Ramadan is one of the most important months in the UAE, and if you’re living in or visiting Dubai during Ramadan 2026, it’s natural to wonder: are restaurants open, and can you eat out normally?
The short answer is yes — restaurants in Dubai remain open during Ramadan, but with adjusted timings, dining formats, and cultural guidelines. This guide explains everything you need to know about eating out in Dubai during Ramadan, including restaurant hours, daytime dining rules, iftar and suhoor options, and tips for tourists.
Are Restaurants Open in Dubai During Ramadan?
Yes. Restaurants in Dubai stay open throughout Ramadan, including cafés, food courts, fast-food chains, and hotel restaurants.
However, operations change slightly:
- Some restaurants limit daytime dine-in
- Takeaway and delivery remain available all day
- Evening hours are extended for iftar and suhoor
- Many restaurants offer special Ramadan menus
Hotels, malls, and international restaurant chains generally operate without major restrictions.
Typical Restaurant Timings During Ramadan (2026)
Restaurant timings vary by location and category, but here’s what you can generally expect:
| Time of Day | Dining Situation |
|---|---|
| Morning – Afternoon | Many cafés and chains open for takeaway & dine-in |
| Late Afternoon | Restaurants prepare for iftar |
| Iftar (Sunset) | Peak dining hours |
| Late Night | Suhoor service at select spots |
📌 Tip: Always check Google Maps or the restaurant’s social media for updated Ramadan hours.
Can You Eat During the Day in Dubai During Ramadan?
Yes — eating during the day is allowed inside restaurants.
Dubai follows a tourist-friendly and multicultural approach, so:
- Dining inside restaurants is permitted
- Food courts may use screens or partitions
- Takeaway and delivery services operate normally
Eating or drinking openly in public places (such as streets or public transport) is generally discouraged during fasting hours, but tourists are not penalized.
Iftar Dining in Dubai: What to Expect
Iftar is the most vibrant dining experience during Ramadan in Dubai.
Popular Iftar Options
- Hotel iftar buffets
- Set menus at Arabic & international restaurants
- Rooftop and waterfront dining
- Family-style group meals
Most iftar meals start at sunset, and reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends.
Suhoor Restaurants in Dubai
Suhoor is the pre-dawn meal, and Dubai offers many late-night dining options during Ramadan.
Where to Find Suhoor
- Hotel lounges
- Cafés in busy districts
- Shisha cafés (where permitted)
- Select 24-hour restaurants
Some venues remain open until early morning, making suhoor a social experience during Ramadan nights.
Are Malls & Food Courts Open During Ramadan?
Yes. Dubai malls and food courts operate as usual during Ramadan.
You can expect:
- Normal opening hours
- All food outlets functioning
- Seating areas adjusted for privacy
- Busy evenings after iftar
Delivery apps like Talabat, Deliveroo, and Careem Food remain fully active.
Can Tourists Eat Freely During Ramadan in Dubai?
Yes. Tourists can eat normally in Dubai during Ramadan, especially inside restaurants.
Helpful tips for visitors:
- Use hotel restaurants for daytime meals
- Avoid eating openly in public transport
- Dress modestly when dining out
- Respect fasting hours in public areas
Dubai welcomes millions of visitors during Ramadan every year, and dining infrastructure is well adapted.
Alcohol & Dining During Ramadan
- Alcohol service may be restricted during daytime
- Many hotel restaurants serve alcohol after iftar
- Bars usually reopen in the evening
Rules vary by venue, so it’s best to confirm directly with the restaurant.
Why Dining in Dubai During Ramadan Is Still Enjoyable
Despite adjustments, Ramadan is actually a great time to explore Dubai’s food scene:
- Exclusive Ramadan menus
- Cultural dining experiences
- Calmer daytime ambiance
- Lively evenings and nights
For many residents and visitors, Ramadan dining & Ramadan Street Food in Karama becomes a memorable part of their Dubai experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are restaurants open during the day in Ramadan in Dubai?
Yes. Many restaurants operate for dine-in, takeaway, and delivery during the day.
Can non-Muslims eat during Ramadan in Dubai?
Yes. Non-Muslims can eat freely inside restaurants.
Do restaurants close completely during Ramadan?
No. Restaurants remain open with adjusted hours.
Is takeaway food allowed during fasting hours?
Yes. Takeaway and delivery services operate normally.
Is Ramadan a good time to visit Dubai?
Yes. It offers cultural experiences, quieter days, and lively evenings.
Final Thoughts
So, are restaurants open in Dubai during Ramadan 2026?
Absolutely — with minor timing and dining adjustments.
Whether you’re a resident or a tourist, Dubai ensures that dining remains convenient, respectful, and enjoyable throughout Ramadan. From daytime cafés to lavish iftar spreads and late-night suhoor spots, the city continues to serve one of the world’s most diverse food scenes — even during the holy month.
Sunita KS is a passionate Blogger, Content Writer, and Digital Marketer. She started her journey in content creation over a decade ago. She brings up-to-date information to help readers explore and enjoy everything Dubai has to offer. Sunita loves discovering hidden gems across the city and sharing tips on places to visit and things to do in Dubai.
