As the Holy Month approaches, Ramadan in the capital takes on a warm, welcoming glow. This year, Ramadan Nights at Umm Al Emarat Park returns, transforming one of the city’s most cherished green spaces into a vibrant hub of culture, connection and celebration. Running throughout Ramadan, the much-loved initiative invites families, friends and visitors to gather under the stars and embrace the spirit of togetherness that defines this special time of year.
Set against the backdrop of Abu Dhabi’s cooler evenings, the park becomes more than just a place to stroll. It turns into a shared living room for the community — where conversations linger, children laugh freely and the gentle sounds of traditional music float through the air.
A Community Gathering Rooted in Tradition
Ramadan Nights at Umm Al Emarat Park first captured hearts with its thoughtful blend of heritage and hospitality. Following its successful debut, the experience returns with an even fuller programme designed to celebrate unity and the UAE’s Year of Family.
Every evening at Maghrib prayer time, visitors gather at the Main Gate for one of the most anticipated moments of the night — the firing of the Iftar cannon. The echo signals the time to break the fast, and for a brief pause, the park falls still. It is a tradition that connects generations, bringing history to life in a simple yet powerful way.
Families often arrive early, laying out picnic blankets across the lawns, preparing dates and water in anticipation. The cannon’s sound is more than ceremonial; it is symbolic of patience, gratitude and shared experience.
The Ramadan Garden: Iftar Beneath the Open Sky
At the Children’s Garden, the dedicated Ramadan Garden opens daily from 6pm to 8:30pm, offering a serene outdoor Iftar setting. Surrounded by greenery and softly lit lanterns, guests can break their fast in a peaceful atmosphere designed for comfort and connection.
Live oud music adds to the ambience, creating a soothing soundtrack for the evening. The menu, curated by Emirati chef Mariam Al Mansoori, celebrates authentic flavours inspired by family recipes and Emirati hospitality. Traditional Ramadan drinks are included, while special rates are available for children aged six to 12. Little ones under six can enter free of charge, making it an accessible experience for the whole family. Corporate group bookings are also welcomed, offering companies a meaningful way to gather during the Holy Month.
The setting encourages guests to slow down. Conversations stretch long after plates are cleared, and children explore nearby play areas while adults savour the cool evening air.
A Lively Ramadan Pop-Up Market
On Fridays and Saturdays from 8pm to 1am, the Promenade comes alive with a vibrant Ramadan Pop-up Market. Designed to spotlight small businesses and local talent, the market brings a dynamic energy to the park’s tranquil surroundings.
Visitors can browse handmade crafts, unique gifts and artisanal products while sampling treats from a variety of food vendors. Lantern-making workshops invite children to create their own glowing keepsakes, while hakawati storytelling sessions revive the cherished Middle Eastern tradition of oral storytelling.
Live Arabic music performances add rhythm to the night, and familiar traditional characters roam the area, delighting younger guests. The market becomes a meeting place — where neighbours reconnect and visitors discover something new with each visit.
Wellness and Reflection in the Evening Garden
Ramadan is also a time for quiet reflection and personal renewal. For those seeking moments of calm, the Evening Garden hosts wellness sessions designed to nurture both body and spirit. Among the highlights is a Full Moon Ceremony scheduled during the month, offering participants a guided experience beneath the night sky.
These sessions provide a gentle contrast to the lively market atmosphere, reminding visitors that Ramadan carries both celebration and contemplation in equal measure.
A Month-Long Celebration for All Ages
Throughout Ramadan, Umm Al Emarat Park extends its opening hours from 10am to 2am, giving visitors plenty of time to enjoy both daytime relaxation and evening festivities. Entry to the park is priced at Dhs10, ensuring the experience remains accessible to residents and tourists alike.
The beauty of Ramadan Nights lies in its balance. It blends heritage with modern touches, lively entertainment with peaceful reflection and culinary tradition with contemporary flair. Whether you come for the Iftar cannon, the music, the market or simply a quiet walk beneath the palm trees, the park offers space to experience Ramadan in your own way.
Children chase each other across open lawns, grandparents share stories of Ramadans past and friends reunite after long days of fasting. The atmosphere feels intimate yet inclusive — a reminder of Abu Dhabi’s strong sense of community.
Experiencing Ramadan in Abu Dhabi
Ramadan in Abu Dhabi carries a unique charm. The city’s landmarks glow softly at night, and gatherings feel intentional and heartfelt. At Umm Al Emarat Park, that spirit becomes tangible. Lanterns shimmer against the greenery, the aroma of freshly prepared dishes drifts through the air and the sound of the oud invites visitors to pause and listen.
More than an event, Ramadan Nights at Umm Al Emarat Park is an invitation — to share, to reflect and to celebrate. It offers a meaningful way to embrace the Holy Month, surrounded by nature and community.
As the evenings unfold, the park becomes a canvas for memory-making. Families return week after week, building traditions of their own. And in those simple, shared moments — breaking bread together, listening to music, watching children play — the true essence of Ramadan shines brightest.
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