Why is Alsimrah expanding its capacity in 2026 when other Ramadan venues are seeing mixed results?

Aljada’s team saw a big jump in bookings last year—about 28 percent more than in 2024—so they’re confident there’s enough demand to fill the extra seats. Plus, Aljada isn’t just a Ramadan spot; it’s a busy mixed-use area with shops, homes, and offices, so there’s always foot traffic, even outside the Holy Month. That steady flow of visitors helps keep the tent busy.

How does Alsimrah’s pricing compare to hotel iftar packages in the UAE?

Alsimrah keeps things affordable, with prices usually between 120 and 200 AED per person. That’s a lot cheaper than most five-star hotel iftars, which can run anywhere from 200 to 400 AED. Since the tent is temporary, it doesn’t have the same overhead costs as a hotel, so it can offer great food at lower prices while still making a profit.

What happens if Alsimrah doesn’t fill all its seats?

Running a tent this big is a bit of a gamble. If fewer than 60 percent of the seats are filled, it could be tough to cover costs, especially since most of the revenue comes in just a 90-minute window each evening. If things don’t go as planned, Aljada might have to drop prices or take a loss, especially if the economy slows down or other tents attract more visitors.

Is Alsimrah’s growth part of a bigger trend in UAE hospitality?

Absolutely. More people are choosing casual, culturally rich Ramadan tents over formal hotel iftars. Tents like Alsimrah are cheaper to run than hotels, and they offer a more relaxed, authentic vibe that a lot of visitors prefer. It’s a shift that’s shaking up the industry, and we’re likely to see even more of these venues popping up in the coming years.

Are Sharjah’s five-star hotels losing business to Ramadan tents?

It looks like some hotels are feeling the pressure, especially in the mid-price range. Many are now focusing on ultra-luxury iftars (think 500 AED and up) to keep their high-end customers, while letting the tents take over the more affordable market. Whether this strategy will work long-term is still up in the air, but for now, it seems like both can coexist.

Alsimrah, Sharjah’s largest Ramadan tent, returns to Aljada with expanded capacity this Holy Month

March 5, 2026

Imagine stepping into a world where the rich aromas of traditional Emirati dishes mingle with the lively hum of conversation, all under the soft glow of lanterns and fairy lights. Alsimrah, Sharjah’s largest Ramadan tent, is returning to Aljada for the 2026 Holy Month with an expanded capacity to welcome 3,000 visitors daily—a 40 percent increase from its previous installation. This year’s event promises to be more spectacular than ever, offering a unique blend of cultural authenticity and modern dining experiences. As one of the most anticipated Ramadan destinations in the UAE, Alsimrah has become a cornerstone of Sharjah’s hospitality sector, generating millions in revenue while redefining how communities come together to break their fast. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, Alsimrah offers an unforgettable iftar experience that captures the spirit of Ramadan in a warm, inviting setting.

What to Expect

As you enter Alsimrah, the first thing you’ll notice is the warm, golden glow of traditional lanterns casting intricate shadows across the expansive tent. The air is filled with the rich, spiced aromas of slow-cooked lamb, fragrant biryani, and freshly baked bread, mingling with the sweet scent of dates and cardamom-infused coffee. The sound of soft Arabic music drifts through the space, creating a soothing backdrop to the lively chatter of families and friends gathering to break their fast. The tent itself is a marvel of design, with plush seating arranged in cozy clusters, allowing for both intimate gatherings and larger group celebrations. As the call to prayer echoes in the distance, the atmosphere shifts—plates clatter, glasses clink, and the energy of shared meals fills the air. Whether you’re indulging in classic Emirati dishes or exploring contemporary twists on regional favorites, every bite is a celebration of Ramadan’s culinary traditions. The experience is as much about the food as it is about the sense of community, making Alsimrah a truly immersive cultural experience.

Alsimrah, Sharjah's largest Ramadan tent, is set to return for the 2026 Holy Month at Aljada, now with a 40 percent increase in capacity to welcome an estimated 3,000 visitors daily. This expansion marks a significant milestone for Sharjah’s hospitality sector, as the tent generated approximately 2.5 million dirhams in direct food and beverage sales during the 2025 season, according to Aljada management. Visitors can look forward to a vibrant blend of traditional iftar dining and contemporary culinary concepts, all available throughout the 30-day Ramadan period. The growth of Alsimrah reflects a broader shift in the UAE’s hospitality landscape, where Ramadan-focused venues are gaining traction by offering unique, culturally rich experiences that challenge the dominance of traditional hotel-based iftar models. For many, Alsimrah has become a go-to destination, blending festive ambiance with affordability and convenience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Alsimrah expanding its capacity in 2026 when other Ramadan venues are seeing mixed results?: Aljada’s team saw a big jump in bookings last year—about 28 percent more than in 2024—so they’re confident there’s enough demand to fill the extra seats. Plus, Aljada isn’t just a Ramadan spot; it’s a busy mixed-use area with shops, homes, and offices, so there’s always foot traffic, even outside the Holy Month. That steady flow of visitors helps keep the tent busy.
How does Alsimrah’s pricing compare to hotel iftar packages in the UAE?: Alsimrah keeps things affordable, with prices usually between 120 and 200 AED per person. That’s a lot cheaper than most five-star hotel iftars, which can run anywhere from 200 to 400 AED. Since the tent is temporary, it doesn’t have the same overhead costs as a hotel, so it can offer great food at lower prices while still making a profit.
What happens if Alsimrah doesn’t fill all its seats?: Running a tent this big is a bit of a gamble. If fewer than 60 percent of the seats are filled, it could be tough to cover costs, especially since most of the revenue comes in just a 90-minute window each evening. If things don’t go as planned, Aljada might have to drop prices or take a loss, especially if the economy slows down or other tents attract more visitors.
Is Alsimrah’s growth part of a bigger trend in UAE hospitality?: Absolutely. More people are choosing casual, culturally rich Ramadan tents over formal hotel iftars. Tents like Alsimrah are cheaper to run than hotels, and they offer a more relaxed, authentic vibe that a lot of visitors prefer. It’s a shift that’s shaking up the industry, and we’re likely to see even more of these venues popping up in the coming years.
Are Sharjah’s five-star hotels losing business to Ramadan tents?: It looks like some hotels are feeling the pressure, especially in the mid-price range. Many are now focusing on ultra-luxury iftars (think 500 AED and up) to keep their high-end customers, while letting the tents take over the more affordable market. Whether this strategy will work long-term is still up in the air, but for now, it seems like both can coexist.