Don’t fret that you don’t have much to do now that temperatures are rising and the greatest show of all time – Expo 2020 has drawn to a close. This magical city keeps on giving! 

The glamorous side of Dubai is the one we usually see but the city truly transforms into the mecca of culture during the holy month of Ramadan and we urge all our readers to check out all of these places and indulge in the rich culture, history, and tradition that UAE offers! 

1. Revel in the beauty of the Grand Mosque 

It features 82 domes, more than 1,000 columns, 24-carat-gold plated chandeliers, and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet. The main prayer hall also boasts one of the world’s largest chandeliers. 

So this is one you certainly don’t want to miss when exploring Dubai’s cultural assets. 

So this is one you certainly don’t want to miss when exploring Dubai’s cultural assets. 

2. Explore the Old Markets of Dubai

‘Souk’ or ‘Souq’ is an Arabic word that literally translates to ‘market’ in English.  They are traditionally open-air outdoor markets with a maze of alleys, enticing you with fragrant spices, exotic teas, shiny luxurious silks, and the finest carpets. 

The first souks of Dubai are as old as the 1850’s thanks to the port city’s accessibility. Goods arrived via the trade routes from Africa, South East Asia, and beyond, hence the markets of Dubai have always been a grand display of cultures and traditions from all over the world. 

Some of the popular markets you should visit are – Deira Gold Souk, Spice Souk, and Souk Madinat. But the one we highly recommend you don’t miss is the Ramadan Night Market at Za’abeel Hall World Trade Centre Dubai. The market has over 400 outlets for shopping. They also have a host of interactive workshops, special areas designated for kids, henna counters, and more!

3. Celebrate Ramadan with scrumptious Iftar meals

Iftar is the traditional meal that is eaten when Muslims breakfast as the sunsets. And you too can relish these meals while in Dubai! There is a slew of restaurants around the city offering delicious spreads of lavish 3-course meals, frequented and loved by locals and tourists alike and we highly recommend you to indulge in the same! 

But, if you would really like to taste the authentic Middle-Eastern Iftar, check out the tent style camps set up in the middle of the desert. It is truly surreal to enjoy and partake in an Iftar meal amongst the sand dunes with the local Emiratis just like their forefathers did! 

There is also a great pick of restaurants on the Discounter app where you can save up to 50% off on dine-in for all your friends and family! Here are a couple of our favourites: Broccoli Pizza, Shawarma Hut, Shah Ghouse Restaurant, The Hub 7 and so many more. Download The Discounter app, check them out and save $$$ with our special code! 

4. Shop till you drop with a lesser crowd

Ramadan also translates to a quieter time during the day. This means you have all day to shop in malls without the hassle of jostling your way through throngs of people. Our favourite haunts are Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and Deira City Centre. And if you want to experience the lively side, then just wait until the clock turns 9 and watch the mall come alive. You will experience a full mall at 2 am!

Also, head on to City Walk and take a stroll around the high-end boutiques – the gorgeous designer stores dotting this beautiful shopping destination. And if you want to immerse yourself in the local culture and architecture, don’t miss walking around the Al Fahidi area and then taking an abra ride to get across the canal during sunset. 

5. Marvel at Franco Dragone’s Masterpiece

The impressive La Perle is an aqua theatre located in the heart of Dubai and is a celebration of the city. It tells the story of its origins and journey through a spectacular show of dance, music, and jaw-dropping acrobatics. La Perle is the brainchild of the legendary Art Director Franco Dragone, renowned for his past roles as creative director for Cirque du Soleil and A New Day in Las Vegas with Celine Dion.

The atmosphere that engulfs the audience at La Perle Dubai is one of intense drama and action and is likely to transport you away from the dunes of Dubai into a world of magic and wonder. So be sure to take your family out to see this, because this show is bound to captivate children and adults alike! 

Most of all, Ramadan is about giving and you too can partake in this generous gesture. There are multiple organizations donating to charitable causes across the UAE and we are proud to say Discounter is also one among them. For every redemption on our app, we donate AED 1 towards multiple charitable causes. So go on now, download the app and redeem any one of our 1000s of offers for FREE!