Guide · 26 October 2026
Live music for Ramadan and Eid
Ramadan in the UAE is a month of reflection and generosity, and evenings revolve around iftar, suhoor and time with family, friends and colleagues. Music at these gatherings is gentle and traditional; Eid, which follows, is a time for celebration. Here is how to choose live music that fits the spirit of each. Ramadan 2027 is expected to begin on or around 8 February, with Eid al-Fitr around 9–10 March; the official dates are confirmed by the moon sighting.
The tone for Ramadan gatherings
Ramadan evenings call for calm, warm, traditional sound rather than party music. Instrumental Arabic music is the natural choice: it creates atmosphere around the iftar or suhoor table without dominating conversation. Keep the volume low, the repertoire classical and the presentation elegant.
Every venue and host has its own approach to entertainment during the holy month, so confirm what is appropriate with your venue first.
Musicians that suit iftar and suhoor
- Oud player — the voice of Arabic music; warm and intimate, ideal for a majlis or a VIP welcome
- Qanun player — a shimmering, ornamented sound at the heart of classical Arabic music
- Oud and qanun duo — the classic pairing for hotel tents, majlis evenings and corporate iftars
- Female oud and qanun players — for ladies-only gatherings
Timing around the evening
Plan the music around the rhythm of the evening rather than over the moment of iftar itself. Guests break their fast, many pray, and then the evening relaxes — that is when music works best. For suhoor gatherings, music can run later into the night. Your venue or host will know local prayer times for the date.
Corporate Ramadan events
Corporate iftars and suhoors are a chance to thank clients and teams. An oud and qanun duo in traditional dress sets a refined, respectful tone. For larger venues, a traditional Arabic ensemble can be amplified lightly so the whole room hears it without it becoming a performance.
Eid celebrations
Eid is joyful, and the music can be too. An Arabic singer with an Arabic band brings the classics everyone knows; traditional drummers make a festive welcome; and family gatherings can add a DJ for dancing. For ladies-only Eid gatherings, a female Arabic singer with female musicians is a favourite.
Book early
Ramadan and Eid are among the busiest weeks of the year for Arabic musicians, and the best oud and qanun players are booked well ahead. Send us your dates, venue and guest count as soon as your plans are set; we usually reply within minutes on WhatsApp.
Questions, answered
What music is appropriate for an iftar?
Gentle, traditional instrumental Arabic music — oud, qanun or a small traditional ensemble — at a low volume, planned around the meal and prayer times. Confirm with your venue what is appropriate.
When is Ramadan 2027?
Astronomical forecasts put the start on or around 8 February 2027 and Eid al-Fitr around 9–10 March. The UAE confirms the official dates after the moon sighting.
Can you provide female musicians for Ramadan gatherings?
Yes — female oud and qanun players and female Arabic singers for ladies-only iftars, suhoors and Eid gatherings.
