How Muslim Expats in the UAE Celebrate Ramadan: From Traditional Dishes to Vibrant Bazaars

Food, Drinks & Beverage

How Muslim Expats in the UAE Celebrate Ramadan: From Traditional Dishes to Vibrant Bazaars

Ramadan, the holiest month in Islam, is a time of devotion, reflection, and unity for Muslims worldwide. While each culture has its own unique traditions, the essence of the month remains the same—faith, family, and food. For Muslim expatriates in the UAE, Ramadan serves as an opportunity to stay connected to their roots, celebrating with traditional dishes, community gatherings, and cultural events that bring a sense of home.

From Indonesia to Sudan, expatriates in the UAE recreate their Ramadan customs, offering a glimpse into the diversity of traditions that define this sacred month.

Indonesia: The Takjil Hunt

For Indonesians, Ramadan is synonymous with hunting for Takjil, a tradition known as "War Takjil", where people rush to find quick snacks for iftar.

“The most awaited event during Ramadan is ‘hunting for Takjil’—a rush to find quick snacks for Iftar,” said Cinta Budiarsya, an Indonesian resident in Dubai.

The term "Takjil" means "to hasten" and refers to small dishes traditionally eaten to break the fast. Popular Takjil treats include:

Kolak pisang (banana compote)
Es blewah (melon drink)
Biji salak (sweet potato dumplings)
Es doger (a coconut and milk-based drink)
Gorengan (fried snacks)

The Takjil hunt usually starts around 3 PM, drawing large crowds eager to enjoy these seasonal delights. After iftar, many head to mosques for Taraweeh prayers, while traditional town criers roam the streets at suhoor, calling out "Sahoor, Sahoor!" to wake people for the pre-dawn meal.

Malaysia: The Ramadan Bazaars

For Malaysians, Ramadan bazaars are an integral part of the month’s festivities. These lively markets operate from noon until sunset, selling a variety of iftar meals to residents and visitors alike.

“During Ramadan, many Malaysians maintain their regular working hours, so instead of cooking, they often visit these markets to buy food," explained Redza Jamil, a Malaysian resident in Dubai.

With nearly 100 food stalls, the bustling bazaars offer everything from Malaysian sweets to traditional curries and rice dishes. To bring a piece of home to the UAE, the Malaysian Consulate also organizes an annual Ramadan bazaar, allowing the community to gather and enjoy authentic home-cooked meals.

“It may not be as large as the ones in Malaysia, but at least it’s a piece of home,” Jamil added.

Sudan: The Sweet and Bitter Helomurr

In Sudan, Ramadan preparations begin weeks in advance with the making of Helomurr, a traditional Sudanese drink that is an essential part of iftar.

“Helomurr, or ‘Abri,’ is an essential part of our Ramadan experience,” said Tarteel Ali, a Sudanese resident in Dubai.

The name Helomurr translates to "sweet and bitter," reflecting its unique taste. It is made by fermenting corn, drying it in the sun for two days, and grinding it with natural spices. The result is a syrup that is served cold during iftar, offering a refreshing and flavorful experience.

“Women spend time soaking, drying, and preparing it with love and care. It’s not just about the drink itself — it’s a tradition that brings families together before Ramadan starts,” Tarteel added.

For suhoor, Sudanese families often enjoy Raqaq, a thin, crispy bread similar to cornflakes, soaked in milk for a light yet satisfying meal.

For Sudanese residents in the UAE, Ramadan would not be complete without communal gatherings. In Dubai’s Al-Muzan Tent in Mamzar, the Sudanese community comes together for traditional iftar meals, cultural performances, and live music—keeping the spirit of Sudanese Ramadan alive in the UAE.

“These gatherings are not just about food,” Tarteel said. “They also feature cultural events, live music, and artistic performances, helping us stay connected to our roots while celebrating Ramadan together.”

A Unified Spirit of Ramadan in the UAE

Despite the diversity in traditions, Ramadan remains a time of spiritual reflection, togetherness, and generosity. Across the UAE, Muslim expatriates create a melting pot of cultures, blending their heritage with the local Ramadan spirit—whether through food, prayers, or community events.

The UAE's welcoming and multicultural environment allows people from all backgrounds to come together, making Ramadan not just a time of fasting, but also a celebration of cultural unity.