is to see the nightly cannon firing at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi – more below!

Iftar is literally the breaking of the fast, the meal taken immediately after sunset. This is a time for families to come together and eat a meal. Usually, a quick snack of water and organic and gourmet dates is taken before prayers, followed by a large meal with traditional delicacies such as harees, lamb ouzi, and mixed grill.  

Many hotels in Dubai will host huge Iftar buffet extravaganzas and traditional tents for Ramadan. It is an incredibly unique experience to join in with Iftar celebrations.

You’ll find our guide to the best Iftar buffets in Dubai here

A unique experience for tourists to join is the Ramadan Iftar Program, run by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Join your local hosts for Arabic Coffee and dates, enjoy Iftar, and then visit the Diwan Mosque.

When is Iftar in Dubai?

Iftar timing varies by city as it occurs at sunset for that exact location. While the cannon is considered the official time, you can estimate the likely time based on when Maghrib is. (NB Dubai is always 4 minutes earlier than Abu Dhabi as it is further to the east).

Suhoor in Dubai

As the fast begins again at sunrise, Suhoor is the pre-dawn meal taken immediately before sunrise. Again, many hotels will provide suhoor on a grand scale, some starting suhoor offering as soon as iftar is cleared and lasting throughout the night.

You will notice Dubai can become an all-night culture during Ramadan!

Find our selection of the best Dubai suhoor spreads to try this year

Laylatul Qadr

(Also known as Lailat al Qadr) is the Night of Power, when Allah first revealed the Quran to the Prophet Muhammed.

The exact date is debated, but it is believed to be an odd date in the last 10 days of Ramadan. For many, prayers intensify in the final 10 days. 27 Ramadan is generally agreed as the night of observation; in 2026, this will likely be 15 March. It is not a public holiday in the United Arab Emirates, but something for tourists to be mindful of as it’s considered the Holiest of nights during what is already a special month.

Other Things to Be Mindful of during Ramadan in Dubai

Ramadan is not only about the act of fasting; for Muslims, it is also about abstention – including tobacco, sex, music – and tolerance.

• Appropriate dress standards must be observed in public areas (more stringently enforced than usual).  All grown-ups (including teens) should be dressed conservatively and look to have arms and legs covered in public – and certainly avoid cleavage and tight clothing. This said, just as dining rules have relaxed in recent years, it seems so have clothing rules – don’t be THAT tourist!

• Hold fire on any public displays of affection, avoid kissing, and even hand-holding between grown-ups (with your child is fine).

• In that hour or so before sunset and Iftar, the patience of many is strongly tested, and you may experience some erratic driving. Best to steer clear of the roads, and if going for your evening meal, be mindful of letting others who might need it more go before you.

• It is a time for peace and giving, so try to avoid shouting and anger, and especially no rude words or gestures.

• Most workplaces will modify working hours throughout the Holy Month to accommodate the needs of those fasting (UAE Government workers may work from home on Fridays only in 2025 – this could impact some services).

• You may also find shops have very different opening times, with many closed all day and open through most of the night.  Major supermarkets and Malls can even be open 24 hours a day!  You should have no problem finding an open supermarket throughout the day for groceries; you obviously shouldn’t consume anything until you get home.

• Mosques that are open throughout most of the year for guided tours to non-Muslims may adjust or pause their programs during the Holy Month.

• Many tourist attractions will adjust their hours, too; always check on websites/Facebook pages for changes to business opening hours at this time of year.

• Attractions such as evening desert safaris will continue to operate, but the entertainment element of their program may be paused or altered over Ramadan.

• Special events such as Ramadan Night markets and other pop-ups after dark occur during Ramadan, adding to the uniqueness of visiting Dubai at this time of year.

Ramadan Timings in Dubai

Sometimes, key attractions change their opening hours during the Holy Month, though as Ramadan has crept earlier into Spring, we have found fewer attractions are now adjusting their opening hours for Ramadan. We are presently aware of these Ramadan hours in 2026.

Transport During Ramadan in Dubai (confirmed 2026)

• The Dubai Metro will run Monday to Thursday & Saturday from 5:00 AM to midnight, Fridays from 5:00 AM to 1:00 AM, Saturdays from 5.00am to midnight and Sundays from 8:00 AM to midnight.
• Dubai Tram will run Monday to Saturday from 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM and Sundays from 9:00 AM to 1:00 AM.

