Ramadan, a month of profound spiritual reflection and community, holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims worldwide. It is a time of fasting, prayer, and increased devotion, culminating each day with the cherished moment of Iftar, the breaking of the fast. This sacred meal, marking the end of the day's abstinence, is more than just sustenance, it is a symbol of unity, gratitude, and shared experience. 

While many choose to gather at home, a significant portion, particularly in vibrant cities like Abu Dhabi, seek to embrace the pleasant Ramadan evenings by enjoying Iftar in the open air. In fact, a 2024 survey revealed that a substantial 27% of UAE residents prefer to have their Iftar meals outside their homes during Ramadan, reflecting a desire to savour the delightful weather and communal atmosphere.

This year, due to the pleasant weather and rising costs, restaurants across the UAE have increased Iftar buffet rates, especially in hotel restaurants, reflecting the heightened demand for dining out. Whether you seek a luxurious buffet or a more intimate gathering, knowing the accurate Iftar time is essential for a seamless and enjoyable experience. 

With its stunning landscapes and diverse culinary scene, Abu Dhabi offers many outdoor Iftar experiences, from serene beachside settings to lush garden retreats and breathtaking rooftop venues. However, planning the perfect outdoor Iftar requires careful consideration, especially regarding the crucial timing of "iftar time", which varies daily with the sunset — it is vital to stay updated.

The Sandy Times aims to guide you through the best outdoor Iftar locations in Abu Dhabi, ensuring you can create unforgettable Ramadan memories while embracing the city's unique charm and the spirit of this holy month.

Iftar time refers to the precise moment when the fast is broken, which coincides with sunset (Maghrib). Due to the earth's rotation and the sun's changing position, sunset occurs at slightly different times each day. Consequently, the Iftar time in Abu Dhabi also varies daily throughout Ramadan.

Iftar holds immense cultural significance in Abu Dhabi, as in other Muslim-majority regions. It is a time for:

To ensure accurate timing for iftar, residents and visitors can consult the following resources:

Abu Dhabi presents a delightful array of outdoor Iftar experiences, perfect for those seeking a scenic and memorable Ramadan. Saadiyat Beach Club offers seaside Iftar evenings, where traditional flavours meet the elegance of a coastal setting, complete with an Iftar buffet and Ramadan juices at 245 AED per person. 

The Majlis by the Sea at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental invites guests to gather under the stars for an indelible Iftar, boasting breathtaking views of Qasr Al Watan and the Abu Dhabi skyline, alongside a diverse culinary journey featuring pop-ups from esteemed restaurants. 

To experience authentic Arabian meals, head to the Oléa Mediterranean Restaurant at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort. It provides both indoor and outdoor seating, showcasing a fusion of Arabian and international cuisine, including live grill stations and performances. Plus, West Bay Lounge at Radisson Blu Abu Dhabi Corniche offers a à la carte Ramadan menu with direct sea views for a relaxed beachfront atmosphere. 

Bab Al Nojoum Hudayriyat delivers a family-friendly beachside Iftar with a lavish buffet, majlis-style seating, music, and engaging activities for children.

Several garden settings offer a serene escape for a tranquil Iftar experience in Abu Dhabi. Emirates Park Zoo presents a unique opportunity to break your fast amidst wildlife, with a buffet in beautifully decorated tents, perfect for families and animal enthusiasts. Layali Shahrazad provides a stunning alfresco Iftar under the stars, featuring a lavish buffet with gourmet dishes and cooking stations, complemented by soulful Arabic music. 

The Oasis Tent at Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi creates a magical atmosphere with live oud and qanun music, offering a diverse buffet of Emirati, Moroccan, Indian, Turkish, and international cuisines. Yas Links Golf Club provides a refined Iftar experience with a live BBQ station and traditional mezzeh.

In contrast, Roots Bar & Kitchen at Yas Acres Golf Club provides a curated Arabic feast in a family-friendly setting with access to a kids' club. The Millennium Downtown Abu Dhabi Garden Restaurant presents a lavish Iftar buffet with traditional and international dishes in a warm and inviting ambience. 

These garden locations provide a relaxed and serene environment, allowing guests to unwind and enjoy their Iftar. The combination of natural surroundings, gentle music, and delectable food creates a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for larger gatherings, especially at locations like Layali Shahrazad, the Oasis Tent, Yas Links, Roots Bar & Kitchen, and The Garden Restaurant, which offer ample space and accommodating settings.

Abu Dhabi's rooftop and terrace venues provide diverse outdoor Iftar experiences, combining spectacular views with delectable cuisine. For a sky-high Iftar, Layali El Hilmiya at Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi offers panoramic 360-degree views, a gourmet feast, and live entertainment, with dining in the grand ballroom. And Ishtar Rooftop Restaurant in Yas Marina presents a North African and Middle Eastern set menu featuring grilled meats and couscous, accompanied by DJ entertainment after sunset. 

Balcon Lounge & Terrace at Southern Sun Abu Dhabi gives a Middle Eastern mezze experience with live cooking stations, Ramadan juices, and qanun music on their outdoor terrace. For a more ground-level terrace experience, Kamoon at Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana showcases Levantine cuisine with live music and sunset views, offering both Iftar and Suhoor options. 

Grills At Chill'O at Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche allow for Iftar under the stars with a buffet. Alba Terrace delivers an Italian-inspired Iftar buffet with Ramadan favourites on a lush outdoor terrace with intimate seating. These locations offer diverse culinary offerings, from Levantine and Middle Eastern to North African and Italian, along with entertainment like music, qanun performances, and DJ sets, catering to various preferences and creating memorable Ramadan iftars.