Dubai Municipality has announced that the Ramadan Souq 2026 in Deira’s Grand Souk welcomed 1.82 million visitor
Dubai Municipality has reported a record turnout for Ramadan Souq 2026, held on Old Baladiya Street within the Deira Grand Souk, welcoming 1.82 million visitors — a 12.4% increase compared with the 2025 season. The rise of more than 200,000 visitors was driven by an authentic heritage-inspired ambience, complemented by a diverse programme of cultural, community, and interactive entertainment activities.
This year, the Souq expanded its accompanying activities, offering a wider range of workshops and experiences for all ages. New attractions included a henna corner, face painting, traditional gypsum and planting workshops, Arabic calligraphy sessions, and a dedicated children’s play area, enhancing the market’s family-friendly appeal and encouraging broader audience participation.
The growth reflects Dubai Municipality’s ongoing commitment to enhancing visitor experiences and developing the Souq from a seasonal heritage market into a vibrant community platform that combines entertainment, cultural learning, and support for traditional crafts. The initiative strengthens the event’s sustainability while positioning it among Dubai’s most prominent Ramadan celebrations.
Coinciding with the “Al Welfa” season, which celebrates family cohesion and Emirati cultural traditions, the Souq contributed to tourism, economic activity, and the support of small and medium-sized enterprises. Participants, including souk shop owners, traders, entrepreneurs, and People of Determination reported a 35% increase in sales, benefiting from strong visitor engagement and an enriching programme of heritage performances, interactive competitions, handicraft workshops, and local product kiosks.
Community partnerships with government and private entities further enhanced the Souq’s appeal, attracting residents and tourists alike to experience one of Dubai’s leading celebrations of Emirati heritage within its historic trading hubs. Through these initiatives, Dubai Municipality continues to reinforce traditional markets as key cultural and tourism destinations while fostering economic sustainability and community engagement.
