By Staff Reporter
Restaurants across the UAE experienced a sharp rise in evening revenue during Ramadan 2026, with takings increasing by as much as 40 percent compared to normal periods. The surge, driven by a concentrated post-iftar rush, has effectively reshaped peak business hours across the country’s dining sector.
According to an analysis by Syrve MENA, based on more than 4.3 million orders across its network, the hours between 7 p.m. and 11 p.m. emerged as the busiest commercial window of the year. Restaurants recorded significantly higher activity during this period, challenging the long-held perception that Ramadan is a slow season for the industry.
Data from the study shows that order volumes spike dramatically after iftar. Orders climb from over 175,000 at 7 p.m. to a peak exceeding 208,000 by 9 p.m., before remaining elevated through 11 p.m. A secondary wave of demand then builds between midnight and 2 a.m., fueled by suhoor meals.
Despite the nighttime boom, total order volumes during Ramadan are about 39 percent lower than in non-Ramadan periods. Morning activity drops sharply, with hourly orders falling to as low as 1,000 to 3,000 between 5 a.m. and late morning, compared to tens of thousands during the rest of the year.
Industry experts say the key to success lies in adapting to shifting consumer behavior. “The biggest misconception is that Ramadan is bad for the restaurant business,” said Gadzhibala Pirmagomedov. “Operators who align staffing, menus, and operating hours with the iftar-to-suhoor window can outperform their usual evening revenues.”
The data highlights two distinct revenue windows during Ramadan evenings. The pre-iftar period between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. generates the highest spending per customer, driven by group bookings, corporate gatherings, and premium set menus, particularly in destinations like Dubai.
After 7 p.m., dining habits shift toward quicker, more casual consumption. Average spending per order drops by around 15 percent in quick-service outlets, while delivery demand rises sharply, especially for family meals and traditional sweets.
Overall, while individual spending remains relatively stable, the frequency and timing of orders define Ramadan’s commercial dynamics. Across the GCC, consumer spending typically rises by 25 to 40 percent during the holy month, underlining its strong cultural and economic impact on the region’s food and hospitality sector.
