With giving thanks, self-reflection and charitable acts and deeds at the heart of Ramadan, evening gatherings for iftar and suhoor take on, even more, meaning thanks to the special sense of blessing and occasion throughout the Holy Month.

Breaking fast at sundown and the later suhoor meal are among the defining moments of Ramadan, and as any host, new or seasoned knows, food is one of the most ancient ways to show love, thanks and appreciation. 

So too is the ambience that a beautifully presented tablescape can create when it comes to an inviting iftar table that balances function with aesthetics to entice and welcome guests to sit, eat and talk.

“The Ramadan table is where you gather with your loved ones for iftar, a time for sharing blessings and gratitude,” says Mimmi Abdul Rahman, Head Buyer and Creative Director of Bloomr. “Making the table feel festive and inviting is so important. It elevates the experience and makes the whole fasting period feel more joyful and meaningful.”

With new Ramadan collections released each year comprising serving platters, tureens, crockery, cutlery, glassware and decor, just as it is with fashion, mixing up luxury with vintage and high street pieces is a surefire way to create a table that melds gravitas and freshness.

At luxury UAE homeware brand Tanagra, serving plates, tea sets, sculptures and incense burners by design-focused maisons including Lladro, Daum, Villari, Haviland and Rosenthal capture the elegance of this time of year. Additionally, opulent pieces by Cartier, Bernardaud Venise, Elie Saab and Hermes make for statement decor that can be mixed and matched with high-end mall offerings from the likes of Marina Home, West Elm, Pottery Barn and Crate and Barrel.

“Creating a beautiful and warm tablescape can truly elevate the occasion of Ramadan,” says Jessica Lee, tabletop buyer at Anthropologie. “Enhancing the ambience with details such as lit candles, fresh flowers and carefully chosen table linens, creates an inviting and luxurious atmosphere. Layering elements like tablecloths, napkins and elegant napkin rings can further add a sense of warmth and sophistication to the setting.”

When putting together a tablescape, begin by choosing the theme or colour scheme you wish to use as a starting point. A much-loved heirloom or statement piece can also provide an emotionally heavyweight foundation on which to build your tableau, allowing you to shop the additional pieces that will complement your bedrock items or delve into your own family archives to select the pieces that will create the story you wish to tell.

“Ramadan calls for elevation and celebration, so incorporating extra-special touches can make the occasion feel even more meaningful,” says Jessica. “Metallic accents like gold and silver are perfect for adding a touch of glamour, reflecting the current trend in homeware.” She adds: “Luxurious table linens can further enhance the atmosphere, as well as ornate serveware which is ideal for presenting larger sharing dishes that foster a sense of togetherness.”

The lunar influence of the month naturally lends itself to a colour palette that centres whites, golds and pearls. However, looking beyond the traditional is the ideal way to create a tablescape that stands out.

“I usually go for a bit of a modern twist, maybe using some lovely amber or smoke brown glassware and vases instead of the usual gold. I think it adds a touch of sophistication,” says Mimmi. “And let’s not forget some natural elements like marble or travertine accents, and maybe some copper bronze cutlery instead of gold – both work beautifully. I love adding some faux green branches or dry stems to the coloured vases. It just brings the whole thing to life.”

Honouring the iftar raison d’etre of bringing together generations of family is the perfect way to create a talked-about table at which young meets old and modern meets tradition.

Incorporating trend pieces brings fresh new ideas and perspectives which, if chosen carefully, will become vintage additions to your Ramadan collection in the coming years. 

“Metallic were a huge tablescaping trend for 2024 that has carried on into 2025 and which would be perfect for Ramadan as it lends itself well to celebrations and adding that touch of luxury,” says Lee. “Another trend that’s here to stay is the use of bows, which can be incorporated into a formal Ramadan dinner table through napkin rings, chair decor or other thoughtful details.”

For Mimmi, classic pieces will always have a place at the table – “it’s a must to have lanterns, candle holders, and of course, some beautiful half-moons” – but so too do current trends, including Pantone’s colour of the year, mocha mousse.

“I love the use of bronze and chocolate browns – those colours and metals are very on-trend in 2025 and would look stunning on a Ramadan table,” she says. “Burgundy is also trending this year and would actually fit perfectly with the Ramadan spirit.”