Karama's Vibrant Ramadan Street Food Festival

Ramadan 2026: Karama Street's Gastronomic Festival with 100 Restaurants and Dh5 Dishes

The special atmosphere of Ramadan evenings once again fills the streets of Karama this year, where the area of Sheikh Hamdan Colony turns into a real outdoor community kitchen for a month. When the cannon sounds to mark the end of the fast, the air is filled with the smell of sizzling kebabs, the spicy aroma of freshly made samosas, and the noise of families and friends chatting. Returning for the fourth time, the Ramadan Street Food Festival in 2026 promises a bigger, richer, and more diverse experience than ever.

The festival awaits visitors between February 19 and March 18, at two main venues: the Flavour Lane and the Culinary Crossroads, located around the Karama Park area. The two zones are connected by a walkable gastro trail, allowing visitors to embark on a true culinary journey as they move from one stand to another.

A New Level of Community Experience

One of the key elements of the event is the system of community iftars. This year, a total of 18 large communal dinners will be organized, where up to 150 people can sit together at picnic tables. These gatherings operate on a first-come, first-served basis, allowing anyone to join who wants to experience the true community spirit of Ramadan.

On Fridays, a special long-table dinner is also held, providing space not only for shared meals but also for conversations, connections, and cultural dialogue. These occasions are not just gastronomic events but live manifestations of Ramadan's message: sharing, hospitality, and openness.

One Hundred Restaurants, Affordable Prices

The festival sees participation from around 100 restaurants and street vendors. The offer is remarkably wide: biryani, tapioca with beef, pickled mango, fresh fruit juices, traditional sweets, and plentiful Sulaimani tea await visitors. One of the most attractive elements is that dishes are available from Dh5, making the event truly accessible to everyone.

Entry is free, further strengthening the festival's openness. It is not about luxury gastronomy but an authentic, direct street experience, where the emphasis is on community and flavors. Organizers expect more than 70,000 visitors, showing just how significant the festival has become in the city's life.

Two Phases, Increasing Excitement

The festival takes place in two distinct phases. Between February 19 and 28, decorated restaurants and stands set the foundation, with a cozy, family-like atmosphere. However, from March 1, the carnival phase kicks off with full force, enriching the experience with spectacular programs and evening performances.

The main stage is located within Karama Park, where performances are held on weekdays from 9:15 PM to 10:30 PM, and on weekends until 11:00 PM. Storytelling, live music, children's programs, and stage performances alternate several times a day. The goal is to create a family-friendly yet vibrant atmosphere that provides entertainment in the evening hours after the fast.

Wandering Performances and Carnival Zone

From March 1, traditional craftsmen wander the festival area every evening from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Arab calligraphy, henna artistry, and live caricature-making await those interested, who can take home personalized souvenirs. The programs are not only entertaining but also offer cultural insights.

In the evening hours, LED stilt performers, tanoura dancers, jugglers, and various costumed characters appear among the crowd, keeping the festival in constant motion. Classic games – such as ring toss or can-knockdown – ensure a light-hearted, family-friendly atmosphere in the Carnival Zone.

Ramadan in Dubai: Citywide Unity

The Ramadan Street Food Festival is integrally linked to the broader Ramadan program series, which is part of the 'Ramadan in Dubai' initiative. During this time, the city organizes events within a unified cultural and community framework that focuses on respecting traditions and strengthening community experiences.

As part of the program series, thematic events are organized across several locations, including the Dubai Festival City Mall with the so-called Ramadan by the Bay event, as well as the Hai Ramadan event held at Expo City Dubai. All these contribute to the city fully reflecting the spirit of Ramadan.

Common Tables, Shared Experiences

What makes the Karama festival special is that it transforms street gastronomy into a community experience. Here, one doesn't just buy food but becomes part of a larger story. At the long tables, strangers sit next to each other, sharing food and stories. Children play, adults chat, and in the background, music and laughter can be heard.

The message of Ramadan becomes tangible here: to pause, be together, and appreciate the moment. The Ramadan Street Food Festival brings this experience closer to everyone, with affordable prices, open spaces, and a genuine community atmosphere.

In 2026, Karama proves once again that Ramadan is not just a religious period but also a cultural and community celebration. Those who visit not only satiate themselves but also recharge – with flavors, experiences, and human connections.