Iftar review: Al Mafraq Hotel: Oasis Oriental

The Ramadan spirit of family, friends, and generosity can sometimes be absent, when trying to enjoy an iftar out. However, the Ramadan atmosphere is the one thing Al Mafraq Hotel’s ‘Oasis Oriental’ does not lack.

Located out in the middle of the desert in Shakhbout city, Al Mafraq is a great place to get away and indulge in an oriental and international style iftar. Foodies who prefer a variety of choices when at a buffet will appreciate the Middle and Far Eastern tastes on their plate, as well as the more Western dishes.

Once you have had a date to break your fast, the bright coloured vegetables on the salad table are your first challenge to conquer. Creamy hummus, fresh potato and corn salads were my starters, accompanied by a warm and bright red tomato soup.

The tomato soup matched the colour of the traditional pattern of the Ramadan tent. The dominating red, white streaks and shapes of black surrounding you and your family breaking bread together during sunset, giving you a historic Arabic feel.

While scanning the buffet for what you desired nothing was too far to miss or reach, as the small setting added to the cosy environment. When going back for the main course, typical Ramadan eats such as chicken kabsa could be found among the macaroni, sweet and sour chicken, fish and a variety of rice, including white basmati, all flavour-filled and light.

The lamb ouzi, Arabic mixed grill and the kunafah are all a must to try when visiting this oasis in the desert. On my third round I grabbed some of the desserts: Umm Ali, my go-to pudding, is accompanied by bite-sized pieces of fresh fruit and chocolate cake. An array of Arabic sweets can be found as well, with just the right amount of sweetness, (at times they can be overloaded with sugar).

For those of you who are more health-oriented, an abundance of fruits can be found, while those inclined to finish their iftar with a more traditional feel, dates and coffee are always available as well as jallab throughout the meal.

All in all, for residents looking for a family-oriented, traditional and light atmosphere this Ramadan, the Oriental Oasis is definitely a place to try out. With kids laughing and playing around the tent, and delicious food to match, it is an experience not to miss.

The details

Where: Al Mafraq Hotel: Oasis Oriental

Price: Dh111 (one night package of two iftars and suhours, Dh363)

Timing: 7pm-2am

Call 02-6596666

— Heidi Pullyard is a trainee at Gulf News