Driving down to Ras Al Khaimah for an iftar almost seems like an indulgence that few have time for in our busy lives. But when you cut it, a 45-minute drive down to the coast is just another day on Shaikh Zayed Road during rush hour.
Located at the gateway to Al Marjan Island, Al Fayrouz Ramadan Tent is a luxurious majlis set up by the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), which will continue through to the football season when the Fifa World Cup 2018 rolls in mid-June.
Take the time to get there around dusk, with the beachside venue offering unparalleled views of the sunset over the sparkling waters of the Arabian Gulf.
As the final rays disappeared over the horizon, we headed towards the inviting buffet to tuck into a selection of Arabic mezze. Felafels, fatayers, kibbeh and the traditional hot dishes served a perfect complimentary add-on to the hummus and the mutabal. Those with varied tastes can even start off with crackers and a wide selection of gourmet cheeses before making way to the soups and the main courses.
The JW Marriott Dubai catering doesn’t disappoint, with Iranian rice, infused with pomegranate and saffron, accompanied by lamb koftas that called out to many diners for second and third servings.
A meat biryani, Moroccan vegetable tagine, veal harissa were the clear winners of the night, going by the fan following and the number of times the buffet items were replenished.
Aside from a main dining area, the tent also offers 10 private majlis areas and other VIP seating for those who want to continue on post iftar and settle in with family and friends for shisha and a late suhour.
The details
Where: Al Fayrouz Ramadan Tent, Ras Al Khaimah
Timings: From 6.30pm until 8.30pm for iftar; suhoor from 9pm until 2am on weekdays and 3am on weekends.
Price: Dh150, plus taxes, for adults and half price for children aged six to 12; kids below six dine for free. Suhoor is a la carte.
OTHER IFTARS TO TRY IN RAS AL KHAIMAH
The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Hamra Beach
The beachside property offers a family-style iftar menu at its Shore House restaurant, from sunset until 8pm, with live Arabic entertainment. The menu includes Ramadan favourites, traditional main courses and desserts, from Dh165, plus taxes. Suhour is a set menu from 9pm until 1.30am, for Dh105 per person, plus taxes. Shisha is also offered until 1.30am.
Marjan Island Resort and Spa
This Ramadan, the resort is running a promotion whereby a booking for iftar and suhour will include a complimentary stay at this Ras Al Khaimah beachside property. Book yourself in the buffet at Aysya restaurant for the two meals and a family of three (two adults and one child below six years) can stay one night complimentary in a superior room. Add Dh100 for an upgrade to a premium room and Dh200 for an upgrade to a one-bedroom suite for a family of four.
Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort and Spa
The beachside resort is hosting two iftar spreads across the property, at Maarid and Al Maeda Lebanese restaurant.
The former is the hotel’s all-day dining venue, offering pool views as you feast on a buffet for Dh130 per person. Al Maeda is the hotel’s new offering, with Lebanese cuisine given a contemporary twist. The set menu is priced at Dh165 per person.
The Cove Rotana Resort Ras Al Khaimah
Another property with views of the sea, you can indulge in a buffet serving Middle Eastern and international cuisine, with live cooking stations, Arabic desserts and fresh juices at Cinnamon restaurant. Priced at Dh155 per person. Suhoor spread is laid out from 11pm, priced at Dh99 per person.
