Ramadan in Dubai is a magical time when the city comes alive with lantern-lit streets. And of course, the aroma of sizzling kebabs, and the comforting clatter of tea glasses at bustling cafeterias. While the uber luxurious iftar buffets sometimes steal the spotlight, Old Dubai holds some of the city’s most underrated yet soul-satisfying iftar spots. If you’re looking to break your fast with authentic flavors in a nostalgic setting, here are six iftars in Old Dubai you must check out!
Also read: Free Iftar Spots in the UAE: Where Generosity Meets Those Who Need It Most
1. Arabian Tea House, Fahidi
Want to feel like you’re having iftar at a cozy Emirati home? Arabian Tea House is your spot. For AED 150, you get an iftar experience that pays homage to the holy month. Begin your meal with a choice of Vimto, Tamar Hind (tamarind juice), or Laban Ayran. Follow it up with a comforting Arabian Tea House soup to warm the soul. The iftar platter includes sambosas, perfectly crisp and filled with spiced meat or vegetables, alongside harees, a slow-cooked wheat and meat dish that’s a Ramadan staple, and moutabel, a smoky eggplant dip. For mains, indulge in Machboos Laham, a spiced rice dish with tender lamb; Mix BBQ, featuring juicy kebabs grilled to perfection; and Biryani Aryay, a fragrant, spiced rice dish that’s rich in flavor. And of course, what’s iftar without something sweet? Indulge in luqaimat (golden-fried dumplings drizzled with date syrup) and mahalabia (a silky, rose-infused milk pudding). Sip on traditional Arabic coffee and tea, and you’ve got yourself a heartwarming iftar in a setting that captures the essence of Ramadan.
2. Louzan Star, Near Gold Souq
In the heart of Deira, near the bustling Gold Souk, the Ramadan energy is on a whole new level. The vibrant streets are buzzing with the chatter of families gathering for iftar, the scent of sizzling grills, and the sound of the call to prayer echoing through the alleyways. This is where you’ll find Louzan Star Cafeteria, a hidden Persian gem that serves up an iftar experience true to the spirit of Old Dubai. It’s more of a street-style iftar, where you soak in the atmosphere while enjoying authentic Persian flavors. Be sure to try their regag, a thin and crispy Emirati-style crepe often stuffed with cheese, honey, or eggs, and ash, a hearty Persian soup made with lentils, chickpeas, and fresh herbs, perfect for breaking your fast. However, plan to arrive before 7:30 PM, as they switch to serving only shawarma after that.
3. Karachi Darbar, Karama
You haven’t truly lived until you’ve had iftar at Karachi Darbar. A household name for Pakistani comfort food, this spot is perfect for those who want to feast without burning a hole in their wallet. Iftar deals start at just AED 7 (yes, you read that right!), while the full buffet costs AED 29. Whether you’re craving rich, velvety haleem, spicy nihari, or their legendary biryani, Karachi Darbar guarantees a feast that’s both flavorful and budget-friendly.
Also read: Craving a South Indian Iftar? These 7 Dubai Spots Serve It Up for Under AED 50!
4. Lido Restaurant, QE2 Hotel, Port Rashid
Feeling fancy but still want that Old Dubai charm? Lido Restaurant aboard the Queen Elizabeth 2 (yes, the actual ship!) offers a royal iftar experience. Think slow-cooked lamb ouzi, grilled meats, and drool-worthy Middle Eastern desserts like kunafa and baklava. Oh, and did we mention the sea views? With the sun setting over Port Rashid, this might just be the most scenic iftar in town. Priced at AED 159 per person (kids 6-11 dine for AED 90), it’s a luxurious way to break your fast without venturing into the glitzy parts of town.
5. Delhi Darbar, Karama
Delhi Darbar knows how to do iftar right, and they’re making it easy for you to enjoy at home too! Their family iftar box (AED 89) is an absolute feast. Imagine golden, crispy samosas (eight of them!), juicy shami kebabs, and crispy cutlets. Then, there’s the bhajiya – deep-fried, crunchy, and totally addictive. Need more? You’ll also get creamy chicken tikka, fragrant firni, and syrupy gulab jamun. Perfect for an entire family!
6. Al Ustad Special Kebab, But Dubai
A hidden gem that has been around since the 1970s, Al Ustad Special Kebab is nothing short of an institution. With walls adorned with nostalgic photos and tabletops covered in different world currencies, this place oozes character. But let’s talk about what really matters: the food. Their juicy kebabs, marinated in secret spices and grilled to perfection, are legendary among iftar-goers. Served with fragrant saffron rice, topped with dollops of butter, and rich with bursts of pomegranate, every bite is a delightful mix of flavors. Their must-try dish? The Kebab Khas, made with a flavorful chicken or mutton broth that takes its richness to the next level. But if you want something truly unique, go for their kebab with sour yogurt, a house specialty that perfectly balances smoky and tangy flavors. Wash it all down with a soothing cup of black tea with fresh mint, and you’ve got an iftar that lingers in your memory long after Ramadan ends.
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