Best foods of Dubai every one should try

Last Updated On August 28, 2023

Posted By syed Hishaam

Dubai is a vibrant and bustling city located in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is known for its impressive skyscrapers and stunning beaches. In addition to its modern attractions, Dubai also boasts a rich and diverse culinary scene, influenced by the local Emirati cuisine as well as international flavors. Visitors to Dubai can enjoy a variety of dishes ranging from traditional Emirati specialties to international favorites such as Lebanese, Indian, and Italian cuisine. With its blend of old and new, traditional and modern, the city has something for everyone. Let’s have a look at some of the best foods of Dubai that you must try.

Best foods in Dubai

1

Tahta malih

Tahta malih stands as a treasured traditional food in Dubai, still enjoyed today with its original taste preserved. Using salted and preserved fish called malih, this dish harks back to a time when fresh fish was scarce in the Emirates. Popular fish like mackerel, tuna, herring, and queenfish are used, with yellowfin tuna being a common choice. Check out one of the best seafood restaurants in Dubai and have it taste. While relishing this delicacy, it’s important for those with high blood pressure to be mindful of its salt content.

Places to try

  • Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe
  • Seven Sands
  • Local Bites Café
  • Logma
  • Al Makan

Tahta malih
2

Madrouba

Madrouba is a famous dish in Dubai that people also enjoy in Bahrain and Oman. The most popular kind is made with chicken, but you can also find versions with fish, lamb, or crushed grains. To make it, they use ingredients like rice, garlic, onions, tomatoes, yogurt, and spices. They also add a bit of butter.

They call it ‘madrouba’ because, at the end of making it, they mix everything together until it becomes a smooth mash. This dish is good for everyone because it’s easy to digest and gentle on your stomach.

Places to try

  • Seven Sands
  • Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe
  • Logma
  • Emirati Kitchen

Madrouba
3

Thareed

Thareed is a special dish in Dubai that’s also common in the Gulf region. It’s especially popular in Dubai. They make it with pieces of bread and vegetables soaked in a tasty broth with meat. People serve this dish during important events, and it’s full of vitamins and protein.

Thareed includes meat and a broth made from wholewheat bread and vegetables. It’s a food that gives you a lot of energy and is known to be healthy because it has lots of plant protein.

Places to try

  • Aseelah
  • taste
  • Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe
  • Noor Al Mandi

Thareed
4

Kousa Mahshi

Imagine stuffed courgettes or zucchini wrapped in delicious flavors. Kousa Mahshi is a classic dish loved in Dubai. It’s like a main course where they fill courgettes or zucchini with rice. People love its yummy taste, and that’s why it’s considered a special food in Dubai. Some people even say it’s the best in the world! You should definitely give it a try when you’re in Dubai.

Places to try

  • Seven Sands
  • Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe
  • Local Bites Café

Kousa Mahshi
5

Baba Ganoush

If you’re hungry, Baba Ganoush is a fantastic starter. It’s a dip made of smoked eggplant mixed with onions, tomatoes, and olive oil. This dish is from the Levantine region, and it’s a great way to start a meal. People really like it, and it’s become one of the best foods in Dubai. If you’re not sure where to find it, the local people will happily tell you where to go. Don’t miss the chance to taste this special Dubai food during your vacation!

Places to try

  • Zaroob
  • Operation: Falafel

Baba Ganoush
6

Fatteh

Fatteh is like a tasty tower of flavors. It’s perfect for a meal in the early evening. There are three layers in it. The bottom layer is bread soaked in stock, then there are chickpeas and stuffed aubergines in the middle, and on top, you get yogurt and tahini sauce. You can add paprika and pine nuts for even more taste. It’s one of the best foods in Dubai, and you can find it in some of the best restaurants in the UAE.

Places to try

  • Al Hallab
  • Reem Al Bawadi

7

Kellaj

Bread and cheese together have never been this good! Kellaj is like a bread filled with halloumi cheese, and they grill it on charcoal. It’s perfect when you’re a bit hungry in the evening. This dish has been loved in Dubai for a long time, and it’s one of the best things you can eat here.

Places to try

  • Mabani
  • QD’s Dubai Creek

Kellaj
8

Shawarma

Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern Street food that has become a beloved global cuisine, including in Dubai. It is made by stacking thin slices of marinated meat, typically chicken, beef and lamb etc., on a vertical spit and then rotating it slowly as it cooks. As the meat cooks, it is shaved off the spit in thin, succulent slices and typically served inside a warm pita bread with vegetables, hummus, tahini sauce, and other condiments.

