Sample a starlit Ramadan feast at Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection
A feast for the senses
From the moment you arrive, the ambiance sets the tone, rows of fairy lights, soft traditional music, and the inviting aroma of slow-cooked meats and freshly baked bread. Live cooking stations add an interactive element, allowing guests to watch chefs in action as they prepare fresh dishes on the spot.
The appetiser selection is a perfect mix of hot and cold bites. Crisp fattoush, golden kibba akras, and fresh Greek and Nicoise salads offer a refreshing start before the real indulgence begins.
An authentic culinary journey
The main course lineup is a masterclass in Arabian flavours. The malfouf mahshi, a delicately rolled cabbage stuffed with seasoned rice and meat, is packed with rich spices and slow-cooked to perfection. The kibbeh blaban, simmered in a creamy yogurt sauce, is a comforting dish that pairs beautifully with fragrant rice. And, of course, no Ramadan table is complete without ouzi; tender, slow-roasted lamb served on a bed of spiced rice, with crispy nuts adding just the right amount of crunch.
For drinks, the selection features traditional Ramadan favourites like jallab and kamar al dein, both of which offer a sweet and refreshing contrast to the meal's bold flavours.
A sweet ending under the stars
The dessert station is a haven for those with a sweet tooth. From crispy, syrupy baklawa to soft, cheese-filled kunafa and delicate katayef, each bite is a nod to classic Middle Eastern sweets. Served fresh and warm, these desserts are the perfect way to end the meal on a high note.
An experience worth indulging in
At Dh230 on weekdays and Dh190 on weekends, this iftar is a well-rounded experience that balances quality, ambiance, and tradition. Whether you're gathering with family, reconnecting with friends, or looking for an immersive Ramadan night out, the Grand Starlit Iftar at Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection is an excellent choice.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


What's On
5 hours ago
- What's On
Staycation review: The Residence at One&Only Royal Mirage, revamped
An icon of Dubai hospitality of more than two decades, the One&Only Royal Mirage is the kind of city getaway that does city getaways right. This weekend, we're staying at the recently-refurbished Residence. The Setting Designed to emulate traditional Arabian architecture, the resort is an imposing, intricate facade, coloured in the typical stone with high ceilings, smooth arches, grand chandeliers, antique furniture, oriental furnishings and a kind of old-world charm. 3 of 12 Our area of focus, The Residence, is just one of three separate properties enclosed in the One&Only Royal Mirage compound – a more intimate, settled in and luxurious escape with winding hallways, shiny tiled floors and wooden accents found in traditional Arabian homes. Massive, aquamarine pools and a stretch of private beach add a touch of the exclusivity to the resort. Think desert chic, elevated. The Room Recently, the 48 rooms and suites of the Residence underwent a meticulous renovation, revealing a fresh new look that blends timeless Arabian design elements with contemporary touches. Our room, the Junior Suite, is located on the ground floor of The Residences, with a shaded patio that overlooks the gorgeous gardens and the pool. The room itself is expansive, divided into a sitting area and a bedroom. Wooden fittings, low-hanging lanterns and lattice partitions give the room an Arabian feel, while large mirrors, plush carpeting, curated coffee table books and the airy bathroom add a modern touch. It truly feels like a residence, somehow more boutique and personal. The Food & Drink The first night, we dined at Tagine, the resident Moroccan restaurant draped in cultural and heritage elements. The staff spoil us with keen, attentive service and we sample some authentic Morrocan favourites like the namesake tagine, a selection of dips, pastries and starters, couscous and tender meat – everything packed with flavour and varied textures. The next day we have lunch at The Beach Bar & Grill by Mauro Colagreco, a charming, nautical-themed establishment perched by the beach. Here, we sample delicious seafood cooked with bright, colourful ingredients and South American flair. Portions at both the restaurants are hearty and filling. The Activities During our stay, we're invited to join the Moonlight night swim at the adults-only Janoub Pool, located in The