Attraction Timings during Ramadan in Dubai (TBC 2026)

• Dubai Mall Shops are open Monday to Thursday, 10:00 AM to Midnight; Friday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 1:00 AM – food establishments will stay open until 2:00 AM
• Global Village presently advertising normal hours; 4:00 PM to midnight Sunday to Wednesday and 1:00 AM Thu to Sun -TBC if they’ll extend to 2:00 AM
• Dubai Frame 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
• Museum of the Future 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM
• Quranic Park 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM (Cave of Miracles and Glass House close 7:00 PM)
• Ain Dubai 10.00 AM – 9.00 PM
• Aquaventure 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Dubai Parks & Resorts Varies by the park – Legoland opens at 10:00 AM and closes 6:00 PM, Motiongate opens at 11:00 AM closes 8:00 PM/9:00 PM, and Bollywood from 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM/11:00 PM weekends
• Dubai Safari Park Day session 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (it doesn’t look like they’re doing the late-night sessions in 2023)

NB – if you’ve not visited Dubai for a few years, take note that the weekend has changed; Dubai now operates a 4.5-day week from Friday afternoon to Sunday.

Visiting the Grand Mosque during Ramadan

If you were planning a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi as a day trip from Dubai, the good news is that the Grand Mosque will remain open daily throughout Ramadan for non-Muslim visitors. There will be a 3.5-hour window in the evening when it is closed while Iftar is observed.

We have a complete guide over here on our Abu Dhabi partner website on how to visit the Grand Mosque during Ramadan.

Eid in Dubai Explained

To prevent any confusion, there are two Eid celebrations, which you will find marked by Muslim countries worldwide.

Eid al-Fitr in Dubai

Eid al fitr is the festival of the breaking of the fast, occurring immediately after Ramadan.

It is a time of festivities and daytime feasts for Muslim families, also when people will dress in their new Eid clothes, ladies will have their hair and henna done and gift-giving occurs among other celebrations.

It is a very busy time in Dubai and also a national holiday – usually lasting three to four days, but for Government agencies and schools, this may be extended to a week.

Eid al-Fitr in 2026 will be announced towards the end of Ramadan, you should expect the holiday dates to fall around 19 to 22 March 2026.

These are usually declared after the official start of Ramadan, although Eid itself is still subject to moon sighting. The first sighting of the crescent moon marks 1 Shawwal.

Charity or Zakat – another of the Five Pillars of Islam – is considered very important during Eid celebrations, giving and thoughtfulness to those less fortunate.  You may see a number of white tents popping up all over town even before Ramadan starts. These are for donating to the needy – it can be an excellent way to get your children involved in Ramadan and understand the importance of giving.

Eid al-Adha in Dubai

“The festival of the sacrifice” occurs approximately 70 days after the end of Ramadan. Arafat Day falls first, on the second day of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca –  the 9th Day of Dhu Al Hijja on the Hijri calendar.

Eid al-Adha immediately follows this. Animals such as sheep or goats are sacrificed, and tradition dictates a third is eaten by the family, a third is given to relatives and friends, and a third is given to the needy.

This is another three to four-day public holiday though can be extended to a week also for Government departments and schools (always announced very last minute)

Arafat day in Dubai is due to occur on 25 May 2025 and Eid al-Adha 26 to 29 May 2026, subject to moonsighting

Should I Visit Dubai during Ramadan?

Many visitors unfamiliar with Islamic culture are understandably nervous when they learn they will be visiting Dubai during Ramadan. Is there anything they should really worry about?

We’ll take you through some of the questions we have received over the years to put your mind at ease:

Final Thoughts on Ramadan in Dubai

Remember to park any opinions you may have about whether it is “right” or “healthy” or any other beliefs contrary to the Pillars of Islam; whether you are a visitor or an expatriate resident, you are a guest in the country, and these are the rules and local customs that must be observed.

More cultural experiences in Dubai and frequently asked tourist questions:

• What is the Call to Prayer? And what should you be doing as a non-Muslim visitor during prayer times?

• Visit the beautiful Quranic Park for a more in-depth learning experience based on the Holy Book and cultural tradition.

• How to visit a Dubai Mosque – which ones are open to the public, and how can you gain a greater understanding of Islamic culture when you visit Dubai?