While shawarma’s exact origins are unclear, it is believed to have originated in Turkey or Lebanon and then spread throughout the Middle East and beyond. Today, it is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, and variations of the dish can be found in many other cultures, including Greek and Mexican cuisine.

In Dubai, shawarma is a popular street food. There are many stalls and restaurants throughout the city that offer Dubai foods. It is a convenient and delicious option for a quick meal, and the meat can be customized with different marinades and spices to suit individual preferences. Additionally, shawarma has gained popularity worldwide due to its delicious taste, affordability, and convenience of eating it on the go.

Places to try

  • Laffah Restaurant
  • Al Mallah, Dubai
  • Al Ijaza Cafeteria
  • Al Safadi
  • Belad Al Sham

Shawarma
9

Chicken Saloona

In the midst of the modern food choices available in the Emirates, Chicken Saloona stands firm as a beloved dish in the United Arab Emirates. This Emirati stew is cherished for its simple preparation, delightful taste, and incredible flavor. A must-try during your time in Dubai, it’s a dish that has secured its place on many dinner tables.

Chicken Saloona is crafted using tender pieces of chicken, along with flavorful ingredients like turmeric, olive oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, onions, chili, and a blend of spices. These elements come together to create a dish that not only offers amazing flavor but is also rich in essential vitamins and protein. This stew is a common sight at special occasions and feasts across the Emirates, holding a special spot in the hearts of both locals and visitors.

Places to try

  • Seven Sands
  • Local Bites Café
  • Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe
  • Al Makan
  • Logma
  • Emirati Kitchen

10

Al Harees

Al Harees is a Dubai national dish that is considered a staple in the local cuisine of Dubai. The dish is made from a mixture of wheat and meat, usually lamb or chicken, that is slow-cooked in a clay pot or underground oven until it becomes a smooth and creamy porridge-like texture. The dish is traditionally served during special occasions, such as weddings and religious festivals, and is often shared among family and friends.

The preparation of best Harees in Dubai is a labor-intensive process. It involves washing, soaking, and boiling the wheat before adding the meat and cooking it for several hours until it is fully tender. The dish is seasoned with salt and pepper, and sometimes additional spices such as cinnamon and cardamom are added to enhance the flavor. Once fully cooked, the dish is typically served hot with a dollop of ghee, a type of clarified butter, on top.

Al Harees is not only a delicious and hearty food in Dubai but also a symbol of the Emirati hospitality and tradition. It is often served to guests as a sign of respect and is considered a symbol of unity and community. Its popularity has spread beyond Dubai, and it can now be found in other parts of the Middle East as well as in countries with large Emirati communities.

Places to try

  • Harees Al Waldha, Abu Dhabi
  • Al Hamar Kitchen
  • Hardees and Mahashi Restaurant
  • Al Qaiem Public Kitchen

Al Harees
11

Jasheed

Jasheed is a well-loved dish in the Gulf region, and it showcases the significance of fish in Emirati cuisine, especially in coastal areas where fresh fish plays a vital role in many meals. Typically made with small sharks or other available fish, Jasheed is enjoyed with rice.

To prepare Jasheed, the fish is initially cooked with water and spices until the skin peels off, after which it’s carefully cleaned and placed in a pot with a blend of flavorful ingredients like bazaar spice mix, cinnamon, ginger, ground dried lemon, cardamom, chopped onion, and garlic. The fish is then shredded and mixed with spices, simmering until it’s well-cooked and the flavors have melded together. This hearty fish dish, adorned with a rich blend of aromatic spices, embodies the Gulf’s culinary heritage and is a treat enjoyed after a patient and loving preparation process.

Places to try

  • Ravi Restaurant
  • Gazebo Restaurant
  • Puranmal
  • Dubai Fish Hut
  • Bait Al Mandi
  • Al Makan

12

Falafel

Shawarma holds the title of being the go-to street food for non-vegetarians in Dubai, while Falafel serves as a convenient and satisfying alternative for vegetarians. Falafel consists of deep-fried chickpeas patty, and when combined with fresh vegetables and an array of dressings, it creates a magical culinary experience, making it one of the most sought-after dishes in the region.

