Enjoy Expo City Dubai’s ‘Hai Ramadan’ offerings

“Hai Ramadan”, which will commence soon at Expo City Dubai, aims to bring the community together, as it hosts an engaging celebration of the Holy Month with food, festivities, and activities.

The festivities – an experiential interpretation of ‘hai’, an Arabic word with a dual meaning of “neighbourhood” and “welcome” – will run for more than 50 days, beginning on March 3, the weekend prior to the UAE’s traditional celebration of Haq Al Laila, in preparation for the start of Ramadan two weeks later.

Amna Abulhoul, executive creative director – Expo City Dubai, said, “Just as Expo 2020 Dubai brought the world together once before, Expo City Dubai’s ‘Hai Ramadan’ will bring together different communities from all over during the Holy Month.

“We are excited that our visitors will be able to rejoice in some of the world’s most famous and well-known Ramadan traditions in a single destination.”

Hai Ramadan highlights

Hai Ramadan will take visitors on a cultural journey where they can share unique experiences from across the Islamic world.

From regional cuisine to international gastronomy and street food, visitors will also have the chance to enjoy an array of food and beverages, as they break their fast and share a meal with family and friends during Ramadan.

As the Holy Month draws near, join us for a one of a kind experience at Expo City Dubai. Just as Expo 2020 Dubai brought the world together before, ‘Hai Ramadan’ will take us on an unforgettable journey once again. pic.twitter.com/Fo9RroaDs1

— ExpoCityDubai (@ExpoCityDubai) February 15, 2023

Worshippers will have access to a dedicated mosque on site for all prayers, including Isha and the later Taraweeh and Tahajjud prayers. After the Taraweeh prayer, storytellers will evoke the ancient Arab art of Hakawati – narrating folktales and stories of adventure, culture, religion and morality.

Misaharati – classic Ramadan figures who would wake up their communities with drumming and singing, traditionally before dawn, to drink water and partake in Suhoor – will celebrate the experience of this age-old tradition throughout the day.

Al Wasl Plaza will offer a family-friendly theatrical show by Expo 2020 Dubai’s official mascots, Rashid and Latifa, and children of all ages are welcome to join workshops and games to learn about elements of Emirati culture and the values of Ramadan, such as kindness, generosity, and compassion.

Expo City Dubai will hold sports tournaments for adults with a dedicated zone that will feature games, fitness and wellness activations for people of all activity levels.

There will also be a fun night market with home-grown vendors offering perfumes, gifts, and bespoke clothing, and a corporate Iftar option will be on offer.

The event will take place from 4pm to 10am in the run-up to Ramadan, and from 5pm to 2am during Ramadan.

Entry to Hai Ramadan, including the Al Wasl show and sports activities, is free, with charges for some workshops and games.

A full schedule of events will be published shortly.

New attractions at the venue

In other news, earlier this month, Expo City Dubai unveiled three new attractions.

Called Stories of Nations, the exhibitions pay tribute to the nations and international organisations that propelled Expo City’s predecessor, Expo 2020 Dubai to success.

Read: Expo City Dubai unveils new attractions for visitors

The exhibitions are spread across the opportunity, mobility and sustainability districts.

Visitors can explore memorabilia and artefacts including sculptures, musical instruments, textiles, clothing and digital assets, as well as discover how countries and international organisations contributed to the theme of each district.

Expo City Dubai officially opened to the public on October 1 last year.

The site will also host the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP28) in November.

Read: UAE to host COP28 summit at Expo City Dubai