Break your fast in style.
We’re well into the Holy Month by now, but there are still some must-try iftars we haven’t yet hit up. You won’t be surprised to hear that in Dubai, we’re spoiled for choice. Consider this an edited highlights package.
If you’re not familiar, iftar refers to the post-sunset meal that those who fast enjoy together at the end of the day. As the Holy Month is all about togetherness and family, many Dubai institutions put on special feasts to help people catch up.
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Here are our picks for the best Dubai iftars running through Ramadan 2018. The Holy Month looks likely to begin on May 17.
Dubai Opera
This is sure to be something special. Once again, the Dubai Opera’s auditorium is being transformed into a banquet hall, with a buffet catered by Sean Connolly, live entertainment, and cooking stations. The team are promising a modern twist on traditional Arabic favourites, along with tempting desserts and juices. We’re interested for the setting alone.
Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai, daily from sunset to 9.30pm. Dhs250 per person. Tel: (04) 440 8888. dubaiopera.com
Burj Al Arab
If you’re after opulent surrounds as you break your fast, this is the move. The seven-star Burj Al Arab has a number of offerings running throughout the Holy Month, from an iftar buffet in the Al Falak Ballroom to a suhoor a la carte menu on the Scape terrace. For a truly special moment, there’s also the option to book a royal cabana and break your fast with views of the sea and the Dubai skyline. That will set you back Dhs2,400.
Burj Al Arab, daily from sunset. From Dhs255 per person. Tel: (04) 301 7600. jumeirah.com
Madinat Jumeirah
We love the atmosphere of the Madinat Jumeirah year-round, but it’s particularly special during Ramadan. Then, Al Majlis hosts a hugely popular iftar buffet in Arabesque surrounds. It’s all about true Arabian hospitality, they say, and groups small and large will be well looked-after. Special seating options and shisha are available.
Madinat Jumeirah, daily sunset to 8.30pm. From Dhs220 per person. Tel: (04) 432 3232. jumeirah.com
Tagine, One&Only Royal Mirage
This Moroccan spot promises buffet and a la carte options, with ambience to match the celebratory menu. Enjoy your chicken tagine and sherry fish charmoula while oud and tablah players provide the soundtrack.
Tagine, One&Only Royal Mirage, Al Sufouh, daily 7.30pm to 2am. Dhs230 per person. Tel: (04) 399 9999. oneandonlyresorts.com
Address Boulevard
They’re selling this as a royal iftar, and going from the super-luxe surrounds of the Address Boulevard, we’d believe it. The hotel’s ballroom will be transformed, with food served family-style to the long communal table. Gorgeous.
Address Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, daily from sunset. Dhs195 per person. Tel: (04) 561 8888. theaddress.com
Dish
This contemporary iftar is a pop-up set in an Al Quoz warehouse, with food served to the table to share. Expect treats like grilled flat bread with burnt eggplant, shankliesh, herbs and sumac, corn-fed chicken koftas, cured sea bass, and a pistachio and raspberry sundae for dessert.
Dish, Warehouse 4, Al Quoz, daily from sunset. Dhs195 per person. Tel: (056) 1283247. dish.ae
Farzi Cafe
For a City Walk option, popular Indian fusion spot has you covered. They’re putting on a set menu for Ramadan, including chicken tikka pockets and curry leaf prawns. We’re most excited for the dessert—see the kunafa nest above. Beautifully presented, as per.
Farzi Cafe, City Walk, daily 7pm, 9pm or 11pm. Tel: (04) 394 2556. farzicafe.ae
Khaymat Al Bahar, Jumeirah Al Qasr
For traditional Lebanese flavours, look no further. Jumeirah Al Qasr is a beautiful setting with views of the Madinat waterways, and Khaymat Al Bahar’s iftar buffet is one you don’t want to miss.
Khaymat Al Bahar, Jumeirah Al Qasr, daily from sunset. Dhs195 per person. Tel: (04) 432 3232. jumeirah.com
Suq, Four Seasons Resort Dubai
Suq’s head chef, Yahya Osman, has designed a special Ramadan menu that will be on offer throughout the month. Expect Arabic favourites and international dishes, too. Plus, there’s the option of breaking your fast while dining in a tent. The Four Seasons Resort is one of our favourites, so this should be special. We also hear there’s a full ice cream parlour…
Suq, Four Seasons Resort Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Road, daily sunset to 9pm. Tel: (04) 270 7777. fourseasons.com
JW Marriott Marquis
Here’s another ballroom iftar—and this one promises a delectable international buffet. For the Holy Month, the JW Mariott Marquis’ Dubai Ballroom becomes the Al Fanous lounge. It’s the perfect spot to catch up with a group.
JW Marriott Marquis, Business Bay, daily sunset to 8.30pm. Dhs225 per person. Tel: (04) 414 3000. jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com
Images: Supplied