Places to try

  • Operation Falafel
  • Manoushe Street
  • Zaroob
  • Ka’ak Al Manara
  • Flooka
  • Al Humsani Restaurant
  • Kris Kros Lebanon
  • The Hummus House
  • Karam Beirut
  • Aroos Damascus

Falafel
13

Meat Biryani

Biryani is a dish that has traveled far and wide, reaching Dubai and winning hearts. Originating from Indian cuisine, it has become popular in the Arab world for its delicious taste. Made with fragrant basmati rice and an assortment of spices, meat biryani can be prepared with chicken or other meats. This dish is a blend of diverse flavors that come together to create a savory sensation that Dubai residents and visitors alike relish.

Places to try

  • Gharana
  • Biryani pot
  • Calicut paragon
  • Jaffar Bhai’s
  • Sthan

14

Machboos

Machboos, also known as Kabsa, is a popular rice dish that is considered a national dish in the UAE, especially in Dubai. It is a savory and aromatic dish that is made with basmati rice and a variety of spices, typically including cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. The dish is usually prepared with meat, such as chicken, lamb, or fish, but can also be made with vegetables or seafood.

To prepare the best Machboos in Dubai, the meat is marinated in a blend of spices, including cumin, turmeric, and black pepper, before being cooked in a pot with onions, tomatoes, and other vegetables. The rice is then added to the pot, along with water or chicken broth, and cooked until it is fully cooked and fluffy. The dish is typically garnished with toasted almonds, raisins, or fried onions, and served with a side of salad or yogurt.

Machboos is a staple dish in Emirati cuisine and is often served during special occasions, such as weddings and Eid celebrations. It is also a popular dish among locals and tourists alike in Dubai, with many restaurants and food stalls offering their own take on the dish. With its rich and aromatic flavors, Machboos Dubai is a must-try dish for anyone looking to experience the unique and delicious cuisine of Dubai.

Places to try

  • AL Fanar Restaurant & cafe
  • Dubai Festival City Mall
  • Dogma
  • Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant
  • Arabian Tea House

Machboos
15

Grilled seafood

Grilled seafood is a popular dish in Dubai due to its proximity to the Persian Gulf and the abundance of fresh seafood available. The dish typically consists of a variety of seafood, such as shrimp, fish, calamari, and lobster, that are marinated in a blend of spices and grilled to perfection. The seafood is often served with a side of salad, rice, or vegetables.

Seafood is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, and is low in saturated fat and calories. Grilling the seafood adds a smoky flavor and charred texture, making it a delicious and satisfying meal. Seafood is widely available at seafood restaurants and food stalls, and is often served with traditional Middle Eastern dips and sauces, such as hummus or tahini. Whether you are a seafood lover or simply looking for a delicious and healthy meal, grilled seafood is a must-try dish when visiting Dubai. Moreover, for a unique seafood experience in Dubai, yacht rental Dubai is an ideal choice.

Places to try

  • Eat Greek
  • Samad Al Iraqi restaurant
  • Chival
  • Nammos Dubai
  • Palm Grill Beach Restaurant

Grilled seafood
16

Knafeh

Snap a photo of the gooey cheese-pull when you dig into Knafeh at a local café. This Middle Eastern dessert sensation is a must-try during your Dubai city tour. Don’t miss out on the queues that form, especially during Ramadan, when locals savor it for Iftar. The velvety, cheese-filled treat is at its best when enjoyed fresh, right after it’s made. Keep an eye out for cafes serving up this delight in its prime.

Places to try

  • Al Hallab Bab El Bahr
  • Al Samadi Sweets
  • Feras Al Diyafa Sweets
  • Firas Sweets
  • Salé Sucré
  • Bosporus Turkish Cuisine
  • Al Baba Sweets

17

Arabic mezze

Arabic mezze is a traditional Middle Eastern way of serving small dishes or appetizers that are shared among a group of people. The term “mezze” refers to a selection of small dishes, which can include a variety of hot and cold dishes, such as salads, dips, grilled vegetables, and meat dishes. Arabic mezze is a popular food item in Dubai and is often served as a starter or snack.

The dishes included in Arabic mezze can vary depending on the region and the occasion. Some of the most common dishes include hummus, baba ganoush (a dip made from roasted eggplant), tabbouleh (a salad made from parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat), and stuffed grape leaves.

Arabic mezze is a social and communal way of dining that is perfect for sharing with friends and family. In Dubai, Arabic mezze is widely available at cafes, restaurants, and street food stalls, making it a popular and convenient food option. Whether you are a vegetarian or a meat lover, Arabic mezze is a must-try dish for anyone visiting Dubai.

