Dubai’s bustling city is home to a diverse community that brings with it a wide range of dishes. Reflecting the multicultural nature of its inhabitants. Here are top 10 Best cuisines of Dubai to lead you on your way to experiencing the rich and diverse food culture of one of the world’s most exciting and vibrant cities.
Pack your bags, book your tickets, and prepare to indulge in the delicious flavors of Dubai!
Shawarma
Shawarma, a popular Middle Eastern dish, comprises of marinated and roasted chicken and beef, which vendors wrap in a pita bread along with vegetables, pickles, and sauces. Street food stalls across Dubai offer this delicacy, making it a must-try dish for visitors and locals alike.
Hummus
Throughout the Middle East region, Hummus – a flavorful dip made of mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic and olive oil. It is a staple dish in many Arabic cuisines and beloved in Dubai as well. Hummus is readily available in many of the city’s restaurants. Undoubtedly one of the best cuisines to indulge in while visiting Dubai.
Falafel
Dubai’s many street food stalls, restaurants, and cafes offer Falafel – a beloved vegetarian dish that is widely available.
This traditional Middle Eastern dish comprises of chickpeas, onion, garlic, herbs, and spices blended together, mixed with flour, and then deep-fried in oil until golden brown.
Manousheh
A popular breakfast or snack dish in Dubai, most Lebanese and Syrian bakeries serve Manousheh.
Savory Lebanese pastry with dough that is stretched and flattened by hand, and baked in a wood-fired oven. In Dubai, locals and visitors often consume Manousheh alongside fresh juice or tea as a breakfast dish.
Machboos
Considered a must-try dish in Dubai, Machboos, a traditional spicy rice dish that originated in the Arabian Gulf region, is very popular amongst locals and tourists for its distinctive taste resulting from its unique blend of spices.
An excellent opportunity to experience the authentic flavors of Arabian Gulf cuisine.
Luqaimat
Dubai’s diverse culinary scene offers Luqaimat – a popular Emirati dessert widely available throughout the city. Bite-sized dumplings made from a dough consisting of flour, yeast, sugar, and water are deep-fried until golden brown.
Luqaimat has long been a staple dessert during Ramadan, served after breaking the fast with the iftar meal, and is also a favorite during Eid al-Fitr festivities.
Knafeh
Knafeh, available throughout Dubai, is a popular dish. The sweet pastry is made from thin, crunchy layers of shredded phyllo dough that are layered one on top of the other, filled with a sweet, ooey-gooey cheese, and soaked in a sweet syrup.
Especially popular during Ramadan and other special occasions like Eid Al-Fitr, making it a favorite dessert for many.
Al Harees
A popular dish in Dubai, especially during religious festivals such as Ramadan, weddings, and other special occasions, Al Harees is a traditional dish.
A savory dish made from a simple combination of whole wheat, meat (usually lamb or chicken), onions, ghee, and Arabic spices and is commonly served throughout the city.
Stuffed Camel
Stuffed Camel, an extravagant and famous Emirati dish, is available in only a select few restaurants in Dubai and typically reserved for very special occasions.
It comprises a whole camel stuffed with rice, spices, and lamb or chicken, and sometimes includes other delicacies like boiled eggs, nuts, or even a whole roasted sheep.
Manakish
Manakish is a middle eastern flatbread that is widely available in Dubai. A popular breakfast food in the region and is similar to pizza.
It is often served hot and fresh in bakeries and cafes throughout Dubai. Can be eaten on the go or enjoyed as a sit-down meal alongside traditional Arabic tea or coffee.
Conclusin Dubai’s Diverse and Vibrant Culinary Scene
Dubai’s diverse and vibrant culinary scene reflects the city’s multicultural identity. It offers a top 10 list of quintessential Emirati cuisine dishes that every visitor must try.
Something for Everyone
Dubai offers something for everyone, making it the ultimate destination for foodies seeking adventure while exploring new flavors.
Rich Culinary Scene: From Street Food to Fine Dining
The city’s rich culinary scene, ranging from street food stalls to fine dining restaurants, parallels its ever-evolving food culture. With traditional Emirati dishes like Al Harees and Machboos, international specialties like Shawarma and Falafel, visitors are sure to find something that satisfies their taste buds.
The Best Cuisines of Dubai
We hope you enjoyed reading about The Best Cuisines of Dubai, and we invite you to experience the city’s culinary diversity during your visit.
BY Shudhanshu Mishra