Australians travelling to Dubai in July can expect a true cultural experience at Atlantis, The Palm as the United Arab Emirates honours the holy month of Ramadan. Atlantis' opulent Asateer Tent is the perfect place to witness Muslims breaking their daily fast and sample some of the region's mouth-watering Arabic cuisine.

Ramadan is the 'fasting month' in the Islamic calendar. Those observing Ramadan are required to fast – refrain from food or drink – from sunrise to sunset for around one month (this year until July 27). There are two main meal times during the evening celebrations, Iftar, the first meal of day that breaks the fast, and Sohour, the last meal before fasting begins again at dawn.

During Ramadan thousands of locals and visitors make a beeline to Atlantis' lavish beachfront tent Asateer to celebrate this holy month and share Iftar and Sohour with family and friends.

Overlooking the Arabian Gulf, Asateer delivers an Arabian nights experience with traditional entertainment such as Arabic oud players and monochord artists. The massive tent is stunningly decorated to evoke Dubai's cultural blend of ancient heritage and modern luxury. 

Food is a focal point, offering both fasting and non-fasting (those pregnant or injured for instance) guests the opportunity to indulge in a true taste of Arabia. Asateer guests can enjoy a gastronomic tour of the Middle East with a range of traditional and signature dishes such as Ouzi, a lamb and rice dish infused with Arabic spices. The dessert bar overflows with Turkish delight and nougat, as well as Arabic ice cream mixed with regional favourites such as Baklawa, Arabic Coffee, Mistika and Emirati Dates.

“Ramadan is a truly special time of the year for us at Atlantis, as it is for Muslims across the world,” says Australian Mark Patten, Senior Vice President of Food & Beverage for Atlantis, The Palm. “We strive at all times to blow away our guests, and our special Ramadan tent, Asateer does just that. The introduction of Iftar at Nobu is an added bonus, perfect for those who want to experience a Ramadan tradition in a modern setting.”

Asateer also serves a variety of international cuisine, with Iranian, Indian, Emirati and Continental dishes. Iftar is available from 6:15pm or sunset-8:30pm for AED 195 (approx A$55) per person and Suhour from 9:30pm-2:30am with a minimum spend of AED 150 pp (approx $43), excluding shisha.

Atlantis respects all religious traditions and for non-fasting guests, restaurants remain open to offer a discreet regular service.

About Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai

Atlantis, The Palm is the first entertainment resort destination in the region and located at the centre of the crescent of The Palm in Dubai. Opened in September 2008, the unique ocean-themed resort features a variety of marine and entertainment attractions, as well as 17 hectares of waterscape amusement at Aquaventure Waterpark, all within a 46 hectare site. It is home to one of the largest open-air marine habitats in the world, with over 65,000 marine animals in lagoons and displays including The Lost Chambers Aquarium, a maze of underwater corridors and passageways providing a journey through ancient Atlantis. Aquaventure features 18 million litres of fresh water used to power thrilling waterslides, a 2.3 kilometre river ride with tidal waves and pools, water rapids and white water chargers. Atlantis, The Palm is also known as the culinary destination in the region with a collection of world-renowned restaurants including Nobu and Ronda Locatelli. The resort boasts an impressive collection of luxury boutiques and shops as well as extensive meeting and convention facilities.