Places to try

  • Kazoza
  • Beirut Bay
  • Al Beiruti
  • Al Safadi
  • Cairo 30
  • Fnajeen
  • Ibn Hamido
  • 1001 Arabian Meals

Arabic mezze
18

Mandi

Mandi is a traditional Yemeni dish that has become popular throughout the Middle East, including Dubai. It consists of meat (usually lamb or chicken) and rice that are cooked together in a tandoor oven. The meat is marinated in a blend of spices, including cumin, coriander, and black pepper, giving it a flavorful and aromatic taste. The rice is also seasoned with spices, including saffron, cinnamon, and cardamom, and is cooked in the meat juices, resulting in a delicious and fragrant dish.

Mandi is typically served on a large platter, with the meat placed on top of the rice. It is often accompanied by a spicy tomato-based sauce and a side salad. In Dubai, Mandi is widely available at restaurants and food trucks, making it a popular and convenient food option. It is a hearty and filling meal that is perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether you are a meat lover or simply looking for a delicious and authentic Middle Eastern dish, Mandi is a must-try when in Dubai.

Places to try

  • Zam Zam Mandi restaurant
  • Maraheb
  • Bait Al Mandi
  • Raiden Mandi Dubai
  • Makarem Restaurant

19

Sushi

Sushi, a culinary masterpiece hailing from Japan, has become a global sensation and a cherished delicacy in Dubai. This artful dish is a symphony of flavors, textures, and visual appeal. At its core is vinegared rice, carefully seasoned with a mixture of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. The star of the show, though, is the seafood – from raw fish like tuna, salmon, and yellowtail to cooked delights like shrimp. Slices of this exquisite seafood are expertly placed atop bite-sized mounds of rice, a testament to the precision and artistry that sushi demands.

Accompanying these creations are an array of elements that elevate the experience. Wasabi adds a pungent kick, while pickled ginger cleanses the palate between bites. Soy sauce offers a salty depth, and delicate curls of seaweed, or nori, can wrap the ensemble. Then there are the innovative variations, like rolls – maki and uramaki – where rice, fish, and vegetables are enclosed in sheets of nori or thin omelet. Dubai’s twist on sushi often showcases a fusion of flavors, with ingredients that reflect the city’s cosmopolitan spirit.

Places to try

  • Akira Back
  • Asia Asia
  • Blue Seafood Asia
  • CLAP
  • Fujiya
  • Goldfish
  • Hanami
  • Hōseki
  • Kiku
  • Kimura-Ya
  • MayaBay
  • Mimi Kakushi

Sushi
20

Lobster

Lobster, the crown jewel of seafood, takes center stage in Dubai’s culinary scene, celebrated for its luxurious taste and indulgent texture. Whether enjoyed on a pristine sandy beach or within the opulent confines of a high-end restaurant, lobster is a true delicacy that epitomizes Dubai’s penchant for extravagance.

Dubai’s culinary artisans transform lobster into a myriad of exquisite dishes. Grilled lobster tail, a succulent masterpiece, is often brushed with butter and herbs, imparting a smoky aroma and rich flavor. Lobster bisque, a velvety soup made from lobster stock, cream, and aromatic spices, tantalizes the senses with its depth and opulence. For those seeking a fusion of flavors, Dubai’s culinary scene often presents lobster paired with Middle Eastern spices or complemented by locally inspired accompaniments.

Places to try

  • Aprons & Hammers
  • Giardino Dubai
  • Ewan Restaurant
  • Urban Seafood
  • Seagrill Bistro
  • Caravan
  • Tesoro, Taj Dubai
  • Zuma Dubai
  • Joe’s Crab Shack
  • Cibo Italiano
  • The Boardwalk
  • Carine Restaurant

Lobster
21

Hummus

Hummus is a popular Middle Eastern dip that has become a beloved food item in many parts of the world, including Dubai. The dip is made from mashed chickpeas, tahini (a paste made from ground sesame seeds), garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. These ingredients are blended together to create a creamy, smooth texture that is perfect for dipping pita bread or vegetables.

Hummus is a healthy and nutritious food item that is rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, iron, and magnesium. In Dubai, hummus is widely available at cafes, restaurants, and street food stalls, and is often served as a snack or an appetizer.

Places to try

  • Al Nafoorah
  • Arabian Tea House
  • Awtar
  • Babel
  • Foul w Hummus
  • Mama’esh
  • The Hummus House.

