As Ramadan 2026 unfolds, a rising development amongst residents of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is capturing consideration: iftar hikes or organised group treks within the Hajar Mountains and desert landscapes the place folks break their quick collectively in nature’s calm, removed from metropolis life. What started as casual outings has developed right into a vibrant seasonal ritual that blends non secular reflection, group bonding and wholesome outside exercise in opposition to beautiful backdrops because the solar units.
From UAE metropolis streets to mountain trails: A brand new Ramadan iftar climbing custom
Throughout the UAE, climbing teams are more and more scheduling mountain treks timed round iftar (sundown), when fasting Muslims break their quick with dates, water and lightweight meals after a day of fasting. Hikers collect with backpacks as a substitute of eating tables an hour earlier than sundown, reaching trails or scenic vantage factors by the decision to prayer and having fun with a easy, shared second earlier than persevering with their journey.Organised teams like UAE Adventures Crew and Outdoorzy Adventures have been operating these experiences for a number of years, significantly in cooler winter months main into Ramadan when outside temperatures are friendlier for bodily exercise. These outings prioritise accessibility, providing easy-to-moderate hikes in locations like Fossil Rock in Mleiha and different elevated trails the place panoramic views enrich the fast-breaking second.
Ramadan 2026 non secular connection meets outside wellness
In line with some UAE Muslims, there’s something uniquely significant about breaking the quick outdoor, away from on a regular basis distractions and digital units. The simplicity of sharing dates and water with fellow hikers at sundown, adopted by prayers in nature, resonates deeply with many. As one group founder put it, iftar hikes supply “a uncommon pause”, a second to really feel related to each group and the non secular spirit of Ramadan.Many journeys proceed after the preliminary breaking of the quick: teams pause for Maghrib prayer, then hike for a number of extra hours beneath the night time sky and typically end the night with suhoor barbecues or meals overlooking the mountains. The emphasis, hikers clarify, shouldn’t be on strenuous train however on shared expertise, contemplation and fellowship, aligning outside journey with the values of generosity and togetherness that outline Ramadan.
Ramadan Hikes: Religious Quick-Breaking or Dangerous Desert Expeditions within the UAE?
Not like typical organised sports activities or health traits, iftar hikes are rooted in cultural adaptation and group spirit. They’re scheduled with consideration for fasting individuals, usually beginning after taraweeh prayers so there’s ample time to digest iftar earlier than bodily exertion and so they are usually small, capped at 25–30 folks for security, particularly when climbing after darkish.Teams often embrace each fasting and non-fasting individuals, with organisers conscious to respect the wants of these observing the quick, for instance, non-fasting hikers chorus from consuming water in entrance of others through the hike.
Why the Ramadan iftar climbing development is rising within the UAE
A number of components are serving to gasoline the recognition of iftar hikes throughout Ramadan –
Organisers of iftar hikes emphasise security, particularly since many hikes proceed after darkish. Small group sizes, usually not more than 25 to 30 individuals, assist be certain that leaders can handle the danger of night time climbing in rugged terrain. Contributors are additionally briefed on security protocols and path circumstances forward of time.Given the various terrain of the UAE’s Hajar Mountains together with peaks like Jebel Al Mebrah and Jabal Qada’ah in Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah, hikers are suggested to come back ready with applicable gear, flashlights or headlamps, and a plan for hydration as soon as iftar is formally known as.
Are UAE’s Ramadan Iftar Hikes the New Religious Escape?
Iftar hikes are a part of a broader social shift within the UAE throughout Ramadan the place residents embrace outside and community-focused actions. For instance, many individuals select to train after iftar by jogging, taking part in soccer or visiting public areas, turning late evenings right into a hub for wellness and social connection. Likewise, group programmes like Umm Al Emarat Park’s Ramadan Nights occasions showcase how outside gatherings are actually an integral a part of the UAE’s Ramadan expertise, combining cultural celebration with family-friendly engagement beneath the night time sky.In 2026, iftar hikes have emerged as a symbolic expression of how folks within the UAE are reimagining Ramadan traditions. They provide a mix of reflection, health, group spirit and journey that enhances the core values of the holy month. Removed from being merely a health fad, these hikes replicate a deeper need to attach with nature, share significant moments and embrace the non secular essence of Ramadan with one sundown, one path, one shared meal at a time.
