as Ramadan With 2026 just around the corner, a rising trend among residents of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is gaining attention: iftar hiking, or group hikes organized in the Hajar mountains and desert landscapes, where people break their fast together in the tranquility of nature, away from city life. What began as an informal outing has evolved into a vibrant seasonal ritual that blends spiritual reflection, community connection and healthy outdoor play against the stunning backdrop of sunset.
From UAE city streets to mountain trails: A new Ramadan Eid Hiking Tradition
Across the UAE, trekking groups are increasingly scheduling mountain treks around Eid al-Fitr (sunset), when fasting Muslims break their fast with dates, water and a light meal after a day of fasting. An hour before sunset, hikers gather with backpacks instead of dining tables to reach a trail or scenic spot with prayer and enjoy a simple shared moment before continuing on their adventure.Organized groups such as UAE Adventures Team and Outdoorzy Adventures have been hosting these experiences for years, especially during the cooler winter months before Ramadan, when outdoor temperatures are more suitable for physical activity. These outings prioritize accessibility, offering easy to moderate hikes at places like Mleiha’s Fossil Rock and other elevated trails where panoramic views enrich moments for a quick break.
Ramadan Spiritual Connection Meets Outdoor Wellness 2026
Some Emirati Muslims believe that breaking their fast outdoors, away from daily distractions and electronic devices, has a unique meaning. The simple practice of sharing dates and water with other hikers at sunset and then praying in nature resonates deeply with many people. Iftar walking tours provide, as one group founder puts it, “a rare pause,” a time to feel connected to community and the spirit of Ramadan.Many journeys continue after the initial fast is over: groups stop for Mud Prayer prayers, then hike for hours under the night sky, sometimes ending the night with a suhoor barbecue or a meal overlooking the mountains. Hikers explain that the focus is not on strenuous exercise but on shared experiences, contemplation and friendship, combining outdoor adventure with the values of generosity and solidarity that define Ramadan.
Ramadan Hiking: A spiritual fast-paced or dangerous desert safari in the UAE?
Unlike typical organized sports or fitness trends, iftar hiking is rooted in cultural adaptation and community spirit. Events are organized with the needs of fasting participants in mind, usually starting after Taraweeh prayers to allow ample time to digest iftar before physical exertion, and are smaller, capped at 25-30 people for safety reasons, especially when hiking after dark.Groups usually include fasting and non-fasting participants, and organizers take care to respect the needs of those who observe fasting, for example, non-fasting hikers not to drink water in front of others during the hike.
Why the Ramadan iftar hiking trend is growing in the UAE
Several factors contribute to the popularity of Eid al-Fitr during Ramadan –
- Perfect weather: In 2026, Ramadan coincides with the UAE’s cooler winters, making hiking in the mountains and deserts more comfortable than in the summer. Outdoor trails are more accessible and enjoyable for groups of all fitness levels.
- Health Focus: Many residents are embracing an active lifestyle even during fasting periods, opting for evening walks, jogging and socializing after Eid, a trend that is also reflected in city stadiums and parks.
- Cultural Immersion: For expats and long-time residents alike, iftar walking tours offer a meaningful way to get into the spiritual rhythms of Ramadan beyond traditional indoor gatherings. They offer a new perspective on fasting, incorporating silence, reflection and nature, while fostering new friendships between different communities.
Organizers of Iftar treks emphasize safety, especially since many treks continue after dark. Small group sizes (usually no more than 25 to 30 participants) help ensure leaders can handle the risks of night hiking in rough terrain. Participants also learn about safety protocols and trail conditions in advance.Given the diverse terrain of the UAE’s Hajar Mountains, which includes peaks such as Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah’s Jebel Al Mebrah and Jabal Qada’ah, hikers are advised to be prepared with the appropriate gear, a flashlight or headlamp, and have a plan to rehydrate once iftar officially begins.
Is Ramadan Eid in the UAE the new spiritual escape?
Iftar walks are part of a wider social shift during Ramadan in the UAE, with residents embracing outdoor and community-focused activities. For example, many people choose to exercise after Iftar by jogging, playing football or visiting public places, turning the late night into a hub of wellness and social interaction. Likewise, community events such as Ramadan Nights at Umm Al Emarat Park demonstrate how outdoor gatherings can become an integral part of the Ramadan experience in the UAE, combining cultural celebrations with family-friendly activities under the night sky.In 2026, the Iftar Walk has become a symbolic expression of how the people of the UAE are reimagining the tradition of Ramadan. They blend reflection, fitness, community spirit and adventure, complementing the core values of the holy month. More than just a fitness fad, these hikes reflect a deeper desire to connect with nature, share meaningful moments, and embrace the spiritual nature of Ramadan one sunset, one trail, one shared meal at a time.
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