22

Shish Tawook

Shish Tawook is a popular Middle Eastern dish that is commonly served in Dubai. It consists of marinated chicken skewers that are grilled to perfection and often served with rice, salad, and garlic sauce. The chicken is marinated in a blend of yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and various spices, which infuse it with flavor and tenderize the meat.

Shish Tawook is a healthy and nutritious dish that is perfect for lunch or dinner. The chicken is a great source of lean protein, while the salad provides vitamins and fiber, and the rice is a good source of carbohydrates. The garlic sauce adds a delicious and tangy flavor to the dish, making it even more appetizing.

It is a must-try dish for anyone interested in experiencing the authentic flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine. Whether you are a meat lover or a vegetarian, Shish Tawook is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Places to try

  • The Coffee Club
  • Umami
  • Circle Cafe
  • French Bakery
  • Smoke Stack
  • Farzi Cafe

Shish Tawook
23

Fatayer

Fatayer is a pastry that is popular in Dubai and throughout the region. It is a triangular-shaped pastry that is filled with a variety of ingredients, such as cheese, spinach, or meat. The dough is made with flour, yeast, and water, and is rolled out thinly before being filled and shaped. It is typically baked until golden brown and served as a snack or side dish. It is a savory pastry that is rich in flavor and has a soft, chewy texture.

The fillings vary, but some of the most popular types include spinach and feta cheese, ground beef or lamb, or a mix of herbs and spices. However, it’s a must-try dish for anyone interested in experiencing the authentic flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine. Whether you are a vegetarian or a meat lover, Fatayer is a delicious and satisfying pastry that is perfect for enjoying on its own or as part of a meal.

Places to try

  • Gulf Pastry
  • Al Mandaloun
  • Mezza House Restaurant & Cafe Lounge
  • Sul Fiume Restaurant & Cafe
  • Al Amoor Express

24

Ouzi

Ouzi is a Middle Eastern dish that is popular in Dubai and throughout the region. It is a savory rice dish that is often served at special occasions and celebrations, such as weddings and Eid al-Fitr. The dish consists of spiced rice that is topped with roasted lamb, chicken or beef, along with nuts, raisins, and a variety of herbs and spices.

The meat is usually marinated in a blend of spices and herbs before being roasted, which gives it a rich and flavorful taste. The rice is typically cooked with a variety of vegetables, such as carrots and peas, which add to the dish’s nutritional value.

Ouzi is a must-try dish for anyone interested in experiencing the authentic flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine. It is often served at family gatherings and special events, and is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for sharing with loved ones. In Dubai, Ouzi is widely available at Middle Eastern restaurants and food stalls, and is a popular choice for lunch or dinner.

Places to try

  • Seven Sands
  • Local Bites Café
  • Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe
  • Al Makan
  • Logma
  • Emirati Kitchen

Ouzi
25

Tabouleh

Tabouleh is a salad that is popular in Middle Eastern cuisine, including in Dubai. It is made with a blend of chopped parsley, tomatoes, onions, and bulgur wheat, dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. The salad is often seasoned with salt and pepper, and sometimes includes additional herbs, such as mint or coriander. It’s a refreshing and healthy dish that is perfect for hot weather. It is often served as a side dish or appetizer, and is a common component of mezze platters. The salad is a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, and is also low in calories, making it a nutritious option for those who are health-conscious.

In Dubai, Tabouleh is widely available at Middle Eastern restaurants and food stalls. It is a must-try dish for anyone interested in experiencing the authentic flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine. Whether you are a vegetarian or a meat lover, Tabouleh is a delicious and refreshing salad that can be enjoyed as part of a meal or as a standalone dish.

Places to try

  • Abd El Wahab, Dubai Marina
  • Wafi Gourmet – Dubai Mall
  • Al Safadi Restaurant Umm Al Sheif
  • Mezze House Restaurant
  • Al Hallab Bab El Bahr
  • Awani
  • Asma
  • Leila Restaurant
  • Zahr El Laymoun Alasly
  • Al Mandaloun
  • Dar Al Halabi
  • Al Hallab

26

Luqaimat

Luqaimat is one of the traditional foods in Dubai that is enjoyed throughout Dubai and the wider UAE. These bite-sized sweet treats are made from a dough that is typically made from flour, milk, and sugar, and flavored with saffron and cardamom. The dough is then deep-fried until it turns golden brown and becomes crispy on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy on the inside.

