Community spirit and good bargains take centre stage at the night markets that pop up during the holy month. Here are our top picks.
Ramadan and Eid Festival 2015
Where: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre
When: June 17 to July 16
Time: 8pm to 2am
The annual festival is back with entertainment for the entire family, stalls showcasing everything from consumer items to local customs, and Arabic food and indoor games.
• Visit www.adnec.ae
La Loupe 103 – Ramadan Caravan & Gourmet Majlis
Where: Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa by Anantara, Abu Dhabi
When: July 2
Time: 10.30pm to 1.30am
At this one-day, pop-up market, visitors can browse and buy a range of items, from freshwater-pearl jewellery by Pearl By S, yoga wear by Hot Box Kit and kaftans by Caftan Al Andalos. The food stalls are hosted by Anantara, plus there’s a majlis and music to set the mood.
Ramadan Night Market
Where: World Trade Centre, Dubai
When: July 2 to 11
Time: 8pm to 2am
The 10-day shopping fiesta just before Eid won’t have you scrambling for last-minute gifts for the family. The market will have five pavilions sellingitems including clothes, beauty products, food and electronics. Kids can be left in the play area to try their hand at sand art while you spend the evening stocking your trolley.
Ramadan Souq 2015
Where: Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi
When: July 1 to 6
Time: After evening prayers
Twenty small and medium businesses will be showcasing products, artworks and handicrafts. Ten per cent of profits will be donated to charity, in coordination with the Red Crescent Authority.
Ramadan at Impact Hub Dubai
Where: Downtown Dubai
When: Sunday to July 13
Time: 7pm onwards
Tickets: From Dh40
This year, the tech-savvy have their own intimate hangout, which will be home to a pop-up shop by Dubai-based Emirati fashion designer Fatma Al Mulla, a poetry corner by Dubai Poetry slam, plus there will be a movies and board-games night. Every Sunday during the holy month, creatives can enjoy brainstorming sessions at Hub Iftar, while on Majlis Mondays you can participate in art and cultural events.
• www.facebook.com/ImpactHubDubai
Eventra Ramadan Fair
Where: Sunset Mall, Dubai
When: Wednesday, June 24 to June 28
Time: 8pm to 1am
Local and international designers will display high-end, one-off pieces at this fair organised by Emirati Basma Al Fahim. The line-up includes Meena Rose (who has dressed Kim Kardashian), Dina Zaki, Fatma Al Mulla, Elham Al Arif, Julea Domani by Zeena Zaki and designers from The Fashion Vault.
Shop the Night, Ramadan Delight
Where: Tom & Serg, Dubai
When: Until July 17
Time: 7pm to 10pm
The Corner Shop has teamed up with Tom & Serg to create an off-the-beaten-track shopping destination. At the popular cafe, diners can enjoy the new Rule The Roast 2.0 Ramadan menu and browse the booths set up by local vendors on the second floor, which will be devoted to different brands each night, including men’s label Remy Rue, women’s line 2Birds, scarves by Charlotte Hudders; and selections from the affordable-art shop Object and Elements.
• m.facebook.com/thecornershopme
Wafi Mall Bazaar
Where: Wafi Mall Nile Area, Dubai
When: July 9 to 16
Time: 5pm to 11pm
Arabic cuisine and fashion are in the spotlight at the mall market. The mall is also hosting Layal Exhibition (June 30 to July 4), a showcase of Arabian fashion for women that doubles as a charity event – proceeds go to Emirates Down syndrome Association.
• Visit www.wafi.com
aahmed@thenational.ae