• Learn more about cultural tours and meals you can take with SMCCU; not just during Ramadan, but throughout the year there are further opportunities to learn about Islamic culture and the traditions of the UAE in a welcoming environment.

You can learn more about the best time to visit Dubai, and what to expect during the different times of year here.

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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links.

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Although Dubai is in a Muslim country, make no mistake, just like Christmas, Easter is a big celebration in the local expat community that all have come to love.

Whether you are big believers in the Easter Bunny still, or simply look at it as a wonderful family opportunity to gather with your loved ones, there’s plenty going on around Dubai to help you celebrate this year in the sunshine.

Easter Dates for 2026

Easter Sunday in 2025 will fall on Sunday, 20 April 2025 (for Catholics and Orthodox Christians). This is preceded by Good Friday on Friday, 18 April 2025.

Easter in Dubai During Ramadan?

The past two years saw Easter and Ramadan coincide, so there was some uncertainty on how Christians would celebrate this event in a majority Muslim country. While it’s not polite to eat and drink in front of those fasting, venues across the city continued to hold Easter celebrations in designated areas (though there were fewer than usual public events in shopping malls, etc).

From 2025 onward, we no longer see an overlap in dates (in fact, the two won’t coincide again for another 25-odd years!), so we expect there will be much bigger and better publicised Easter events in Dubai to enjoy with the family in 2025.

Here’s the forward outlook for critical religious dates in Dubai:

Unlike Islamic religious dates, which aren’t confirmed until moon sightings occur, Easter is fixed in advance based on known moon cycles.

The United Arab Emirates enjoys a stellar reputation as a country that promotes tolerance of all religions but remember, it’s a two-way street; celebrate your religious occasions by all means, but bear in mind it’s a time of reflection and deep faith for Muslims. Your job as a visitor to the country is to provide a respectful environment for this to occur.

Weather in Dubai at Easter

Easter has traditionally been one of the best times of year for visitors to Dubai due to exceptionally nice weather for sun-seekers.

Easter falls on the first Sunday after the full moon that occurs on or after the Spring Equinox. This, generally speaking, means Easter falls between late March and early April most years.

Dubai doesn’t have a Spring per se, but March and April are as close as you’ll get when the daytime highs are hot, but early morning and evening are still pleasant to be outside.

• Find our complete guide to Dubai Weather in March here
• As well as our complete guide to April Weather in Dubai

As Easter falls quite late in April this year, you can expect very warm weather with daytime highs up to around 34°C (94°F) and lows overnight of around 22°C (71°F).

It is advisable not to be out in direct sunlight during the peak of the day in April in Dubai, or if you are, apply plenty of sunscreen and bring your hat and sunglasses.

Water temperatures still remain a little on the cool side in Dubai at Easter, though those coming from cooler climates will likely find it absolutely delightful with water temperatures around 26°C. (Most large resorts will have temperature-controlled pools if it’s still a little chilly for your liking at Easter time in Dubai).

Easter also often aligns with local and international school breaks, only increasing the popularity of visiting this time of year. Expect it to be BUSY and prices sky-high for accommodation, if you can get any!!

• You can find our favourite family resorts in Dubai here (book early), as well as those resorts that offer something a little extra, like lazy rivers and water parks with your resort.

Easter Brunch in Dubai 2026

Whilst there will be plenty of celebrations across the city, here are some traditional Easter events that always stand above the rest that you may want to pencil in your diary during your time staying in Dubai:

Please note that we are currently updating this page for Easter 2026. Most events listed below still relate to past years, we have left here as an early guide to help you plan your Easter trip to Dubai.

Easter Sunday At The Ritz Carlton

Taking place on the La Brise Lawn, a fun-filled family day can be enjoyed with live cooking stations, an easter egg hunt, live magician shows, and a bouncy castle for family entertainment. The event promises to be even bigger than last year!

• Mocktail packages start from AED 595 through to French Bubbles AED 895; kids 5-12 AED 245
• Bookings dine.dubai@ritzcarlton.com

Grand Habtoor Resort

It’s time to get eggcited about the Easter Brunch at Luciano’s Garden at the Habtoor Grand Resort. The egg-stensive buffet includes a range of international dishes as well as a sea food bar featuring oysters, muscles and crab. Finish your meal with a slice of egg-stra special carrot cake before taking part in the resort’s Easter treasure hunt.

