Abu Dhabi Ramadan Guide: Iftar, Night Markets & More

The holy month of Ramadan is nearly upon us, with the first day in Abu Dhabi for 2026 expected in late February or early March, based on the UAE Moon Sighting Committee’s announcement. Ramadan is a unique and meaningful time to explore the UAE capital, from traditional Iftar meals to cultural experiences and family-friendly attractions.

Here’s a guide to the best things to do in Abu Dhabi during Ramadan 2026:

1. Enjoy Your Free Iftar

Many Yas Island hotels offer the Stay and Play – Free Iftar package, which upgrades the usual breakfast-inclusive stay to include a complimentary Iftar meal.

Iftar, the evening meal during Ramadan, is traditionally broken with three dates and a glass of water, followed by Maghrib prayer, and then a full meal. This is a wonderful way to experience local traditions while enjoying a luxurious stay.

2. Book an Iftar Buffet

Iftar is a social and culinary highlight across Abu Dhabi. On Yas Island, top hotels and restaurants host lavish Iftar buffets, serving Arabic delicacies and Ramadan specials. Notable options include:

• Yas Majlis Iftar – Yas Links Abu Dhabi

• Yas Acres Iftar – Yas Acres Golf & Country Club

• Garage Iftar – W Abu Dhabi Yas Island

• Sidekicks Ramadan Iftar – Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island

• Assymetri Iftar – Radisson Blu Hotel Abu Dhabi

• Jing Asia Ramadan Iftar – Crowne Plaza Yas Island

• Ramadan Iftar at Yas Island Rotana

Many locations also offer Suhoor—the pre-dawn meal before the day’s fast. Ask your hotel for details, as some provide Suhoor in addition to Iftar.

3. Visit Yas Theme Parks

The Stay and Play – Free Iftar package includes complimentary theme park tickets for Yas Island attractions:

• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

• Yas Waterworld

• Warner Bros. World™

• SeaWorld® Yas Island

Other attractions include CLYMB Yas Island, home to the world’s largest indoor skydiving flight chamber and the tallest indoor climbing wall in the region.

Tip: Check theme park hours during Ramadan, as operating times may be adjusted. Dining areas are screened for public fasting observers, so visitors can eat without concern.

4. Experience a Ramadan Night Market

Visit Yas Bay’s Waterfront Nights, a lively Ramadan night market open from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. at the plaza in front of Etihad Arena.

• Shop for clothing, perfumes, and souvenirs

• Enjoy Arabic street food and beverages

• Participate in cultural activities and live entertainment

Malls like Yas Mall also remain open with extended hours, offering Ramadan-themed décor and exclusive brand collections.

5. Watch Eid Al Fitr Fireworks

If visiting Abu Dhabi on Eid Al Fitr, Yas Bay hosts spectacular fireworks displays. Eid marks the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Fireworks and celebrations make Yas Bay a prime location for families and tourists to experience the festive atmosphere.

6. Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Image: szgmc/Website

No visit to Abu Dhabi during Ramadan is complete without seeing the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

• Time your visit to witness the firing of the cannon announcing Iftar or the beginning of Ramadan.

• Enjoy a grand Iftar experience prepared by the mosque and the Armed Forces Officers Club, with air-conditioned tents and tens of thousands of meals.

• In 2023, the mosque served approximately 1.5 million Iftar meals; the 2026 Ramadan Iftar promises to be even more spectacular.

The mosque welcomes all visitors, providing a meaningful cultural and spiritual experience.

Abu Dhabi During Ramadan

Ramadan is a unique time to experience Abu Dhabi. From Iftar buffets and night markets to Yas Island theme parks, Eid fireworks, and cultural visits to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the UAE capital offers an enriching experience for tourists and residents alike.

Check out Yas Island packages, especially the Stay and Play – Free Iftar offer, for a memorable Ramadan visit.