Dubai — The Ramadan Souq 2026 in Deira’s Old Baladiya Street attracted a record 1.82 million visitors, marking a 12.4 percent increase over last year, Dubai Municipality announced on Wednesday. The surge was supported by a heritage-inspired setting and a diverse programme of cultural, community, and interactive activities.
The event coincided with the “Al Welfa” season, which promotes family cohesion and celebrates Emirati traditions. Organisers said the souq not only reinforced Dubai’s cultural heritage but also stimulated tourism and economic activity in historic markets, providing a platform for small and medium-sized enterprises to engage with the public.
Participants—including traditional souk shop owners, traders, entrepreneurs, and People of Determination—reported a 35 percent increase in sales, driven by high visitor engagement and a programme featuring heritage performances, handicraft workshops, interactive competitions, and kiosks showcasing local products.
Asem Al Qassim, Director of the Architectural Heritage and Antiquities Department at Dubai Municipality, said the results reflect the municipality’s ongoing efforts “to activate historic districts and heritage markets, transforming them into vibrant destinations that blend authenticity with modernity.” He added that the initiative helps revive local heritage, highlight Emirati values, and preserve Dubai’s architectural and historical identity.
This year’s edition expanded its activities compared with 2025, introducing new attractions such as a henna corner, face painting, a traditional gypsum workshop, a planting workshop, Arabic calligraphy sessions, and a dedicated children’s play area. Officials said these additions strengthened the event’s family-friendly appeal and broadened audience participation.
Organisers described the Ramadan Souq as more than a seasonal market, framing it as an integrated community platform that combines shopping, cultural learning, entertainment, and support for traditional crafts. By engaging residents and visitors alike, the event reinforces the role of historic markets as both cultural landmarks and drivers of local economic activity.
Dubai Municipality holds the annual souq as part of its wider strategy to boost tourism, support commercial activity, and encourage public engagement with the city’s historic sites. The 2026 event suggests the initiative is successfully balancing heritage preservation with community participation and economic development, with organisers aiming to expand and enhance the experience in future seasons.
