The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), UAE, has revealed a month-long cultural programme for Ramadan 2025, offering residents and visitors an experience to delve into the traditions, spirit, and creativity of the holy month.
Heritage and Culinary Experiences
The programme kicks off with a series of heritage-focused events, including Ramadan’s Harees at Al Ain Oasis, where visitors can partake in the tradition of preparing and sharing the beloved Emirati dish Harees every Friday. As part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage, this dish plays an important role in UAE culture, and attendees can explore its cultural significance and learn the methods of preparation.
In the lead-up to Suhoor, Before Suhoor at Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa will offer an interactive cultural experience every weekend until the 15th March. The event will showcase a rich blend of Emirati, Syrian, Pakistani, and Iraqi music, dance, and traditional games such as chess and Carrom.
At Al Jahili Fort, the Traditional Games Championships will run from 12th to 15th March, bringing Emirati heritage to life with a series of individual and group games, public challenges, and educational workshops, culminating in prizes for the competition winners. Meanwhile, Ramadan at Al Dhafra Fort on 11th and 12th March will offer community gatherings, panel discussions, children’s activities, and a contest focusing on traditional Emirati attire.
For a deeper dive into UAE heritage, Ramadan Nights at Heritage Village from 14th to 21st March will feature interactive entertainment, workshops, and culinary experiences that immerse visitors in the nation’s rich cultural traditions.
Community and Cultural Gatherings
The cultural programme also includes several community-focused events aimed at building connections and fostering unity. Ramadan at Al Hosn (8th – 23rd March) will transport visitors to Abu Dhabi’s past with Majalis Ramadan gatherings, retail stalls, workshops, and family-friendly entertainment suitable for all ages.
A special event at the Cultural Foundation on 8th March will commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Salon Al Multaqa literary platform, featuring a discussion with renowned authors Nujoom Al-Ghanem and Asma Al-Mutawa. On 15th March, the Prophetic Etiquette discussion at Zayed Central Library will explore the values of etiquette derived from the Prophet’s biography, presented by author Dr. Ghosna Al-Amri in a session exclusive to women.
Another fascinating discussion, The Language of the Qur’an and Early Arab Beliefs, will be held on 20th March at the Cultural Foundation. Dr. Nizar Qublan and Reem Al-Kamali will delve into the linguistic and philosophical aspects of the Qur’an, offering new perspectives on its impact.
Interactive Workshops and Artistic Experiences
For those seeking creative outlets, the programme features a host of artistic workshops and interactive experiences. From 15th to 25th March, Ramadan Arcade at Manarat Al Saadiyat will offer a vibrant space for arcade and board games, live performances, art installations, and creative workshops, making it a perfect spot for social interaction and fun.
A special poetry session, Al Ain in the Memory of its People on 14th March at ZOI Café, will celebrate World Poetry Day with prominent poets Mohammed Al-Neyadi, Al-Hath Al-Kuwaiti, and Sheikha Al-Jaberi. For those interested in exploring the intersection of Islamic thought and global culture, Ramadan Islamic Philosophy Talks at Louvre Abu Dhabi on 8th and 15th March will provide insightful discussions on the influence of Islamic philosophy, alongside traditional Hakawati storytelling performances.
In addition, author Dr. Omar Al Amiri will lead a literary session at MAKTABA on 13th March, reflecting on his journey as a writer and discussing the vital role reading has played in shaping his career as a novelist and short story author.
Creative Workshops by Leading Artists
The Ramadan programme also includes a range of creative workshops led by esteemed artists. The Suhour wa Fanoon series, hosted by Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, invites participants to engage in self-expression and artistic exploration. Artist Khalid Al Banna will lead a Monoprinting Workshop on 13th March, where participants can experiment with colour layering and texture to create unique prints.
On 18th March, calligraphy artist Diaa Allam will guide a workshop on Abstract Arabic Calligraphy, offering an opportunity to explore expressive lettering styles. Another exciting workshop on Abstract Architectural Drawing will be held on 20th March, led by artist Asma Belhamar. This session will explore the relationship between space and form, blending structured techniques with freehand artistic expression.
