In the UAE, Ramadan is a religious event and a cultural celebration, especially regarding food. The month showcases a variety of cherished dishes and beverages, with each region offering its unique specialities. Popular Iftar favourites like hares and luqaimat reflect the rich culinary traditions of the UAE. This guide highlights the UAE’s most popular iftar foods and drinks and how the nation celebrates Ramadan through culinary practices.
Popular Iftar Dishes In The UAE
1. Vine Leaves
Vine leaves are dolma made from grapevine leaves stuffed with rice or meat. Often served as part of a cold mezze platter, vine leaves offer a refreshing and aromatic start to the iftar meal. Their tender texture and savoury filling make them popular for breaking the fast, showcasing the UAE’s rich culinary tradition during Ramadan.
Where: Across the Middle East
2. Tabbouleh And Fattoush
Fattoush and tabbouleh are popular dishes in the UAE during Ramadan due to their light and refreshing nature, providing a perfect balance after fasting. With its crispy fried khubz and tangy lemon dressing, Fattoush offers a flavourful, refreshing start to Iftar. Tabbouleh’s fragrant mix of parsley, bulgur, and fresh vegetables is a healthy, aromatic side dish that complements heavier meals.
Where: Lebanon
3. Kibbeh
Kibbeh, which comes from the Arabic word ‘kubbeh’, meaning ball, are bite-sized snacks consisting of bulgur wheat and minced lamb or beef filling. These tasty snacks are perfect for sharing with friends and family, providing a satisfying and filling option after a day of fasting. Their popularity during Ramadan in the UAE comes from their delicious taste and the tradition of gathering food to break the fast together.
Where: Syria
Also Read: Dubai Mall To Get Bigger Next Month With 65 New Shops & It’s Just In Time For Ramadan
4. Harees
Harees is an authentic Emirati dish made from wheat and meat, usually chicken or lamb, cooked to a creamy consistency. In the UAE, it’s a popular iftar dish during Ramadan due to its hearty, filling nature, providing energy after fasting. Its rich flavours and comforting texture make it a favourite for sharing with family and friends during the holy month.
Where: UAE
5. Kousa Mahshi
Kousa Mahshi is a beloved Middle Eastern dish that showcases the exquisite flavour of stuffed zucchini, known as kousa. This dish features a delicious filling made from rice, minced meat, and aromatic spices. The stuffed zucchinis are then gently simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce until they reach a tender texture. In the UAE, Kousa Mahshi holds a special place during Ramadan, serving as a delicious and nutritious option for iftar meals.
Where: Lebanon
6. Dawood Basha
Dawood Basha is a traditional Middle Eastern dish featuring delicate meatballs, typically made from ground beef or lamb, cooked in a flavourful tomato sauce with spices like cinnamon and coriander. In the UAE, it’s a popular iftar dish during Ramadan, offering a savoury and satisfying meal after fasting.
Where: Across the Middle East
7. Kunafeh And Baklava
Kunafeh is a popular Ramadan dessert in the UAE because its rich, comforting texture and sweetness make it a perfect treat to break the fast at Iftar. The warm, syrup-soaked layers provide a satisfying end to the day’s fast, symbolizing celebration and sharing among family and friends. Baklava, also favoured during Ramadan, offers a crispy, sweet contrast with its flaky layers and nutty filling, making it another go-to treat for iftar gatherings in the UAE.
Where: Palestine
8. Umm Ali
Umm Ali is a traditional Egyptian dessert made from layers of puff pastry, milk, sugar, nuts, and raisins, all baked together until golden and creamy. It’s popular in the UAE during Ramadan for its rich, comforting flavour and satisfying texture. The warm, sweet dish is perfect for breaking the fast, offering a delicious balance of sweetness and creaminess. Since it comes in large portions, people share Umm Ali with family and friends, making it a beloved dessert during Ramadan gatherings.
Where: Egypt
9. Vimto
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Vimto is a popular choice for a refreshing drink during Ramadan, especially in the UAE, where it has become a staple. Its delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavours makes it an ideal beverage for breaking the fast at Iftar. Originally from the UK, Vimto’s popularity has grown significantly in many Middle Eastern countries.
Where: United Kingdom
10. Jallab
Jallab is a traditional Middle Eastern drink made from date syrup, grape molasses, and rose water, typically served chilled with pine nuts and sometimes raisins. It is popular in the UAE and Gulf countries and enjoyed during Ramadan for its refreshing sweetness. Jallab provides energy and hydration after fasting, making it a favourite choice for Iftar during the hot summer months.
Where: Lebanon
The UAE’s unique blend of cultures and nationalities also brings various cuisines to the table during Ramadan, enriching the food experience.
Cover Image Courtesy: Vimto Website and Canva Stock Images
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First Published: February 25, 2025 7:35 PM