Dubai Culture Unveils “Ramadan Nights” Across Heritage Sites

Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has announced the full programme for “Ramadan Nights”, a special initiative celebrating Emirati culture, and the traditions, values, and customs linked to the holy month of Ramadan.

The programme aims to strengthen community connection, encourage a sense of belonging, and allow both residents and visitors to experience the authentic Ramadan atmosphere in Dubai.

“Ramadan Nights” supports the ‘Ramadan in Dubai’ campaign, held under the umbrella of the Season of Wulfa, an initiative that focuses on reinforcing family bonds and celebrating Emirati social and cultural occasions. The programme also reflects Dubai Culture’s efforts to preserve local heritage and reinforce Dubai’s image as a city of tolerance, coexistence, and respect for diverse cultures.

Activities at Al Safa Art & Design Library

A major part of the programme will take place at Al Safa Art & Design Library, where the outdoor courtyard will host a wide range of workshops and interactive activities organised by Dubai Public Libraries under the School of Life initiative.

Key activities include:

• Free Drawing Space, where visitors can create Ramadan-inspired artworks

• Ramadan Thoughts Wall, allowing participants to share reflections and messages

• Ramadan Lantern Decorating and Colouring Wall, designed for families and children

• Treasure Hunt, featuring puzzles and hidden Ramadan symbols across the library

• Board games corner and a traditional Ramadan majlis for family gatherings

Visitors can also take part in creative workshops and experiences such as:

• Henna design

• Arabic calligraphy

• Matcha preparation

• Perfume-making and scent blending

The evenings will also feature cultural entertainment including:

• Live musical performances

• A traditional storyteller (hakawati)

• Choral performances inspired by Ramadan

In addition, the library will host a Creative Market, giving artists, entrepreneurs, and local talent a platform to showcase and sell handmade products and Ramadan-inspired artworks.

Al Shindagha Museum Programme

At Al Shindagha Museum, the UAE’s largest heritage museum, visitors will be able to experience cultural activations inspired by the traditional Arish.

Highlights include:

• A Ramadan iftar majlis with live cooking demonstrations

• Cooking sessions led by selected Emirati chefs

• Storytelling sessions focusing on generosity and hospitality in Emirati cuisine

The museum will also feature:

• Live demonstrations of palm-inspired traditional crafts

• Interactive heritage craft experiences showing the importance of the palm tree in Emirati daily life and architecture

• Poetry evenings and dialogue sessions exploring the social fabric of old Dubai

Etihad Museum Film Screening

Meanwhile, Etihad Museum will host a screening of the film Mountain Boy, followed by a discussion with:

• Director Zainab Shaheen

• Producer Nancy Paton

• Writer Michelle Ziolkowski

• Actor Naser Almessabi

• Guest Saleh Almessabi

Workshops at Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children

At Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children, the programme will include workshops and interactive activities inspired by the values of Ramadan.

Visitors can enjoy:

• Islamic arts experiences

• Henna workshops

• Basic music techniques

• An artists’ market featuring creative talents

• Games and traditional foods

The centre’s programme reflects the values of Al Woulla, based on three pillars: reflection, connection, and blessings.