Cultural Iftar ( Ramadan)
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 4 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Cultural Iftar ( Ramadan) worth booking?
Cultural Iftar ( Ramadan) is a 3-hour experience in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from AED 90 per person. It scores 57 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 5/5 rating across 4 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 57 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (4)
- Duration
- 3 hours
- From
- AED 90 per person
It is an authentic experience on how Emiratis break their fast. All your questions about Ramadan, Islam and the culture in general can be answered. There is an exclusive mosque visit included
What you get
About this experience
It is an authentic experience on how Emiratis break their fast. All your questions about Ramadan, Islam and the culture in general can be answered. There is an exclusive mosque visit included
What's included
Included
- Dinner
- Program with an Emirati presenter
Not included
- Private transportation
What you'll see and do
Our Ramadan Iftars take place in the wind-tower house in the heart of Al Fahidi District, the Historical Emirati neighborhood. Your evening begins with the Athan (the call to prayer) followed by the breaking of the fast with your Emirati hosts. Enjoy Arabic coffee and dates and then take a moment to watch your hosts pray, before a delicious array of Emirati dishes are served for Iftar. During the event, you are invited to ask any questions you may have about Ramadan, the culture Of the traditions of the UAE. After Iftar, join us for a visit to the Diwan Mosque, before returning to SMCCU house for dessert and tea. There will also be a designated kids area with fun activities.
180 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Dubai
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding
Know before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 4 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
3 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
3 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Organization
1 mentionPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Good for families
1 mentionReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Traveler reviews
4 verified traveler reviews for Cultural Iftar ( Ramadan). Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Review
Fabulous experience with a fabulous organization - lovely agenda that welcomed us to learn about Ramadan, fasting and any other aspect of the faith and culture. Speakers were well prepared, informative, warm and welcoming.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear you had a fabulous experience and enjoyed learning about Ramadan, fasting, and the rich Emirati culture. Our speakers are passionate about sharing these traditions, and it’s wonderful to know their warmth and knowledge made an impact. We truly appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you back soon!
via Tripadvisor
Wonderful "Ramadan Iftar Cultural Experience"
私たちは、2024年4月6日の夜に開催された”Ramadan Iftar Cultural Experience”に参加して、素晴らしい時間を過ごすことができました。これは、ドバイのSheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding（SMCCU）とその近くのモスクで行われ、45名ほどが参加していました。 到着時には、スタッフの方々は、優しく招き入れてくださって、とても丁寧に対応してくださいました。質問にはすぐに対応してくださいました。 集合場所となったSMCCUは、建築されて750年ほど経っているそうです。 一番広いお部屋には、イフタール（Iftar）という断食あけのディナーの準備がされていました。床には、赤色のきれいなカーペットが敷かれ、立派な金銀色のポットに食事の用意がされていました。テーブルはなく、食事を囲みながら、床に座って食べるのが、こちらの習慣だそうです。これは、日本の畳に座って食べるのと同じで、びっくりしました。今回は、床の上に置かれたクッションの上に座って、ディナーをいただきました。いろんな国の方々と、Chiken Biryani, Veal Harees、Lamb Margogaなど、現地の料理をいただいていると、参加者の方々、スタッフの方々と、家族になったような、安心した温かい気持ちになりました。歴史のあるこちらの建物で、家族のようなおもてなしを受けられたことが一番印象に残りました。 その後、ムスリムの衣装を着る体験を初めてしました。近くのモスク（多分、the Diwan Mosque）に歩いて移動し、入り口にて、イスラムのお祈りの衣装を着せていただき、モスクの中に入ることができました。とても美しいモスクでした。一番驚いたのは、カーペットの柔らかさです。ふかふかのカーペットが敷かれていました。後で、スタッフの方に伺うと、イスラムのお祈りでは、手と額を床につけることがあるので、カーペットは額がついても痛くないように柔らかいと言うことでした。 お祈りからセンターに戻ってきてからは、Um AliやLugaimatなどのデザートとコーヒーと紅茶をいただきました。その間、スタッフの方々は、現地の方々の服装、宗教を始めとする色々な質問に丁寧に答えてくださいました。お話から、UAEの歴史も感じ取ることができました。 初めていただいたデーツのソースがかかったドーナツ(Lugaimat)と、パンプディングのようなUm Ali はとても美味しかったです。 その後の現地の衣装の着付けの時には、とても丁寧に私たちに着つけて下さいました。 ドバイの旧市街の衣食住の経験を十分に満喫した素晴らしいイベントでした。 SMCCUは既に、25年以上活動しているそうです。このセンターで活動している皆さんのお話から、ドバイの文化を次の世代にも伝えていこう、という情熱も感じました。何人もの若いスタッフが意欲的に活動していました。この大切な活動を応援したいと思いましたので、コメントさせていただきました。 皆様に、ぜひ、お薦めします！ *** We attended the "Ramadan Iftar Cultural Experience" held on the evening of April 6, 2024 and had a wonderful time! The event was held at the Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding （SMCCU）in Dubai and a nearby mosque, with around 45 participants. Upon arrival, the staff welcomed us kindly and answered to our questions with care. The meeting place, SMCCU was built about 750 years ago. In the largest room, The fast-breaking dinner called Iftar was prepared. A clean red carpet was spread on the floor, and food was prepared in fine gold and silver pots. We learnt their custom: There is no tables, and people eat while sitting on the floor surrounded by food. This was similar to a Japanese custom, ie, eating while sitting on a Japanese tatami mat, which surprised me. This time, we sat on cushions on the floor and had dinner. We had local cuisine such as Chiken Biryani, Veal Harees, and Lamb Margoga with people from various countries, I felt at ease and warm as if I had become family with the participants and staff. What impressed me most was that I was treated like family in this historic building. After that, I had my first experience wearing Muslim clothes. We walked to a nearby mosque (probably the Diwan