Once fried, the Luqaimat are traditionally drizzled with a generous amount of date syrup or honey, giving them a sweet and sticky coating. They are usually served hot, making them a perfect treat to warm up on a chilly day. Luqaimat are typically enjoyed during Ramadan, Eid, and other special occasions, but can also be found at street vendors and dessert shops throughout Dubai.

While Luqaimat may be simple in their ingredients, they are a beloved dessert in Emirati cuisine, and their popularity has spread to other parts of the Middle East and beyond. They offer a delicious combination of flavors and textures, making them a perfect way to end a meal or to indulge in a sweet treat anytime. If you are in Dubai, be sure to try Luqaimat, and experience the unique and delicious flavors of Emirati cuisine.

Places to try

  • The Arabian Tea House Restaurant and Cafe in Bastakiya
  • Milas Restaurant at the Dubai Mall
  • Al Fanar Restaurant and Café
  • Humyum Restaurant
  • Loqmato

Luqaimat
27

Manousheh

Manousheh is a popular Lebanese flatbread that has become a staple breakfast food in Dubai. It is typically made from a dough that is similar to pizza dough, topped with a variety of savory or sweet ingredients, and then baked in a wood-fired oven. Manousheh can be made with a variety of toppings, such as za’atar (a blend of herbs and spices), cheese, meat, and vegetables.

The origins of manousheh date back to ancient times, and it is considered an important part of Lebanese cuisine. It has become popular in Dubai due to the city’s multicultural population and growing interest in Middle Eastern food.

In Dubai, manousheh is often eaten for breakfast and can be found at many local bakeries and street food stalls. It is typically served with a side of yogurt, olives, or vegetables and is a filling and satisfying breakfast option.

Manousheh is not only delicious but also versatile and can be eaten at any time of the day. Its popularity has spread beyond the Middle East, and it can now be found in cities around the world. If you are in Dubai, be sure to try manousheh and experience the unique and delicious flavors of this beloved Lebanese flatbread.

Places to try

  • Manousheh Street
  • Something Baked
  • Zaatar W Zeit
  • Manaesho
  • Zaroob
  • Allo Beirut

Manousheh
28

Grilled Halloumi

Grilled halloumi is a popular dish in Dubai and throughout the Middle East. Halloumi is a semi-hard cheese made from a mixture of cow, goat, and sheep milk, and it has a unique texture that allows it to be grilled or fried without melting.

To prepare grilled halloumi, the cheese is typically cut into slices or cubes and then grilled or pan-fried until it becomes crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The dish can be served on its own or as part of a larger meal, such as a mezze platter or a salad.

Grilled halloumi is a favorite among vegetarians and is often used as a meat alternative in sandwiches or burgers. Its salty and tangy flavor makes it a versatile ingredient that can be paired with a variety of other flavors, such as sweet fruits or spicy sauces. It is a delicious and satisfying dish that is easy to prepare and enjoy, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. If you are in Dubai, be sure to try grilled halloumi and experience the unique and delicious flavors of this beloved Middle Eastern cheese.

Grilled Halloumi
29

Balaleet

Balaleet is a traditional Emirati breakfast dish that is commonly eaten in Dubai and other parts of the UAE. It is a sweet and savory vermicelli pudding that is typically made from thin, toasted vermicelli noodles, eggs, and sugar, and flavored with cardamom, saffron, and rose water.

To prepare balaleet, the vermicelli noodles are first toasted in butter until they turn golden brown. Then, a mixture of beaten eggs, sugar, and milk is added to the noodles and cooked until it thickens and forms a creamy pudding-like consistency. The dish is typically flavored with cardamom, saffron, and rose water, giving it a fragrant and exotic aroma.

Balaleet is often served for breakfast, and it can be enjoyed on its own or with a side of dates, fresh fruit, or Arabic coffee. It is a beloved dish in Emirati cuisine, and it has become a popular choice among locals and tourists alike in Dubai.

If you are in Dubai, be sure to try balaleet and experience the unique and delicious flavors of Emirati cuisine. Its sweet and savory flavor profile and fragrant aroma make it a perfect breakfast dish or a sweet treat to indulge in anytime.

Balaleet
30

Al Machboosat

Al Machboosat is a traditional Emirati rice dish that is popular in Dubai and throughout the UAE. It is a spicy and flavorful dish that is made from a combination of long-grain rice, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and a blend of aromatic spices.

