The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority has revealed details of its “Ramadan Nights” programme, a series of cultural and heritage-focused events celebrating Emirati traditions, values and customs throughout the holy month. The initiative aims to strengthen community bonds and offer residents and visitors alike the opportunity to experience the spirit of Ramadan in a meaningful and engaging setting.
The programme forms part of the “Ramadan in Dubai” campaign under the umbrella of the “Al Wulfa” season, an initiative designed to foster family connections and celebrate local social and cultural occasions. Through these activities, Dubai Culture seeks to preserve the UAE’s rich heritage while reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global city that promotes tolerance, coexistence and respect for diverse cultures.
Interactive experiences at Al Safa Library
A variety of events will take place across Dubai Culture’s cultural and heritage assets. At the outdoor courtyard of Al Safa Art & Design Library, Dubai Public Libraries will host a range of interactive workshops and activities as part of the “Schools of Life” initiative, which focuses on developing cultural and life skills for community members of all ages.
Among the highlights is the “Open Drawing Space,” where visitors can create artwork inspired by the atmosphere of Ramadan. The “Ramadan Reflections Wall” will also provide a space for guests to share their thoughts, feelings and written expressions inspired by the holy month.
Families and children can take part in the “Ramadan Lantern Decoration Wall” workshop, a creative activity inspired by the symbolic Ramadan lantern. Meanwhile, the “Treasure Hunt” adventure invites participants to solve riddles and search for hidden Ramadan symbols throughout the library. A board games corner and traditional majlis setting will further enhance the welcoming atmosphere.
Visitors will also have the chance to explore henna art, Arabic calligraphy, traditional matcha preparation techniques, and the craft of perfume-making and scent blending. The cultural programme includes live musical performances, a hakawati storytelling session, and choral performances inspired by the spirit of Ramadan. In addition, the “Creativity Market” will support local artists, entrepreneurs and small businesses by giving them a platform to showcase their handmade and Ramadan-inspired products.
Heritage-inspired moments at Al Shindagha Museum
At Al Shindagha Museum, the UAE’s largest heritage museum, visitors can enjoy Ramadan experiences inspired by the traditional “Areesh” environment. The museum will host a Ramadan Iftar Majlis featuring live cooking demonstrations led by Emirati chefs, alongside storytelling sessions that highlight the values of generosity and hospitality deeply rooted in Emirati cuisine.
The programme will also feature live demonstrations of palm tree-inspired handicrafts and interactive experiences showcasing traditional crafts and products, underscoring the vital role of the palm tree in daily life and traditional architecture.
A series of poetry evenings and panel discussions will explore the nature of social life in old Dubai, offering narrative reflections that capture the spirit of the place and strengthen community ties.
At Etihad Museum, the film “Mountain Boy” will be screened, followed by a discussion session with director Zainab Shaheen, producer Nancy Paton, writer Michelle Ziolkowski, actor Nasser Al Mesabi, and Saleh Al Mesabi.
A special programme for children
Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children will also present a rich schedule of workshops and interactive activities inspired by Ramadan. Young visitors and their families will have the opportunity to explore Islamic arts, learn henna design, discover musical techniques, and showcase their talents at the “Artists’ Market.” The programme will also include games and traditional food tastings, all within a warm setting that reflects the core values of Al Wulfa: reflection, connection and blessing.
Through this diverse programme, Dubai transforms into a vibrant cultural hub during Ramadan, where heritage, creativity and community spirit come together in celebration of the holy month.