• Easter Sunday Brunch 31 March, 12:30 PM to 4:30 PM
• Prices start from AED 350 for house beverages, rising to AED 550 with bubbles, kids 4-11 half price, under 3’s free
• To make a reservation or to find out more click here.

JA The Resort

Enjoy a world of culinary delights at JA Resorts this Easter with an international buffet served in the resort’s beautiful gardens. Live entertainment includes a saxophonist and a magic show. There will also be lots of activities to keep the little ones busy!

• Sunday, March 31st, 12.00 pm – 4.00 pm
• Prices start at AED 449 for the soft drinks package, rising to AED 499 for House Beverages. Children pay AED 250.
• For reservations, call 04 814 5604 or email restaurant.reservations@jaresorts.com

You can find our complete guide to family-friendly dining in Dubai here – or if you’ll be heading to the Capital, don’t miss the best Easter activities in Abu Dhabi.

Aquaventure

Enjoy splashing around at Aquaventure where Splasher Mountain will be dropping Easter eggs filled with cracking prizes between 8.30 and 9am followed by an Easter egg hunt at 9.30.

Sunday 31st March from 8.30 AM

For more details click here.

Plenty more to come in this list as the date nears we’ll be adding more events and information or things to do in Dubai with kids at Easter

Church Service for Easter in Dubai

We are aware of the following churches that may have special services this year – please enquire with each for Mass and order of service in your denomination:

• St Mary’s Catholic Church (services in English, French & Arabic)
• The Mar Thoma Parish, Dubai (Services in English & Malayalam)
• St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, Jebel Ali (Services in English, Arabic, German, Tamil, French, Sinhalese, Arabic, Italian, and Tagalog)
• Evangelical Christian Church of Dubai
• Fellowship (nondenominational Christian Church in Dubai)
• St. Thomas Cathedral (Orthodox)
• The Holy Trinity Church (Anglican)

We hope this guide to Easter in Dubai helps you better prepare for what to expect and a predominantly Muslim country during this important Christian event.

FAQs Easter in Dubai

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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links.

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• New Year’s Day: 1 January 2024 (1 day)
• Eid Al Fitr: From the last day of the Islamic month of Ramadan to 3 Shawwal* (approx. 10 April to 13 April 2024 –  4 days)
• Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha (Feast of Sacrifice):  From 9 to 12 Dhu al Hijjah* (approx. 15 June to 18 June 2024 –  4 days)
• Hijri New Year: 1 Muharram*  (Approx. 7 July 2024, date of observation may differ – 1 day)
• The Prophet Mohammed’s birthday: Approx. 15 September 2024, observation may occur on 16th – not always a public holiday
• Commemoration Day: 1 December 2024 (1 day)
• National Day (53rd Anniversary): 2 and 3 December 2024 (2 days)

Jump back to Previous Year: Dubai Public Holidays 2023 or Jump Forward and see when public holidays will fall in 2025

*Islamic holidays are determined according to moon sightings. The date a religious holiday is observed and the public holiday declared may be two different dates, particularly if it falls on a weekend, Friday- Sunday.

Note that the weekend in the UAE changed from 1 January 2022; Government working hours are now Monday to Friday lunchtime, and the weekend is Friday afternoon, Saturday, and Sunday.

Hijri Calendar to Gregorian Calendar

The Hijri Calendar moves forward by approximately ten days more than the Gregorian Calendar every year. There is a good translation tool here from IslamicFinder.org to understand when important days on the Hijri Calendar will translate to:

Prayer Times in Dubai

You can also check out our guide here to the daily prayer times in Dubai. There isn’t much you need to do as a non-Muslim tourist at prayer times, but it has some great tips on understanding exactly WHAT is happening and WHY.

We also share some extra pointers on having a more immersive Islamic experience during your trip to Dubai.

Dubai School Holidays 2024

There is both a public (MoE) and private (international) school sector in Dubai, governed by KHDA (Knowledge and Human Development Authority). The dates they have stipulated as holidays in a three-term school year for September starting curriculums are:

• Winter Break 9 December to 1 January 2024 (schools return 2 January 2024)
• Spring Break 23 March to 15 April 2024 (International Schools/MoE Schools – incorporates Eid al Fitr)
• Summer Break Not before 28 June 2024 until approximately 27 August 2024*

*The end of summer break is only anticipated until formally announced by the Government.

