If you’re looking for a fresh, feel-good way to enjoy Ramadan this year, Abu Dhabi has something special lined up. A brand-new Ramadan Festival is set to take over Abu Dhabi City, Al Ain and Al Dhafra with food, performances, night markets and family-friendly fun! Think lively evenings, cultural moments, and that comforting Ramadan togetherness we all love. The Ramadan Festival 2026 will kick off on February 20 and runs throughout the holy month. I have even more exciting details where that came from, so keep reading to find out more.
Also Read: Dubai: 7 Gorgeous Ramadan Majlis/Tents You Must Visit For Iftar & Suhoor
Made For Ramadan Nights
The festival will run daily from 8pm to 2am, perfectly timed for post-iftar plans. Each location will feature specially designed “Ramadan neighbourhoods” that recreate the warm, communal vibe of the holy month. Expect open-air spaces where families and friends can gather, stroll, eat, shop and soak in the atmosphere together.
A curated selection of food and beverage trucks will serve everything from traditional Ramadan drinks to suhoor options and easy late-night bites. It’s designed for relaxed evenings, whether you’re popping by after taraweeh or making a full family night out of it.
Culture At The Heart Of It All
This festival puts Emirati heritage front and centre while celebrating how Ramadan is enjoyed today. Visitors can look forward to traditional performances like Al Ayala and Al Harbiyah, poetry evenings, Arabic calligraphy displays and storytelling sessions for children. There will also be musical acts and theatrical shows happening across all venues, adding to the festive feel.
Lantern-Lit Souqs & Local Finds
No Ramadan celebration is complete without a market, and this one promises a charming Ramadan souq experience. Lantern-lit walkways will lead to stalls selling local handicrafts, handmade items and Ramadan-inspired gifts. The focus here is on small businesses and unique finds, making it a great place to pick up something meaningful rather than mass-produced.
While families and children can enjoy interactive workshops, puppet shows, creative activities and games across all three locations. It’s all about creating a space where kids stay entertained while parents enjoy the cultural and social side of Ramadan.
Three Locations, Easy Access
To make things even more convenient, the festival will run on staggered dates across the emirate. Al Ain and Al Dhafra will host the festival from February 20 to March 1, followed by Abu Dhabi Corniche from February 27 to March 8. This means more people can enjoy the festival without travelling far. The locations include ADNEC Al Ain (Outdoor Area) in Al Ain, Madinat Zayed Park in Al Dhafra, and Abu Dhabi Corniche in the capital.
While mosques, majlis and neighbourhood traditions remain at the heart of the holy month, this festival adds another option for meaningful, shared evenings out.
Entry will require tickets, which will be available on Platinumlist. Pricing details haven’t been announced just yet, so keep an eye on Gulf Buzz if you’re planning to attend.