To prepare Al Machboosat, the meat is first marinated in a mixture of spices such as turmeric, cardamom, cinnamon, and cumin, and then cooked until it is tender. The rice is then cooked separately with additional spices and stock, and the meat is added to the rice towards the end of the cooking process. The dish is then typically garnished with fried onions, raisins, and nuts.

Al Machboosat is often served during special occasions such as weddings, and it is a staple of Emirati cuisine. It is a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for sharing with friends and family, and it is usually accompanied by side dishes such as salads, chutneys, or yogurt.

If you are in Dubai, be sure to try Al Machboosat and experience the unique and delicious flavors of Emirati cuisine. Its blend of spices and tender meat make it a perfect meal for any occasion. However, its popularity has spread beyond the UAE, making it a favorite dish among food lovers around the world.

Places to try

  • Al Meshwar Restaurant
  • Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant
  • Arabian Tea House
  • Logma
  • Al Fanar Restaurant and Café

Al Machboosat
31

Stuffed camel

Stuffed camel is a traditional Emirati dish that is often served during special occasions such as weddings and other large gatherings. As the name suggests, the dish involves stuffing a whole camel with a variety of ingredients, which can include rice, spices, onions, and lamb or chicken.

To prepare stuffed camel, the camel is first cleaned and then stuffed with the ingredients. The camel is then sewn shut, and the entire animal is roasted slowly over an open fire for several hours until the meat is tender and the stuffing is cooked to perfection.

Stuffed camel is a unique and flavorful dish that is not commonly found in restaurants, and it is often prepared by locals or Bedouin tribes for special occasions. The dish is a symbol of hospitality and generosity, and it is often served to large groups of people who gather to share in the celebration.

While stuffed camel is not a dish that is readily available in Dubai, it is a fascinating example of the rich and diverse cuisine of the UAE, and it highlights the importance of food and hospitality in Emirati culture. If you ever have the opportunity to try stuffed camel, it is a dish that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Stuffed camel
32

Mahalabiya

Mahalabiya is a popular dessert that is enjoyed in Dubai and throughout the Middle East. It is a sweet and creamy pudding that is made from a mixture of milk, sugar, and cornstarch, and flavored with rose water or orange blossom water. To prepare Mahalabiya, the ingredients are mixed together and then heated on the stove until the mixture thickens and forms a custard-like consistency.

The pudding is then poured into individual serving dishes and allowed to cool in the refrigerator. It is often garnished with nuts, dried fruits, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Mahalabiya is a delicious and refreshing dessert that is perfect for hot summer days. It is typically served after a meal or as a sweet treat to enjoy with tea or coffee. The dish is a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, and it has become a popular choice among locals and tourists alike in Dubai.

If you are in Dubai, be sure to try Mahalabiya and experience the unique and delicious flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine. Its creamy texture and fragrant aroma make it a perfect dessert to indulge in anytime, and its popularity has spread beyond the Middle East, making it a beloved dessert around the world.

Mahalabiya

Final Words

Dubai’s cuisine is as diverse and rich as its culture, reflecting the city’s unique history and geographic location.  Whether you are a foodie looking to explore new flavors or a traveler eager to experience local culture, Dubai’s cuisine is sure to delight your taste buds. So be sure to sample some of these delicious dishes on your next visit to this vibrant city and discover the culinary wonders that await you.

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FAQs

Shawarma, Falafel, and various dishes from Emirati cuisine such as Al Harees and Machboos are must-try foods in Dubai.

Yes, Falafel is a popular and delicious vegetarian street food choice in Dubai.

Falafel in Dubai is deep-fried and served in a roll with fresh vegetables and dressings, creating a delightful and magical taste.

You can find authentic Arabic coffee, also known as “Gahwa,” at traditional cafes and cultural centers like the Dubai Coffee Museum.

You can try Emirati breakfast dishes at local cafes like Arabian Tea House and Logma.

You can enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants like Pierchic and Fish Beach Taverna.

Yes, Al Harees, Machboos, and Luqaimat are traditional Emirati dishes that offer unique flavors and experiences.

Yes, Shawarma is a ubiquitous street food in Dubai and is readily available throughout the city.

Umm Ali, a delightful bread pudding, and the sweet fried dumplings known as Luqaimat are popular dessert choices in Dubai.

Are there any must-visit restaurants in Dubai for food enthusiasts?

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