The Holy Month of Ramadan in Dubai comes with lots of exciting happenings and opportunities for the F&B industry. As soon as the sun dips below the horizon, the city comes alive with the smell of freshly grilled meats, the sweetness of desserts, and the hum of busy kitchens. Iftar, the golden hour of dining, takes center stage, with restaurants and diners turning up the volume on creativity, offerings, and a whole lot of flavor. The month sees a shift in dining habits, with everything from lavish hotel buffets to humble family gatherings becoming part of the Ramadan rhythm, making it a highlight of the year for both locals and visitors. 


In this article, we cover some of the main characteristics of Ramadan within the Food & Beverage industry - let’s have a look!

Iftar: The Golden Hour of the F&B Industry

As the Maghrib call to prayer signals the end of the fast, Dubai’s restaurant scene goes into overdrive. Iftar becomes the busiest and most anticipated meal of the day. Expect long lines and fully booked reservations as diners flock to enjoy sprawling spreads filled with traditional Arabic delights like tender lamb ouzi, fragrant biryanis, and the crispy, golden crust of samosas. The magic happens as the tables fill with an abundance of food, where every bite tells a story of family recipes passed down through generations. Some restaurants even double their seating capacity to cater to the growing demand, making it the ultimate dining experience for both the fasting and non-fasting crowds.

The Ramadan Effect: Dry Bars & Pubs Hit Pause

While the city’s restaurants thrive, the alcohol ban during Ramadan temporarily slows down the energy in bars and pubs. However, many of these venues are finding creative ways to stay relevant. Think elaborate mocktail menus with refreshing blends of fruit, herbs, and spices, alcohol-free lounges with laid-back atmospheres, and shisha-focused spots offering a calming ambiance to keep the evening lively. With the right pivot, these establishments are still able to create vibrant spaces for socializing, even without their signature cocktails.

The Surge in Demand for Dining During Ramadan

Delivery Services During Ramadan

As the demand for dining experiences increases, so does the need for convenience. With many preferring to enjoy their meals at home, delivery services see a sharp uptick. But not every restaurant has the infrastructure to handle the surge in orders. Those that partner with delivery platforms or create pre-ordered Ramadan meal boxes see a significant boost in business. The convenience of having your Iftar delivered straight to your door, complete with all the traditional flavors and fresh salads, makes it easy for families to enjoy the feast without the hassle.

Buffet or À La Carte? The Ramadan Dining Shift

Buffets continue to reign supreme during Ramadan as diners look for variety, value, and the joy of sampling multiple dishes in one sitting. Think long tables covered in a mosaic of Arabic mezze, grilled meats, and aromatic pilafs. But some venues are opting for a more curated experience with à la carte Iftar menus. These set menus, designed for those who prefer a more refined dining experience, often feature seasonal ingredients and specialty dishes like slow-braised lamb, creamy hummus with olive oil drizzle, and decadent baklava served with a side of traditional Arabic coffee.

Rooftop & Shisha Lounges See a Boom

With the cool evenings and mild breeze, rooftop restaurants and shisha lounges become the go-to places to unwind after a long day of fasting. Dubai’s skyline becomes a shimmering backdrop as friends and families gather under the stars to enjoy an elevated Iftar or Suhoor experience. Whether it’s sipping on fresh juices, sharing platters of mezze, or savoring a fragrant shisha, these venues offer a relaxed, social atmosphere that’s perfect for late-night gatherings.

Restaurants Extend Operational Hours

Ramadan shifts the rhythm of daily life, and restaurants adjust accordingly. While daytime dining slows down, operational hours extend to accommodate both Iftar and Suhoor crowds. Venues open later in the evening and stay busy into the early morning hours, offering everything from hearty stews and grilled meats for Iftar to lighter bites and sweet treats for Suhoor. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a leisurely meal with loved ones after a long day.

Things to Do During Ramadan: The F&B Experience

Ramadan in Dubai isn’t just about food—it’s about creating memorable experiences. Many restaurants go all out with Ramadan-themed dining, immersing their guests in the traditions and flavors of the season.

Shorter working hours for Muslims allow for more family gatherings, post-iftar walks, and visits to bustling Ramadan markets. Many spend the day keeping busy with work, light exercise, or charitable activities to ease hunger, while evenings are filled with immersive dining experiences–think majlis-style lounges adorned with intricate carpets, lanterns casting soft golden light, and live Oud music playing in the background. Venues offer more than just food; they create a cultural experience that transports diners straight into the heart of Ramadan. Many restaurants introduce special Iftar menus, featuring traditional dishes prepared with a modern twist, and offer a festive ambiance that celebrates the month’s spirit, as the city’s F&B scene comes alive after dark.

How Can Restaurants Adapt and Thrive During Ramadan?

As demand surges and dining habits shift, restaurants need a smart marketing strategy to stay competitive. Playbook has become an invaluable tool for F&B businesses during this high-demand season, offering data-driven insights, targeted promotions, and geo-targeted campaigns to maximize reach.

Curated Ramadan Promotions & Targeted Campaigns

With countless Iftar and Suhoor options available, restaurants need to craft standout promotions that capture attention. Limited-time offers, shisha lounges, set menus, and buffet deals should be highlighted through digital marketing, ensuring they reach the right audience. Geo-targeted advertising can also help drive real-time foot traffic from nearby diners actively searching for a place to break their fast.

Seasonal Marketing & Social Media Engagement

A strong online presence is key during Ramadan. Restaurants should leverage social media collaborations, influencer partnerships, and user-generated content to stay visible. Engaging content—such as behind-the-scenes prep, chef highlights, or customer testimonials—can build excitement and encourage reservations. SEO-optimized content also helps restaurants rank higher in search results, making them easier to find.

Managing Large Group Bookings Seamlessly

Ramadan often brings an influx of large gatherings, from family reunions to corporate Suhoor events. Restaurants can enhance the booking experience by offering seamless reservation systems, pre-set dining packages, and flexible seating arrangements to accommodate bigger parties without compromising service quality. Playbook also simplifies this process—both on our app and website, where group bookings can be easily made, offering convenience for guests and restaurants alike.


Playbook helps restaurants execute these strategies efficiently. From geo-targeted promotions to boosting social media visibility and streamlining large group bookings, Playbook provides the tools to maximize reach and optimize operations throughout the season.


Ramadan in Dubai is a dynamic and transformative time for the F&B industry. From elaborate Iftar feasts to late-night Suhoor gatherings, restaurants adapt their menus, operational hours, and marketing strategies to meet the increased demand. Playbook’s targeted tools and strategies help restaurants thrive during this busy season, amplifying their presence and increasing brand awareness. Want your restaurant to stand out this Ramadan? Visit Playbook’s app or website today and take your Iftar and Suhoor promotions to the next level! Follow on Instagram for the latest scoop!