The Ramadan Street Food Festival Dubai returns this year from 19 February to 18 March 2026, bringing authentic flavors and vibrant culture to Sheikh Hamdan Colony in Karama. This popular event offers locals and visitors a fantastic way to celebrate Ramadan with delicious street food, lively entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
Whether you are a food lover, culture enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun evening during Ramadan, the Ramadan Street Food Festival Dubai is an event you should not miss. Here is everything you need to know about this exciting festival.
What is the Ramadan Street Food Festival Dubai?
The Ramadan Street Food Festival Dubai is an annual celebration that highlights Dubai’s rich and diverse street food culture, with a special focus on South Indian and Asian cuisines. It transforms two key locations in Karama—Flavour Lane and Culinary Crossroads at Karama Park—into bustling hubs filled with food stalls, trucks, and pop-up kitchens.
With more than 70 restaurants participating, visitors can enjoy a wide variety of authentic dishes that represent Dubai’s multicultural food scene. From spicy kebabs to sweet treats, the festival offers a unique culinary journey through the lively streets of Karama.
When and Where to Go
Dates: 19 February to 18 March 2026
Location: Sheikh Hamdan Colony, Karama, Dubai
Timings: Open daily from iftar (sunset) until late at night
Entry: Free
Sheikh Hamdan Colony is well-known for its vibrant food scene and is easily accessible. The festival runs every evening after sunset, making it an ideal place to enjoy fresh meals right after breaking your fast.
What to Expect at the Festival
Authentic Food from Karama’s Best Eateries
Karama is famous for its authentic South Asian and Asian restaurants, many of which are local hidden gems. The festival brings their best street food dishes to one place. You can enjoy flavorful kebabs, tangy chaats, soft aapams, and many other delicious dishes, all freshly prepared to offer a true taste adventure.
Fun and Family-Friendly Atmosphere
The festival is designed for all ages. In addition to the food, there is plenty of entertainment such as live music, tanoura dancers, stilt walkers, jugglers, henna artists, calligraphers, and caricature artists roaming the area. This creates a festive and joyful environment that everyone can enjoy.
Children especially love the carnival zone where they can play games like Ring Toss, Smash the Can, Hook a Duck, and Basketball Throw. These games add a fun element that makes the festival great for families.
Community Iftars
One of the highlights of this year’s festival is the 18 community iftars held during Ramadan. These events bring people together to break their fast, share food, and celebrate the spirit of Ramadan in a communal way that strengthens community bonds.
Must-Try Foods at the Ramadan Street Food Festival Dubai
No visit to the festival is complete without trying these popular dishes:
Kebabs – Juicy, spiced meats grilled over open flames, served with chutneys and bread.
Chaats – Crunchy, tangy, spicy, and sweet Indian snacks that are full of flavor.
Aapams – Soft, bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice batter, often paired with curry or coconut milk.
Sweet Treats – Traditional desserts such as kunafa, qatayef, and gulab jamun, perfect for breaking your fast.
These dishes, among many others, showcase the rich culinary traditions celebrated at the festival.
Tips for Enjoying the Ramadan Street Food Festival Dubai
Arrive just after iftar to enjoy freshly prepared food as the festival opens at sunset.
Bring family and friends as the event offers food and activities suitable for all ages.
Try a variety of dishes to get a full taste of the festival’s offerings.
Engage with the performers and artists to experience the full festive atmosphere.
Dress comfortably and stay hydrated, especially if you plan to stay late into the night.
Why Visit the Ramadan Street Food Festival Dubai?
Dubai is known for its luxury dining, but this festival offers a chance to experience the city’s authentic street food culture. It celebrates community, tradition, and the joy of sharing meals during Ramadan.
The festival blends traditional flavors with a lively atmosphere, providing a unique way to experience Ramadan in Dubai beyond typical tourist experiences. Whether you live in Dubai or are visiting, the festival gives a special insight into the city’s multicultural spirit.
How to Get There and What to Explore Nearby
Karama is centrally located and easy to reach by taxi or public transportation. The closest metro stations and bus stops are a short walk from the festival site. Parking is also available nearby for those who drive.
While you are in Karama, you can also explore the local markets and shops selling textiles, souvenirs, electronics, and more. There are many cafes and restaurants nearby if you want to extend your visit.
Stay Updated and Connected
For the latest news and updates about the Ramadan Street Food Festival Dubai, follow Dubai Eats on Instagram. They share highlights, featured dishes, and live event coverage to keep you informed and inspired.
Final Thoughts
The Ramadan Street Food Festival Dubai is a wonderful celebration of food, culture, and community during Ramadan. With its authentic dishes, entertaining shows, and welcoming environment, it offers a memorable experience for everyone.
From 19 February to 18 March, head to Sheikh Hamdan Colony in Karama to enjoy the festival and create special moments with family and friends.
If you want to discover new flavors and experience Ramadan in an authentic way, this festival is the perfect place to be.
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