You can learn more at khda.gov.ae

Other Major Events in Dubai & the UAE 2024

Here’s what’s already lined up for the 2024 Dubai Events Calendar:

• Dubai DutyFree Tennis Championship – February 19 to March 4, 2024 at the Dubai DutyFree Stadium
• Dubai World Cup – Horse racing season with premier events taking place February – March 2024
• Ramadan – the Holy Month from approx 11 March to 9 April 2024 – note, it’s not a public holiday but a month-long religious observance, concluding with Eid al-Fitr public holidays
• Diwali – 31 October – 4 November 2024 – with a large Indian expat community, the event is widely celebrated in the UAE
• Christmas – 25 December 2024 – not a public holiday but widely observed within the retail and hospitality sector
• New Year’s Eve – 31 December 2024 always a spectacular night of fireworks and festivities not to be missed

You can see our complete guide to the best times to visit Dubai here

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links.

Dubai Travel Planner

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If you’re researching your trip to Dubai, I bet you’ve read hundreds of articles telling you, “Don’t go to Dubai in summer”, “Dubai is too hot”, “Only visit Dubai in the winter months” and our favourite “avoid Dubai in Ramadan”.

But we really think it comes down to perceptions of what makes a great vacation. Do you like to bag a bargain? Engage in outdoor activities? Spend all your time lounging by the pool by day, then clubbing at night?

Whatever sort of vacation vibe you’re going for, everyone will have their favourite time of year in Dubai; it’s certainly not a one-size-fits-all kinda destination as it’s a place that appeals to such a vast audience of travellers.

However, we here at Dubai Travel Planner have a clear worst time to go to Dubai. Well, several, in fact.

Simply put, if you hate crowds and the frustration of lining up for everything and paying top dollar, skip the most popular times of year to visit Dubai. We would suggest that the worst times to visit Dubai are:

• During the two weeks surrounding Christmas and New Year
• Any of the Eid public holiday long weekends

You’re OK to disagree with us, but honestly, we don’t think you’ll get the best perception of what the city is all about if you visit at these times.

They’re not complete no-go zones; if you love to party, attend large events, and have the cash, they could be just what you’re looking for in a Dubai vacation.

We’ll explain here why we think you’re better off avoiding these times when planning your vacation in Dubai.

What and When are the Eid Public Holidays?

So, I am sure most of us know when Christmas and New Year fall on the Gregorian calendar at the end of December/start of January, but what about Eid?

There are two Eids you need to be aware of (Eid being the Arabic word for “festival” or “celebration”) and the fact that the Arabic or Hijri calendar differs from the Gregorian calendar by about 10 days.

Eid al-Fitr (Eid ul-Fitr)

Eid al-Fitr is a festive Muslim holiday that marks the end of the Ramadan fasting month. From the 1st to the 3rd of Shawwal (the 10th Islamic month), you will find a vibrant mix of religious observances, cultural festivals and modern entertainment such as firework displays.

It is indeed a very festive time in Dubai as families and friends locally come together, and malls extend their trading hours, offering “Eid sale” specials; gifts are exchanged, new clothes are purchased and charity “Zakat al-Fitr” is abundant.

The expected dates for Eid al-Fitr in 2024 are from the night of April 9 through 12 April, though a 6-day long weekend (possibly even a 9-day break) will likely be declared.

Eid al-Adha (Eid ul-Adha)

Also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of Prophet Abraham to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command. It’s observed with special prayers, sacrificing an animal like a sheep or a cow, and sharing the meat with family, neighbours, and the less fortunate.

The city also sees festive decorations, mall shopping promotions, fireworks displays, cultural performances, and extended public holidays to mark Eid al-Adha.

Eid al-Adha occurs after the Hajj Pilgrimage to Mecca, Arafat Day (considered the most important day in the Islamic calendar), the 9th day of Dhul-Hijjah, the last month of the year. Eid al-Adha commences on the 10th day and lasts 3 to 4 days.

Arafat Day and Eid al Adha are likely to fall from 15 to 18 June 2024 (subject to moon sighting), normally resulting in a 4-day break or longer if attached to a weekend.

