In Abu Dhabi, Ramadan nights bring an unmistakable energy to the city that's only felt at this time of year. As the sun sets, restaurants fill with iftar gatherings, shops stay open well past midnight and the streets hum with people.
Here's how to make the most of those magical hours, from a sunset iftar all the way to a pre-dawn suhoor gathering.
Breaking fast is the heart of every Ramadan evening. Umm Al Emarat Park fires a cannon at sunset to mark the moment.
Hotels and restaurants go all out with lavish iftar spreads – think Arabic mezze, slow-cooked stews, fresh juices and dozens of desserts.
Yas Mall, The Galleria Al Maryah Island and Abu Dhabi Mall usually stay open until at least midnight, with hours stretching until 1 AM or 2 AM over weekends.
With seasonal collections and Ramadan promotions always in store, you'll find it extremely easy to while away a few late-night hours, shopping up a storm.
Looking for a more traditional shopping experience? Umm Al Emarat Park usually hosts a pop-up weekend night market until 1am, with handmade crafts, food stalls, lantern making and storytelling.
Mina Zayed Souk is ideal for items like carpets, spices and dates for gifting, while the Gold Souk at Madinat Zayed is a favourite for those seeking something timeless.
Sometimes the simplest plans are the sweetest. A post-iftar walk along the Corniche has sea breezes, city views and plenty of space for kids to run free.
Stop for ice cream or spread out a blanket, and keep an eye out for pop-up Ramadan festivals and kid-friendly workshops lining the walkway.
Find special Ramadan events at places like Qasr Al Watan and Louvre Abu Dhabi, which often extend hours or host evening programmes during the holy month.
Qasr Al Hosn, the city’s oldest building, usually brings a Ramadan majlis, poetry, live oud music and stargazing to the fort each evening.
Suhoor is the pre-dawn meal eaten before the next day’s fast begins, and hotels and restaurants across Abu Dhabi serve it long after midnight.
Many offer set menus or à la carte options with live music and views, so you can make it the last stop of a long evening. Book ahead, and bring along friends or family.
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