Today's Edition
ASILA AL BADI (ABU DHABI)
Every night during Ramadan, Abu Dhabi's leisure spots and community hubs begin to glow as families step out into the cool evening air. Pop-up markets bustle to life, children take part in craft activities and games, and food stalls offer a range of traditional delicacies. Across the city, Ramadan vibes blend seamlessly with engaging community activities, creating spaces where togetherness takes centre stage.
The Abu Dhabi City Municipality has rolled out a series of community-focused activations across six neighbourhood locations: Al Rahba Plaza, Shakbout Square, Al Shamkha Plaza, Khalifa Square, MBZ Square, and Al Falah Plaza.
Every evening from 9pm to 2am, these plazas come alive with the municipality's 'Joy of Ramadan' programme, running until March 8. Visitors can explore food stalls serving authentic Ramadan flavours, browse handcrafted and homemade goods by local artisans and families, and take part in games, competitions, and activities designed for all ages.
Elsewhere in the capital, a new market concept is giving back while bringing people together. At Reem Mall, the Ramadan Wish Market - launched in partnership with Make-A-Wish Foundation UAE - invites visitors to shop with purpose.
More than a retail pop-up, the initiative weaves social impact into the Ramadan experience. Each visit contributes to a broader cause, echoing the month's values of compassion and charity. The market showcases a curated selection of local brands offering Ramadan-themed products and handcrafted items, giving small businesses a valuable platform during one of the busiest shopping periods of the year.
Families can also take part in daily children's activities, including creative workshops and hands-on crafts, scheduled from 4pm to 6pm and again from 7pm to 10pm to suit Ramadan routines. On weekends, live entertainment after iftar transforms the space into a lively gathering point for friends and extended families. Through its collaboration with Make-A-Wish Foundation UAE, the market links community engagement with tangible support for children facing critical illnesses - a reminder that even a simple evening out can carry deeper meaning.
Those looking for a place to cap the week can head to Umm Al Emarat Park, which offers its own Ramadan Pop-up Market every Friday and Saturday from 8pm to 1am. Held at the Promenade, the market brings together a selection of small businesses and food vendors in a vibrant, open-air environment. Ramadan-themed entertainment complements the stalls, highlighting local entrepreneurship while giving residents yet another opportunity to connect.