Whilst the festivities are great fun, you will find hotels are at full capacity over these festive breaks and attractions such as the theme parks and water parks may entice visitors with special resident offers. Simply put, everything is ultra crowded over the two Eid celebrations

The Government is notoriously slow in announcing public holiday dates; extra days are often, but not always, taken if the dates align with a weekend. The private sector and public sector are still not aligned. This causes workers and schools uncertainty and a glut of last-minute holiday and staycation bookings, driving prices in the UAE even higher.

Should You Visit Dubai During Ramadan

Ramadan can be misunderstood by those unfamiliar with the Islamic culture.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, during which Muslims around the world fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from eating, drinking, and certain other physical needs. This month is considered the holiest in Islam, commemorating the revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad. Besides fasting, Muslims engage in increased prayer, reflection, and community involvement.

A Moon Sighting Committee determines the exact start of Ramadan; however, in 2024, the holy month is anticipated to fall from 11 March to 9 April.

Things in Dubai have changed dramatically over the last ten years. Yes, it used to be a time when many businesses would all but shut down over the Holy Month; day time dining for non-Muslims could only happen in licenced premises behind closed doors, and there were hefty fines for non-compliance. This is no longer the case.

The vast majority of attractions in Dubai will keep regular hours (other than Religious tours, for example), and dining establishments remain open. You might find some smaller businesses may open just before sunset or “iftar”, the breaking of the fast.

We have a complete guide here on what to expect during Ramadan in Dubai

Overall, we think Ramadan is an excellent time to visit Dubai and the UAE. Just do it respectfully and appreciate there will be slight changes in the availability of some attractions and events. Embrace the culture at this time, attend an Iftar, see what suhoor is all about, and take the time to learn more about the religious observances.

Should You Visit Dubai in Summer?

This is honestly not the scary beast it once used to be. Yes, Dubai in summer is hot. So is much of southern Europe, Far East Asia, Africa, southern USA and the Caribbean. Because summer is, well, hot. Once you start heading anywhere near the equator, guess what?! It’s Hot!

Summer in Dubai realistically runs from the end of May to mid-October.

What Dubai does well, though, is setting up tourist facilities that help you cope with the heat. We have a detailed guide over here to tackling summer in Dubai.

If you absolutely hate sweating and the heat and prefer the outdoors to being stuck indoors, Dubai in summer is not going to be for you. There’s a good reason you read a lot of advice saying summer is the worst time to visit Dubai.

However, if you are happy to be flexible with your time, appreciate indoor attractions in Dubai during the peak heat of the day, and only venturing poolside later in the afternoon and evening, you can cope with the Dubai heat.

What you will miss out on visiting Dubai in summer are the many seasonal events that occur throughout the winter, such as Global Village, the Dubai Miracle Garden, Garden Glow, the Ripe Markets, Dubai Safari and a few other key venues that cannot cope so well with the extremes of summer.

In Dubai over the hottest summer months, July to September, you will find good hotel deals, stay-and-play packages, better all-inclusive offers and fewer crowds. For those wanting to visit Dubai on a budget – summer can actually be the best time to visit Dubai.

So, When Should You Visit Dubai?

Now this really boils down to your reasons for visiting.

Beach lovers, we recommend you look at the shoulder months; there may be a wind down in some seasonal events, but from May to June and late September and through October, you’ll find the best beach and pool weather without the peak crowds.

Things really cool down from November and through to April. It’s great to plan your stay in Dubai around many of the festivals and events in Dubai that happen in the cooler winter months, but be conscious of those absolute peak periods for crowds and prices in late December and again in mid-April 2024.

• Note school holidays locally occur from the second week of December through until 2 January, and Spring Break from late March to early April (this year, schools don’t return until after Eid al Fitr)

January and February are the best months for outdoor adventures in the UAE. Get into the mountains and enjoy some hikes, ziplining, and cycling. Take a walking tour or hop on a boat cruise.

Our favourite month of all, though, for visiting Dubai is November – we think it strikes that perfect balance between cooling days, pleasant water temperatures and plenty of fun events happening around the Emirates.

So tell us, do you agree with our argument on the worst time to visit Dubai?

We know it won’t stop most visitors from coming at these peak times, as let’s be frank, it’s when they have the time available to visit. However, we hope those who are flexible when they can travel reconsider coming at these busiest times so you can see the city shine at its best.

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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links.

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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links.

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