5 things to do in Abu Dhabi during Ramadan

The Muslim holy month of Ramadan begins tonight, but if you're in the United Arab Emirates you can still explore its capital

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The month of Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection, self improvement and increased devotion in Abu Dhabi. Emirati Muslims fast during the hours of sunlight, working hours are decreased and they are encouraged to read their holy book, the Quran. However, as 70 per cent of Abu Dhabi's population are expats, there are still some daytime activities available. And at night, when the Ramadan fast can be broken, the place comes alive. Here are five things to do in the capital.

1. Visit the beaches along the Corniche

The beaches along the Corniche, Abu Dhabi (Shutterstock)
The beaches along the Corniche, Abu Dhabi (Shutterstock)

Abu Dhabi’s beachfront promenade – known as the Corniche – is bordered by parks and gardens on one side and fine white sand on the other, which attract 40,000 visitors every month.

Summer temperatures can hit 45°C, but if you go around 5pm – about two hours before the sun sets and the beaches close – you’ll avoid the midday heat.

There are beaches dedicated to families and singles and a free public one. There are more than 1,100 free parking spaces with a five-minute walk.

You can also cycle along the seafront, stopping to rest at smoothie shops, cafes and restaurants. While many of these are closed during the day during Ramadan, some open after sunset.

2. Tour Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (Shutterstock)
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (Shutterstock)

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one the world’s largest mosques, with a capacity for 41,000 worshipers. It features 82 domes, over a 1,000 columns, 24 carat gold gilded chandeliers and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet. The main prayer hall is dominated by one of the world’s largest chandeliers – 10 metres in diameter, 15 metres in height and weighing 12 tonnes. The mosque’s first ceremony was the funeral of its namesake, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan al Nahyan – the UAE’s founder –  who is buried at the site.

Male and female visitors must cover their legs and arms, and women must cover their hair. You can hire abayas (traditional dress) for free.

During Ramadan there is no afternoon tour, but you can still join free tours from 10am. Around 30,000 flock to the mosque every night during Ramadan for a free iftar – a nightly feast – which starts after sunset.

3. Attend an iftar

Conrad Abu Dhabi Eithad Towers (Shutterstock)
Conrad Abu Dhabi Eithad Towers (Shutterstock)

If 30,000-strong queues at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque don’t appeal, you can join iftars at hotels and restaurants across the city whether or not you have fasted during the day. Most are served as a buffet or set menu. Li Beirut at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers is among the best.

An iftar usually begins with dates and Arabic coffee followed by soup, rice and salads – but pace yourself, as platters of grilled meat comes next. Iftars are an opportunity to try traditional Emirati dishes such as roasted camel, tagines and lamb ouzi (spiced lamb and rice).

4. Cool off at Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi

Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi (Vladimir Zhoga/Shutterstock)
Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi (Vladimir Zhoga/Shutterstock)

The UAE’s first waterpark, on Yas Island, covers 15 hectares. The park has 43 rides and slides including the world’s longest and fastest tornado water slide, the region’s first looping water slide and the world’s first interactive water and laser roller coaster.

5. Go scuba diving

A hawksbill turtle (Shutterstock)
A hawksbill turtle (Shutterstock)

The waters around Abu Dhabi are teeming with life, so look out for Arabian angelfish, barracudas, dolphins and hawksbill turtles. Top sites include the reef off Saadiyat Island, close to the city, and off Sir Bani Yas Island, three hours’ drive south of the capital.

Ocean Dive Center runs diving trips to coral reefs, artificial reefs and wreck barges throughout Ramadan. It caters to all levels, guiding dives to depths ranging from 8m to 17m. Most packages include equipment hire and drinks.

Beth & Gaz are from Yorkshire, England. They blog at enjoythejourney.org.uk

Read more about Abu Dhabi:

First 24 hours: Abu Dhabi, UAE

7 things to do for free: Abu Dhabi

Top 6 adventures in Abu Dhabi

Beyond the city: How to explore Abu Dhabi's wild side

 

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