Are you bored of eating the same old regular food? Do you want to expand your palate to the delightful tastes of Emirati cuisines? Well, you are in luck because, in this blog, we will be taking note of all the mouthwatering, diverse dining experiences Dubai has to offer. So, get ready to have a joy ride through all the popular foods you need to try on a Dubai City Tour!
Why Should You Try Emirati Food In Dubai?
Your trip will remain incomplete if you do not try Emirati food in Dubai. Emirati food is revered as the best fusion on the planet. The reason for this is that it consists of flavors from all across the Middle East. Emirates, particularly Dubai, is considered the crossroad of all Eastern cultures coming together. When you taste Emirati cuisine, you can find the influences of Iranian, Mediterranean, Turkish, Arabian, and even Indian foods.
Another unique aspect of Emirati foods is that the ancient natives of Dubai were taking a very diverse diet due to their unique seashore location. This allowed them access to expansive lands for farming and vast seas for fishing. Such unique conditions gave them the opportunity to craft delicious seafood and desert animal-based recipes. Emirati food is truly the best of both worlds, with flavourful tastes from the land and the sea.
Which Dubai Traditional Foods Should You Try?
The offerings of diverse dining in Dubai extend beyond borders, inviting you to explore a world of flavors in one vibrant city. From traditional Emirati delights to global fusion creations, each dish tells a story, making your culinary journey in Dubai a truly unforgettable experience.
- Al Harees, a slow-cooked marvel that combines wheat and meat, is one of many Dubai traditional foodssavored during Ramadan and special occasions.
- Indulge in the aromatic delight of Al Machboos, a spiced rice dish often prepared with lamb or chicken.
- No visit to Dubai is complete without savoring the iconic Shawarma.
- For a taste of the Middle East, delve into the world of Falafel, made from ground chickpeas or fava beans.
- Dubai also offers a kebab extravaganza featuring shish kebabs, seekh kebabs, and kofta.
- Indulge in the creamy goodness of Hummus, a popular dip crafted from mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic.
- Experience the freshness of Tabbouleh, a refreshing salad crafted from finely chopped parsley, tomatoes, onions, and bulgur wheat.
- Delight in the exquisite Kunafa, a Middle Eastern dessert featuring thin noodle-like pastry soaked in syrup and often layered with cheese or nuts.
- You can also try Luqaimat, deep-fried sweet dumplings drizzled with date syrup or honey.
- Put a beautiful end to your culinary journey on a sweet note with Baklava, a Middle Eastern pastry that is filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey.
Where Can You Get Authentic Emarati Food In Dubai?
The culinary scene in Dubai is a testament to the city’s diversity and richness. It’s time to embark on a journey into the heart of Dubai and its popular food landscape, unveiling the captivating fusion of traditional Emirati flavors with global influences.
Logma
Situated in Dubai Mall on Financial Centre Road, Logma stands as a casual café presenting authentic Khaleeji cuisine. From Emirati pancakes to heartier dishes, Logma provides an authentic taste of Dubai. The Balaleet, Logma’s version with sweet vermicelli and saffron-spiced omelet, is a breakfast specialty that shouldn’t be missed.
Saba’a
Located on Al Seef Street, Dubai Creek Side, Saba’a provides a traditional setting with atmospheric wind towers. Known for stalwart dishes like foul medames and mezze, Saba’a emphasizes meshawi or grills in the evening. The Meshawi, featuring platters of mixed meat or seafood, promises a feast for the senses.
Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant
A recent addition to Dubai’s growing list of Emirati eateries, Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant focuses on handpicked farm-fresh ingredients. The menu covers everything from local favorites like chebabs to hearty meat-laden dishes and sizzling seafood platters. Beid wa tomat, dango, and balaleet offer a diverse Emirati culinary experience.
Local House
Established in 1997 by Khalid Al Halyan, Local House remains a longstanding local favorite. Situated in Al Bastakiya, it offers a diverse menu featuring Emirati flavors across seafood, starters, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and desserts. The camel burger, a specialty introduced by Local House, adds a unique touch to the culinary experience.
Siraj
Found in Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, Siraj brings a modern twist to Emirati-Levantine flavors. From warm date and kale salad to lobster kibbeh, Siraj offers a unique culinary journey. The perfectly grilled saffron prawns, marinated with just the right amount of spice, showcase the restaurant’s innovation.
Al Fanar Restaurant and Cafe
With rustic-style decor and a varied menu, Al Fanar recreates old-world Arabia. Situated in Dubai Festival City Mall, it offers Emirati classics such as maleh nashef and jesheed. Al Fanar’s shorbat adas, a delicately spiced lentil soup, contributes to a quintessential Arabian dining experience.
SMCCU
Located in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, the SMCCU is a cultural haven. It offers a diverse range of authentic Emirati cuisine, allowing patrons to immerse themselves in local culture. The Traditional Arabic coffee served in small finjaan cups adds to the unique experience.
Aseelah
Nestled in the Radisson Blu Hotel on Baniyas Road, Deira, Aseelah offers a contemporary twist on traditional Emirati flavors. The menu showcases imaginative dishes that seamlessly blend indigenous ingredients with European cooking techniques. A must-try is the Poached Arabian lobster with herbed pilaf, pureed peas, and fennel salad, providing a unique and delightful culinary experience.
SMAT
Favored for its authentic Emirati breakfast dishes, SMAT, located in Dubai Design District, is a recurring choice for many. From the thin, crispy regag to the Emirati meat macaroni pasta, each dish is meticulously crafted using homegrown suppliers’ ingredients. SMAT ensures a delightful start to the day with its rich Arabic coffee and flavorful breakfast options.
Final Words
The diverse dining scene in Dubai offers an expansive range of culinary delights, from traditional Emirati dishes to global fusion creations. With influences from all over the Middle East, Dubai’s food scene is a testament to the city’s cultural richness and diversity. So, whether you’re a foodie or just looking to expand your palate, Dubai is the perfect destination for you.
Make sure to add these foods to your Dubai tour itinerary and embark on an unforgettable culinary journey. Alternatively, you can also select various Desert Safari in Dubai Packages provided by reputable touring agencies like Desert Evening Safari. The flavors of Emirati food in Dubai are waiting to be explored. Bon appétit!