Palace. The night is crisp and pleasant, and we relax in the infinity pool followed by a quick dinner on the loungers of some of the bar bites – warm empanadas, a meaty burger and some drinks. The rest of the night is spent lounging on the sun beds, breathing in the nighttime air and the calm of our surroundings. We also have a couples massage at The Spa, a quiet sanctuary laid further and further inward for complete disconnect – a much-needed reset – and explore Sauce, the in-house vacation store. Besides this, The Residence does have a fitness centre with a trainer, a pool, access to the beach and The Library Bar for moody evenings. The Experience Right in the heart of Dubai Media City, a packed, bustling, corporate area, The Residence, and the resort as a whole, whisks you away to a bubble elsewhere, where the noise of the traffic, the haze of the crane lights and the catacomb of the roads is far removed. If you were dropped into the centre of the massive, sprawling property, you would never guess what lies beyond the rolling grounds of swaying date trees and the boundaries. Think long relaxing days spent by pool, glamorous dinner dates by night and total escapism. What to Pack Bathing suits for the pool, flowy glam for evenings and airy linens for daytime. What's On the Bill From Dhs900 per night – there is also the Summer Escapes offer, exclusive to this season. Enjoy 15% savings on longer stays, daily waterpark access, and evening drinks for guests at The Palace. Guests at The Residence can indulge in a 60-minute spa treatment and daily afternoon tea, while families at Arabian Court benefit from kids staying and dining free. Minimum stay of 2 nights. The Final Say What's On Verdict: The Residence at One&Only Royal Mirage is a city sanctuary done right. The Deets Location: Dubai Media City, Dubai Check-in/Check-out: 3pm/12pm Contact: (04) 399 9999 | @ooroyalmirage Booking tip: Grab the staycation offer for this season before it ends. Images: Supplied


What's On
2 days ago
- What's On
11 iconic brunches in Dubai worth the hype
Brunches in Dubai are a weekend ritual and nowhere does it quite like this city. Whether you're looking for a high-energy party with DJs and dancing, a refined culinary journey with five-star flair, or a relaxed afternoon with scenic views and top-tier bites, Dubai's brunch scene has something for every palate and mood. From beachfront fiestas and Peruvian powerhouses to jungle-themed escapes and sophisticated rooftop affairs, these 11 iconic brunches capture the very best of what Dubai has to offer. Hungry yet? Let's dig in… Swipe through the gallery 3 of 12 Opa Dubai A Greek island escape, right in the city. If you've ever wanted to brunch like a Greek god or goddess complete with traditional dances, signature beverages, and some very satisfying plate-smashing, Opa Dubai is the one. Held just once a month, this lively experience is set in a bougain villaea-draped, white-and-blue space inside Fairmont Dubai that transports you straight to the islands. Expect fantastic live entertainment, a warm Mediterranean vibe, and an afternoon that's equal parts festive and fabulous. Location: Fairmont Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road Date: Next event is on Friday, 23 August Timings: 12pm to 4pm Packages: From Dhs355 Contact: 04 357 0557 @opadubai Candypants at Akira Back Where high energy meets haute cuisine. A staple brunches in Dubai scene, Candypants at Akira Back delivers a Saturday like no other. Perched in W Dubai The Palm, this party brunch blends inventive Japanese cuisine with Korean flair and global influences. Expect panoramic views of Palm Jumeirah, bold cocktails, and that signature Candypants buzz, loud, unapologetic, and seriously fun. It's a full-sensory brunch that balances top-tier dining with an electric party atmosphere. Location: Akira Back, W Dubai, The Palm Times: Saturdays, 1pm to 4:30pm Packages: From Dhs425 Contact: 04 245 5533 @candypantsdxb Bubbalicious at The Westin The classic that never misses. Whether you're new to Dubai or a brunching pro, Bubbalicious at The Westin is a rite of passage. Held at the stunning beachfront resort, this iconic brunch sees three restaurants join forces to serve up a feast of global flavours, live cooking stations, flowing drinks, and nonstop entertainment. It's high-energy yet family-friendly, luxurious yet approachable, a brunch that delivers every time and remains one of the city's most beloved weekend staples. Location: The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina Times: Saturdays, 1pm to 4pm Packages: Packages from Dhs475 and kids aged 6 to 12 Dhs300 Contact: 04 511 7373 @westindubai Hutong A regal chinese brunch experience. Step into the world of Qing dynasty decadence at Hutong's Imperial Brunch in DIFC. Inspired by the legendary Manchu-Han Imperial Feast, this refined brunch begins with an unlimited spread of starters and handcrafted dim sum, followed by a specially curated main course of your choice. End on a sweet note with an elegantly plated sharing dessert. With its sophisticated ambiance and elevated flavours, this is a brunch that's truly fit for royalty. Location: DIFC, Dubai Times: Saturdays, 12:30pm to 3:30pm Packages: From Dhs288 Contact: 04 220 0868 @hutongdubai Naughty Noodles at Maiden Shanghai Dubai's most outrageous arty brunch. FIVE Palm Jumeirah's Naughty Noodles Brunch at Maiden Shanghai is more than just a meal, it's a full-throttle experience. Known globally for its wild energy and award-winning flair, this brunch pairs gourmet Chinese dishes with non-stop entertainment, from live performers to pumping DJ sets. The excitement doesn't stop, because at 4:30, guests head straight to the rooftop for the afterparty, with skyline views and vibes that last till sunset. Bold, loud, and unapologetically fun, this is brunch, FIVE style. Location: Maiden Shanghai, FIVE Palm Jumeirah Timings: Saturdays: Brunch: 1pm to 4:30pm and afterparty: 4:30pm to 7pm Contact: @naughtynoodles_brunch Viva Brasilia at Mama Zonia Carnival vibes with a Peruvian twist. Turn up the energy at Mama Zonia's Viva Brasilia Brunch, a multi-award-winning party that fuses the rhythm of Rio with the flavours of Peru. Brought to life by Secret Parties, this high-octane brunch offers vibrant live samba performances, curated beats, and immersive entertainment, all within the lush, jungle-themed interiors of Pier 7. With a summer offer that extends the fun until 5:30pm, it's the perfect excuse to keep the drinks flowing and the vibes high. Location: Mama Zonia, Pier 7, Dubai Marina Timings: Saturdays, 1pm to 5:30pm (extended summer hours) Contact: 04 240 4747 @mamazoniadubai Al Qasr A refined feast with iconic flair. A true Dubai institution, the Al Qasr brunch at Madinat Jumeirah is back. This elegant affair caters to both discerning foodies and families alike, with live cooking stations dishing out global favourites in style. From a luxe seafood spread and artisanal cheese selection to indulgent mains like beef Wellington, truffle mac and cheese, dim sum, and more, it's a brunch that celebrates variety and quality. Add in premium drinks, live music, and an optional after-party, and you've got one of the city's most polished weekend experiences. Location: Jumeirah Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah Times: Saturdays, 1pm to 4pm (after-party to follow) Contact: 800 323 232 @alqasrbrunch City Social Elevated dining with a side of skyline views. For a brunch that puts exceptional food front and centre, City Social by Jason Atherton delivers a masterclass in refined simplicity. Set high in Grosvenor House Dubai, this elegant Saturday spot offers perfectly executed classics like beef tartare, smoked burrata, grilled prawns, and confit lamb shoulder. Ideal for group gatherings, the bubbly package comes complimentary for parties of six or more, just one more reason to make it a social affair in every sense of the word. Location: City Social, Grosvenor House Dubai Times: Saturdays, 12:30pm to 4pm Packages: From Dhs395 Contact: 04 402 2222 @citysocial_dubai COYA A Peruvian powerhouse with party energy. COYA's Saturday brunch is where vibrant Peruvian flavours meet sophisticated party vibes. Held at the stylish Four Seasons Resort, this long-standing favourite brings the energy with upbeat music, flowing premium drinks, and an endless parade of signature dishes like ceviche, anticuchos, hearty clay pot mains, and those irresistible churros. It's lively yet refined, bold yet elegant. And with over eight years at the top of Dubai's dining game, it's no wonder this grown-up fiesta remains a brunch icon. Location: COYA, Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach Times Saturdays, afternoon Contact: 04 316 9600 @coyadubai Barfly by Buddha-Bar A sunset brunch with serious style. Swap daytime dining for something a little more seductive with Barfly by Buddha-Bar's Saturday evening brunch. Set against sweeping views of The Palm, this sleek, candlelit experience offers pan-Asian favourites like short