Flights to popular destinations in the United Arab Emirates are costlier now than they were this time last year, according to Wego, one of the largest online travel agencies in the Middle East and North Africa. Prices for popular locations including the Philippines, Germany, and the UK have increased when departing from the United Arab Emirates compared to a year ago.
As per the Emirates Astronomical Association, Wednesday, April 10 is the anticipated day of Eid al Fitr. The average fare to the Philippines is currently Dhs1,331.93, down from Dhs895.56 in 2023—that is if you were lucky enough to score a ticket during the recent Dhs1 seat flash sale.
Additionally, the average cost of flights to Germany and the UK has increased by 60.42 per cent and 23.88 per cent, respectively, year over year. Additionally, ticket costs to other destinations will rise as the holidays draw nearer and more families decide to take vacations.
According to a survey from Wego, which has one of its headquarters in Dubai, there is four times as much interest in flying overseas for Dubai Eid al Fitr this year as there was last year.
Travel from the United Arab Emirates to India, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan during March and April is highly sought after this year. A number of the largest expat communities in the United Arab Emirates are hoping to take advantage of the anticipated six days off by returning home.
Things to do
Dubomedy brings the funny
Check out “Dubomedy’s Ramadan Vibes,” which features stand-up and storytelling, for an entertaining evening. Suhoor deals will be available all night long. Reservations are required for the free event at TGI Friday’s Outdoor Garden.
Free. Mar 31, 9 pm. TGI Friday’s Outdoor Garden, Rove Hotel Downtown. @dubomedy (04 561 9000).
Play with snow at Ski Dubai
Ski Dubai is giving Ramadan a whole new vibe. For just Dhs295, spend a full day at the snow park with an unlimited number of rides and attractions in addition to one complimentary activity of your choice, such as the Penguin Encounter, Ski or Snowboard Discovery Lesson, or Slope Pass. Are you bringing the entire family along? You can get five for four with Ski Dubai’s Ramadan Family Pass (Dhs1,200).
From Dhs295. Daily, 10 am-11 pm (Mon-Thu); 10 am- midnight (Fri); 9 am-midnight (Sat-Sun). Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha. @skidxb (04 409 4000).
Free pre-iftar meditation at Wagamama
Karly Sarah, a wellness specialist, will be leading a session called “Reflective Feasts” at Wagamama this Ramadan. You have the opportunity to participate in guided meditation, affirmation, and reflection during these sessions, which are designed to help you reiterate the real goal of fasting. The mindfulness session, which happens right before dusk, focuses on encouraging people to lead healthy lives both during and after Ramadan and on mindful eating. There is an interactive Q&A session after the workshop. Lastly, attendees are urged to break their fast with Wagamama’s exclusive Dhs99 iftar menu.
Free. Mon Mar 18 from 5.30pm-6.30pm in Dubai Marina Mall. Mon Mar 25 from 5.30pm-6.30pm in Motor City.Mon Apr 1 from 5.30pm-6.30pm in Mirdif Mall. wagamama.ae
Kids’ special at Times Square
This will be a hit with the youngsters. During Ramadan, take the family to Times Square Centre every weekend for a day full of entertaining activities. Every weekend, children under five can participate in face painting, lantern decorating, and wall doodling, while older children can attempt finger crocheting, Henna stencil painting, and painting candleholders and coasters. Up until Tuesday, April 9 between 12 and 5 p.m., the DesignTechnology Centre StuDIYo Lab will also include their Try Me Sessions of woodworking activities.
Fri Mar 15–Sun Apr 7, 2pm-8pm.Atrium, Ground Floor, Times Square Center. @timessquaredxb (04 341 8020)
Check out Artisan Market at City Walk
Wander through City Walk’s Artisan Market. You can get everything from bespoke jewellery and accessories to handcrafted home décor and customised clothing at the pop-up market, which stretches from Allo Beirut to Saya restaurant.
Free. Daily, from Mon Mar 18-Mon Apr 15. City Walk. @citywalkdubai
Get fit with UFC GYM Middle East
On Saturday, March 16, start your day at Rixos The Palm Dubai with a healthy start. This weekend at 10 a.m., UFC GYM Middle East is having an MMA beach workout lasting an hour. When you sign up, you get free access to the beach and pool for the entire day, as well as food and beverages until six o’clock. Win-win.
Dhs249. Sat Mar 16, 10 am-6 pm. Rixos The Palm Dubai. Palm Jumeirah (04 457 5555).
Have Iftar at Vietnamese Foodies
Enjoy a four-course iftar special at Vietnamese Foodies and indulge in authentic Vietnamese food. Chef Lily has created a range of nutritious vegan, gluten-free and speciality dishes. Start with a selection of salads, a hearty pho noodle soup, and appetisers including crispy coconut prawns and vegan spring rolls. Main courses like Sichuan chicken stir-fried with jasmine rice, vegan curry, and pho Tron should be served with plenty of room. There is a set menu for iftar that may be delivered to more than ninety Dubai neighbourhoods or eaten in. There are alternatives for upgrades. Click here to make an order or reserve now.
Dhs109 (per person). Daily during Ramadan. All Vietnamese Foodies’ locations.
It’s showtime at Zabeel Theatre
Purchase a ticket for one of the engaging evenings listed on the Zabeel Theatre’s event schedule and satisfy your craving for theatre this month. For example, The Mailman, a humorous play, is being performed at the theatre on Thursday, March 21 if you know Farsi. The Friday, March 29 stand-up special is called She Said What. On Monday, April 1, the Russian play Surprise will be performed on stage. Additionally, on Thursday, April 11, and Friday, April 12, Max Amini will speak. The schedule includes a tonne of workshops specifically designed for kids.
Various. Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Hotel, Palm Jumeirah. @artforalluae (056 611 2719).
FAQs
Are there any special events or activities planned for Eid in Dubai?
Yes, Dubai typically hosts a variety of events and activities during Eid al-Fitr. These may include fireworks displays, cultural performances, traditional markets (souks), special offers at shopping malls, and festive dining experiences at various restaurants and hotels.
Will there be any changes to public transportation schedules during Eid?
It’s common for public transportation schedules to be adjusted during the Eid holidays in Dubai. Residents and visitors are advised to check with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) for any updates or changes to bus, metro, tram, and water taxi services closer to the date.
Are there any specific customs or traditions observed during Eid in Dubai?
Eid al-Fitr in Dubai is marked by various customs and traditions. These may include attending prayers at mosques, exchanging greetings and gifts with family and friends, wearing new clothes, giving to charity (Zakat al-Fitr), and enjoying festive meals with loved ones.