Mosque), and at the entrance, we were dressed in Islamic prayer clothes and entered the mosque. The mosque was very beautiful. What surprised me the most was the softness of the carpet. There was a fluffy carpet. Later, when I asked the staff, they said that in Islamic prayers, people put their hands and foreheads on the floor, so the carpet was so soft that it wouldn't hurt even if they touched their foreheads. After returning to the center from prayer, we had desserts such as Um Ali and Lugaimat, as well as coffee and tea. During that time, the staff kindly answered various questions such as the local people's clothing, religion, and more. I was able to get a sense of the history of the UAE from the talk. The donuts (Lugaimat) with date sauce and Um Ali, which is like bread pudding, were especially delicious to me. Later, when we tried the local clothes, the staff dressed us with care. It was a wonderful event where we fully enjoyed the food and culture of Dubai's Old City. SMCCU has been operating for over 25 years. From the stories of staff at this center, I felt passion for passing on Dubai’s and UAE's culture to the next generation, and young staff members were enthusiastic and active. I would like to support this important activity, so I wrote this comment. I highly recommend this cultural experience and SMCCU to everyone!
Response from the operator: Dear okunoh2024, Thank you so much for your detailed and heartfelt review! We’re thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the "Ramadan Iftar Cultural Experience" and felt welcomed like family. Your appreciation for the food, traditions, and our passionate staff truly warms our hearts. We look forward to welcoming you back for more cultural adventures! Warm regards, The SMCCU Team
via Tripadvisor
Excellent Tour for Teenagers
Our 3 groups did both the Cultural Lunch and Creek Tour. Led by Yousef & Omar who were both engaging, patient and knowledgeable. Our group were students aged 15 from Mexico and they all enjoyed both parts of the day.
Response from the operator: We absolutely enjoy having the students on the Creekside tour! We'll be seeing you again hopefully :)
via Tripadvisor
A great cultural experience
We had a very pleasant evening with the iftar ceremony. Our presenter was a young lady, very kind and talkative, she really captivated us with her presentation. She answered very honestly to all our questions. The iftar meal was copious and excellent, we were even offered to take away the remaining food. The visit of the mosque was also a rare experience for me as non-Muslim.
Response from the operator: Dear Chtronkopuc, Thank you for your feedback and we hope to see you soon =).
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- AED 90 to AED 180
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 1
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Why this scores 57
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Cultural Iftar ( Ramadan): questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Dubai.
How much does Cultural Iftar ( Ramadan) cost?
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Prices start at AED 90 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Dubai usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Cultural Iftar ( Ramadan) take?
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Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Dubai is not rushed.
Is Cultural Iftar ( Ramadan) worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 57 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 4 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Dubai, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Cultural Iftar ( Ramadan)?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Cultural Iftar ( Ramadan) suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Cultural Iftar ( Ramadan)?
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Around 1 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Dubai can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Dubai and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Cultural Iftar ( Ramadan) start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Dubai within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Dubai?
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On Outty we rank every Dubai experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Dubai Premium Red Dunes Safari, Camels & 5* BBQ at Al Khayma Camp, Dubai: Red Dunes Safari, Quad, Camel, Dune Bash, BBQ & Shows, Dubai Evening Desert Safari Dune Bashing, BBQ Dinner & Live Shows. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Dubai?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Dubai?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Cultural Iftar ( Ramadan)?
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Included: Dinner; and Program with an Emirati presenter. Not included: Private transportation. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Cultural Iftar ( Ramadan)?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Cultural Iftar ( Ramadan) wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Specialized infant seats are available; and Transportation options are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Cultural Iftar ( Ramadan) if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Cultural Iftar ( Ramadan)?
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Across 4 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, food and drink, organization. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
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