rib bao buns, paired with premium drinks and sultry live entertainment. With its glamorous setting and after-dark energy, Barfly is perfect for those who like their brunch with a side of nightlife. Location: Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jumeirah Times: Saturdays, 7pm to 11pm Packages: From Dhs365 Contact: 04 230 0000 @barflydubai Amazónico A jungle brunch with rhythm and flair. Tropical vibes, Latin flavours, and non-stop rhythm, Amazónico's Saturday brunch in DIFC is an immersive escape into the heart of the jungle. Set across three lushly designed floors, this brunch pairs premium Latin American dishes with vibrant live performances from a percussionist and trumpeter, all soundtracked by a DJ spinning Latin-infused beats from 2pm. Expect sushi starters, caramelised pineapple, baby chicken, and bold cocktails in a brunch that's as much about the music as it is the meal. Location: Amazónico, DIFC Timings: Saturdays, 12pm to 4pm Packages: From Dhs595 Contact: 04 571 3999 @amazonico_dubai Looking for more brunches in Dubai? We've rounded up 105 brunches across the city Images: Instagram, Secret Party and Websites


Tourism Breaking News
2 days ago
- Tourism Breaking News
Ajman Department of Tourism Development signs cooperation agreement with German Company Schauinsland-Reisen to boost Emirate's appeal in European market
Post Views: 52 As part of its ambitious strategy to enhance its position on the global tourism map, the Ajman Department of Tourism Development has signed a Cooperation Agreement with Schauinsland-Reisen, one of the leading travel and tourism companies in Germany and Europe. This strategic partnership aims to strengthen Ajman's tourism promotion efforts in the European market through integrated marketing and promotional campaigns, including digital advertising, event organisation, and tailored media programs. The collaboration will also involve the development of innovative travel packages that meet the preferences of European tourists. The initiative is expected to attract more European visitors to Ajman and introduce them to the Emirate's diverse tourism offerings, which combine rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and a modern hospitality infrastructure. Commenting on the agreement, His Excellency Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi said: 'This step reflects our unwavering commitment to implementing a comprehensive strategy that enhances Ajman's competitiveness on the global tourism stage and targets new, high-potential markets. Partnering with a reputable company like Schauinsland is a real asset, given their extensive experience and wide-reaching network in the European market, which will help us reach targeted tourism segments.' Mr. Eken also praised Ajman's tourism potential, stating: 'We are delighted to be part of this valuable cooperation. We believe this partnership will open new doors for German and European tourists to discover a unique destination like Ajman, which blends authenticity with modernity and offers warm Arabian hospitality.' This agreement comes as part of a series of initiatives launched by the Ajman Department of Tourism Development this year, including the establishment of a new representative office in the Federal Republic of Germany. This office was unveiled during the department's participation in ITB Berlin 2025, one of the world's leading tourism exhibitions. The new office aims to strengthen connections with international partners, explore tourism and economic cooperation opportunities, and coordinate promotional campaigns more effectively and directly with targeted markets. Ajman has witnessed significant growth in visitor numbers in recent years, driven by continuous investment in the development of tourism infrastructure, provision of diverse accommodation options, and expansion of cultural, environmental, and sports programs that enrich visitors' experience. The Cooperation Agreement with Schauinsland represents a major step forward in building long-term strategic partnerships, aligned with the Emirate's broader economic vision and its commitment to achieving sustainable development goals. The agreement was signed by His Excellency Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi, Director General of the Ajman Department of Tourism Development and Adnan Eken, Head of Cooperation and Sponsorship in Schauinsland, in an official ceremony attended by a number of officials from both sides, along with regional and international tourism stakeholders.