Ramadan 2019 Festive Guide

With the holy month of Ramadan starting today, we round up some of the season’s iftars and suhours to set the perfect backdrop for meaningful seasonal gatherings with family, friends, colleagues and clients.

Flavours of the desert

Set in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s desert, enjoy a taste of Arabia with dishes prepared in big open-style kitchens showcasing charcoal kebab grills and a traditional saj oven at the Bait Al Hanine restaurant at the recently opened Jumeirah Al Wathba Desert Resort and Spa.

Enjoy live oud music in the background while your children play in the specially designed kids’ corner. The resort is an ideal hideaway for couples and families seeking a tranquil escape, situated in Al Wathba which is a historical location with rich Emirati resonance and home to the annual Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival – one of the biggest cultural events in the UAE.

Mediterranean experience

OPA has a special Greek Iftar menu for the holy month including a soup of the day, dates, cold and hot starters, a main course and a dessert. Located at The Fairmont Hotel, the new charming Greece-inspired interiors are designed to transport you to a quaint and enchanting Greek island.

The authentic flavours combine classic Hellenic techniques with a Mediterranean touch for a unique twist with the menu featuring a delectable assortment of tender grilled meats, zesty salads and fresh fish preparations. Kleftiko, the star of the menu, is a tender braised lamb shoulder, accompanied with feta mash and mint salad served on the side.

By the sea

Set by the water with sweeping views of the Burj Al Arab, the five-star Jumeirah Al Qasr’s Khaymat Al Bahar, or ‘Tent of the Sea’ in Arabic, is inspired by the culinary traditions of the Gulf’s diverse community of Bedouin tribes. Seven rotating menus feature a spread of more than 18 starters, nine main courses and numerous desserts.

Main courses being rotated during Ramadan include Kofta bel Seney (minced lamb dish), mixed grill and Djej Bil Senyeh (baked garlic chicken with potatoes), while international palates can sample baked salmon, vegetable Thai green curry, shrimp masala and baked mushroom pasta.

Health and wellness

The Retreat Palm Dubai MGallery by Sofitel’s Iftar is all about being healthy and even includes a free genetic test. The traditional Arabian Iftar buffet includes three live cooking stations, date and halawet market, a healthy cold mezze with superfood dressings, as well as authentic lean lamb Ouzzi, flavour-infused chicken shawarmas and fresh Manakesh.

Guests are also invited to choose from four test areas including weight loss management, micronutrient management, food intolerance, and skin care and anti-ageing management.

Break your fast at the world’s tallest building

If you’re looking for quiet sophistication and gracious service, the Armani Hotel ballroom’s subtle Arabesque design provides elegantly styled ambience and gracious service for an Iftar or Suhour with clients and colleagues.

Or enjoy a four course special Iftar meal with family at Armani’s Indian restaurant Amal along with a stunning view of The Dubai Fountain.

Inspiration from the Silk Route

The Manzil Downtown features an inspiring spread of cuisines from across the trade routes that have historically connected the East and West. Connect with different traditions and witness the influence of Europe, Asia and Africa on your Iftar or Suhour table and at live cooking stations in a contemporary Arabesque lounge and courtyard.

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