Ramadan 2025 in Dubai: Healthy Foods to Eat During Suhoor & Iftar

Ramadan 2025 is set to be one of the most vibrant and special times of the year in Dubai. With its beautifully lit mosques, bustling Ramadan tents, and the spirit of community and charity, this holy month brings families and friends together like no other occasion. In Dubai, the city truly comes alive during Ramadan, with a warm atmosphere in homes, restaurants, and shopping malls.

While Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, it's also important to take care of your health during fasting. Choosing nutritious foods for Suhoor and Iftar will ensure you maintain your energy levels throughout the day and stay healthy during this sacred month.

Let’s explore some of the best foods to eat during Suhoor and Iftar, with a focus on keeping your meals both healthy and satisfying.

Why Suhoor and Iftar Are Important

Suhoor and Iftar are not just meals—they are key moments in the daily cycle of fasting. Suhoor, the pre-dawn meal, provides you with the energy and hydration required to sustain your fast. Iftar, the meal to break the fast, replenishes your body and helps you recover after a day of abstaining from food and water.

In Dubai’s warm climate, it’s even more essential to choose foods that hydrate, nourish, and energize you. Here's how to plan your meals smartly this Ramadan.

Healthy Foods to Eat During Suhoor

Start your day of fasting with nourishing meals that provide lasting energy and hydration. Choosing the right foods for Suhoor is essential to keep you energized throughout the long fasting hours. From protein-packed dishes to fiber-rich fruits and hydrating drinks, here are some of the best healthy options to include in your Suhoor for Ramadan 2025 in Dubai.

1. Peanut Butter & Banana Sandwiches

A classic for a reason, peanut butter paired with banana slices on whole grain bread is a perfect choice for Suhoor.

• Why it works: Peanut butter provides healthy fats and protein, while bananas give you potassium and slow-releasing carbohydrates for sustained energy.
• Tip: Use multigrain or oat bread for added fiber.

2. Egg Dishes with a Twist

Eggs are versatile and protein-packed.

• Try: Shakshuka (poached eggs in tomato sauce) or scrambled eggs with sautéed spinach.
• Pair with: Brown bread or whole-wheat chapati.
• Why it works: Eggs keep you full for longer and support muscle health during fasting.

3. Oatmeal Bowls with Fresh Additions

Oatmeal is rich in fiber and slow-digesting carbohydrates.

• Make it interesting: Add dates, honey, nuts, chia seeds, and milk.
• Local twist: Add a spoon of laban (fermented yogurt drink popular in Dubai) on the side to help digestion.

4. Fresh Fruits & Vegetables

Fresh fruits and veggies are full of fiber, water, and essential vitamins.

• Top picks: Watermelon, cucumber, oranges, and berries.
• Pro tip: Blend fruits into a smoothie with Greek yogurt for a refreshing Suhoor drink.

5. Nuts and Seeds

Your nutrient-packed companions for Ramadan.

• Good choices: Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds.
• Why it works: They provide sustained energy and healthy fats.
• Hydration tip: Enjoy them with warm milk or laban.

6. Hydration Plan for Suhoor

• Drink plenty of water.
• Avoid: Caffeinated drinks (tea or coffee) as they can cause dehydration.
• Recommended: Herbal teas like chamomile or mint, served warm.

Healthy Foods to Eat During Iftar

After a day of fasting, Iftar is the perfect time to refuel your body with wholesome, balanced meals. Breaking your fast with nutritious foods helps restore energy and maintain overall well-being. From traditional dates and hydrating drinks to fresh salads, light snacks, and balanced main courses, here are some of the healthiest and most satisfying foods to enjoy during Iftar in Dubai.

1. Break Your Fast with Dates and Water

A timeless tradition across Muslim cultures, including the UAE.

• Why it works: Dates provide natural sugars that quickly raise blood glucose after fasting.
• Pair with: A glass of water or laban.

2. Refreshing Hydration Drinks

After a whole day of fasting in Dubai’s warm climate, hydration is key.

• Popular choices in Dubai: Jallab (grape molasses drink), tamarind juice, rose milk, or laban.

3. Fruits and Fresh Salads

Adding fruits and salads to your Iftar is essential.

• Good fruits to include: Papaya, mangoes, apples, pomegranate.
• Why: Fruits are rich in electrolytes and fiber, perfect for post-fast digestion.
• Veggie salad idea: Cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, olive oil dressing.

4. Veggie-Based Snacks

Looking for healthier Iftar starters?

• Options: Veggie nuggets, grilled halloumi, or hummus with whole-grain pita.
• Why it works: Light on calories, rich in flavor, and packed with nutrients.

5. Balanced Main Courses

Opt for meals that include:

• Lean protein (grilled chicken, fish, or lentils)
• Whole grains (brown rice, quinoa)
• Steamed or grilled vegetables

6. Avoiding Fried Foods & Excessive Sugars

It’s tempting to indulge, but moderation is key.

• Alternative to fried: Baked or grilled samosas.
• Dessert tip: Choose fruit-based desserts like fruit chaat or baked apples with honey.

7. Creative Iftar Ideas Popular in Dubai

• Falafel & hummus platters with pita bread.
• Chicken or lamb kebabs grilled with herbs and spices.
• Stuffed vine leaves (warak enab) for a Mediterranean touch.
• Biryani variants for those wanting traditional flavors with moderation.

Traditional Emirati Dishes to Try (in Moderation)

Dubai’s local cuisine offers some delightful dishes you can enjoy during Ramadan.

• Harees: Cracked wheat with chicken or lamb.
• Machboos: Spiced rice with meat or fish.
• Balaleet: Sweet vermicelli with saffron and cardamom.
• Tharid: Bread soaked in meat stew.
• Tip: Try small portions alongside fresh salads to balance your meal.

Tips to Stay Healthy During Ramadan in Dubai

1. Plan Your Meals

• Don’t overeat at Iftar. Start light and take breaks between courses.
• Balance your Suhoor: Combine complex carbs, protein, and hydration.

2. Stay Active

• Recommended: Light walks after Iftar or join a community yoga class.
• Avoid: Intense exercise before breaking your fast.

3. Sleep Well

Ramadan schedules can affect sleep. Try to take short naps during the day if possible.

4. Eat Mindfully

Focus on nutrient-dense foods rather than processed snacks.

5. Create a Ramadan Routine

Having a structured daily routine during Ramadan can help balance fasting with work, family, spiritual activities, and personal well-being.

• Include: Time for prayers, meal prep, light exercise, reading Quran, and connecting with family.

Giving Back During Ramadan

Ramadan is not only a time for personal reflection but also a beautiful time to help others.

• Initiatives in Dubai: Ramadan Fridges, Beit Al Khair Society, Dubai Charity Association.
• What you can do: Donate meals, volunteer at local mosques, or participate in charity drives.
• Acts of kindness: Offering Iftar meals to delivery workers or joining community kitchens.

Final Thoughts

Ramadan 2025 in Dubai will undoubtedly be full of warmth, family gatherings, spiritual reflection, and community strength. As you observe this holy month, remember that keeping your body healthy through mindful eating is an essential part of maintaining your energy, focus, and devotion.

Enjoy nutritious meals, stay hydrated, share with others, and make this Ramadan a beautiful and fulfilling experience. Take care of your health, cherish your family time, and experience the spiritual joy that Ramadan brings. Wishing you and your family a blessed and healthy Ramadan Kareem.