Ramadan 2025: Five must-visit souqs and night markets in Dubai

Dubai: With Ramadan underway, several markets across Dubai are open, offering spaces for community gatherings, cultural activities, and shopping. These markets provide a blend of traditional and contemporary experiences for residents and visitors observing the holy month.

Visitors can explore a variety of settings, from heritage-inspired souqs to outdoor markets. Many feature stalls with Ramadan-related items, food, and entertainment, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Whether looking for a traditional marketplace or a modern event, there are plenty of options to explore throughout the month.

Check out the Ramadan Prayer Time Table 2025

1. Home of Ramadan Wonders at Global Village

Global Village has transformed into a ‘Home of Ramadan Wonders,’ featuring Ramadan-themed decorations and special offerings in shopping, dining, and live performances. A key highlight this season is the Ramadan Cannon, located beside the Main Stage, which fires at sunset each day to mark the end of fasting.

New for this year, Global Village has introduced the Multaqa Global Village, a free-of-charge majlis-style seating area. This space offers a relaxed setting with floor cushions, low tables, and festoon lights, providing visitors with a comfortable place to gather.

During Ramadan, Global Village has extended its opening hours. It welcomes guests from 5pm to 1am from Sunday to Wednesday and 5pm to 2am from Thursday to Saturday.

2. Hai Ramadan at Expo City Dubai

• Dates – February 27 to March 30 (Dates subject to lunar sighting)

• Timings – 5pm to 1am 

• Entry fee: Dh35 (Children under 3 and People of Determination with one caregiver enter for free)

Hai Ramadan returns to Expo City Dubai, bringing cultural activities, community iftars, and entertainment to Al Wasl Plaza. The event includes:

• Emirati-themed stations and community seating along Al Wasl Avenue

• The traditional Iftar Cannon

• Live stage shows and curated music performances, including a special concert by the Firdaus Orchestra

• Dedicated prayer spaces, including an Expo City Mosque, offering Taraweeh and Tahajjud prayers

• A Quran memorisation programme held daily between Asr and Maghrib prayers

3. Ramadan Market at Dubai Festival City Mall

Dates - March 9 to April 15

Dubai Festival City Mall’s Ramadan market offers a vibrant, family-friendly experience. The market features a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment, including a pop-up Ramadan tent where visitors can take part in cultural activities highlighting the region’s heritage.

4. Ramadan District at DIFC

Dates – From 8 to March 23

For an outdoor market that blends Emirati traditions with contemporary experiences, visit Ramadan District at the Jumeirah Emirates Towers Plaza Terrace in DIFC. This free-entry market features:

• Homegrown brands and regional designers

• Culinary experiences, homeware, apparel, and accessories

• Live entertainment and cultural showcases

• A dedicated children’s area with workshops and activities 

5. Ramadan at the Park - Zabeel Park

• Dates – March 6 to March 23

• Timings – Monday to Thursday from 5pm 12am and Friday to Sunday from 5pm to 1am

During Ramadan, visitors can gather with family and friends each night at Zabeel Park Amphitheatre to enjoy a festive programme, along with iftar and suhoor experiences featuring international flavours and traditional sweets.

This free event has live performances, interactive games, and sports activities will bring the spirit of Ramadan to life. Guests can enjoy storytelling from Hakawati performers, live music, and classic games such as backgammon and chess. Children can have fun at the 'Kids’ Corner', which includes bouncy castles and carnival games.

A Ramadan marketplace will offer handcrafted goods, homegrown brands, traditional attire, jewellery, and a variety of gifts for seasonal shopping.

This article was orginally published on February 12, 2025 and has been updated since.