15 Must-Try Foods in Dubai for Every Traveler

Must-Try Foods in Dubai Key Takeaways

Dubai’s food scene is a wild ride — think sizzling shawarma on a street corner and gold-dusted pastries at sky-high restaurants.

• Discover the Must-Try Foods in Dubai that define the city’s multicultural vibe, including street eats like shawarma and high-end dishes like camel burger.
• Get practical tips on where to find these dishes, what to order, and how to eat like a local — whether you’re on a budget or splurging.
• Learn the story behind each dish so you can impress your travel buddies with foodie knowledge.

Table of Contents

1. Why Every Traveler Should Explore the Must-Try Foods in Dubai
2. How This List Was Curated
3. The 15 Must-Try Foods in Dubai (From Street Eats to Fine Dining)
4. 1. Shawarma
5. 2. Al Harees
6. 3. Camel Burger
7. 4. Manousheh (Manakish)
8. 5. Luqaimat
9. 6. Falafel
10. 7. Grilled Lamb Kebab with Khubz
11. 8. Arabic Coffee (Gahwa) with Dates
12. 9. Machboos
13. 10. Sambousek
14. 11. Smoked Laban
15. 12. Grilled Halloumi
16. 13. Umm Ali
17. 14. Iranian Sangak Bread
18. 15. Arabic Sweets (Kunafa and Baklava)
19. Tips for Enjoying the Best Foods in Dubai for Travelers
20. Useful Resources
21. What is the most iconic street food in Dubai?
22. What is a traditional Emirati breakfast?
23. Is street food safe in Dubai?
24. What is the most popular dessert in Dubai?
25. Where can I try camel meat in Dubai?
26. What is the difference between shawarma and kebab?
27. Are there vegetarian-friendly traditional dishes in Dubai?
28. What is Arabic coffee and how is it different from regular coffee?
29. Can I find halal food in Dubai?
30. What is the best area for food in Dubai?
31. How much does food cost in Dubai?
32. Is tipping expected in Dubai restaurants?
33. What is a typical Emirati lunch?
34. Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants in Dubai?
35. What is the most spicy food in Dubai?
36. Can I eat pork in Dubai?
37. What is the national dish of the UAE?
38. Is Dubai food expensive for tourists?
39. What drinks should I try in Dubai?
40. What is the best time to eat in Dubai?

Why Every Traveler Should Explore the Must-Try Foods in Dubai

Dubai isn’t just about towering skyscrapers and desert safaris — it’s a culinary melting pot. With over 200 nationalities living here, the food reflects a mix of Middle Eastern, South Asian, African, and Western influences. From humble shawarma carts to Michelin-starred kitchens, the city offers flavors that surprise at every turn.

The best foods in Dubai for travelers range from cheap eats to luxurious tasting menus, so there’s something for every budget and palate. In this guide, we’ll walk you through 15 dishes you absolutely cannot miss, plus where to find them and how to order like a pro.

How This List Was Curated

We focused on dishes that locals love and that represent Dubai’s unique food culture. The list includes street food, traditional Emirati fare, and global hits that have found a second home here. Each entry comes with a recommendation for a restaurant or stall, plus a tip to make your experience even better.

The 15 Must-Try Foods in Dubai (From Street Eats to Fine Dining)

Ready to eat your way through Dubai? Here are the dishes you need to try, in no particular order — but each one is a winner.

1. Shawarma

Shawarma is the king of Dubai street food. Thinly sliced chicken or beef, marinated overnight, stacked on a vertical spit, and shaved off into warm pita bread with garlic sauce, pickles, and fries. It’s messy, it’s delicious, and it’s everywhere.

Where to try: Al Mallah (opposite Lamcy Plaza) has been serving iconic shawarma since 1979. Go for the chicken shawarma with extra garlic.

2. Al Harees

Al Harees is a traditional Emirati porridge made from wheat and meat (usually chicken or lamb), slow-cooked for hours until it’s creamy and comforting. It’s often served during Ramadan and weddings but can be found year-round at cultural restaurants.

Where to try: Al Fanar Restaurant and Cafe in Dubai Festival City serves an authentic version in a heritage setting.

3. Camel Burger

Yes, camel meat is a thing in Dubai — and it’s surprisingly lean and flavorful. The camel burger is a modern twist on a traditional ingredient, often topped with caramelized onions, cheese, and special sauces. It’s a novelty you have to taste to believe.

Where to try: Local House in JLT offers a camel burger that tourists rave about. Pair it with sweet potato fries.

4. Manousheh (Manakish)

Think of manousheh as the Middle Eastern pizza. It’s a flatbread topped with za’atar (thyme and sesame blend) and olive oil, or cheese, or minced lamb. It’s baked in a wood-fired oven and eaten for breakfast or lunch. Fluffy, fragrant, and addictive.

Where to try: Al Reef Lebanese Bakery on Al Wasl Road makes fresh manousheh all day. The za’atar version is a classic.

5. Luqaimat

These golden dumplings are the ultimate Emirati dessert. Deep-fried balls of batter are drizzled with date syrup and sprinkled with sesame seeds. They’re crispy on the outside, soft inside, and not too sweet.

Where to try: Al Mallah also serves excellent luqaimat, or head to Logma (multiple locations) for a modern twist with chocolate sauce.

6. Falafel

Dubai’s falafel is far superior to the dry balls you get elsewhere. Here, they’re made fresh from chickpeas (not fava beans), deep-fried to order, and stuffed into pita with tahini, pickles, and salad. Perfect for vegetarians.

Where to try: Operation Falafel in Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) is a crowd-pleaser. Order the “Falafel Full” platter.

7. Grilled Lamb Kebab with Khubz

Iranian-style kebabs are a big deal in Dubai. Juicy minced lamb or chicken sliders are grilled over hot coals, served with grilled tomatoes, raw onion, and a giant piece of flatbread (khubz). Simple, smoky, and satisfying.

Where to try: Al Ustad Special Kebab in Bur Dubai is a legendary spot open since 1978. The lamb kebab with yogurt is a must.

8. Arabic Coffee (Gahwa) with Dates

Not a dish, but an essential experience. Arabic coffee is spiced with cardamom and saffron, served in a small cup alongside sweet dates. It’s a symbol of hospitality and the perfect palate cleanser between meals.

Where to try: Arabian Tea House in Al Fahidi Historical District offers a serene setting with complimentary gahwa and dates.

9. Machboos

Machboos is the Emirati national dish: spiced rice (similar to biryani) with chicken or lamb, cooked with dried limes and rosewater. It’s fragrant, filling, and full of flavor. Think of it as Dubai’s answer to comfort food.

Where to try: Al Fanar Restaurant serves a fantastic machboos, or try the street-food version at Ravi Restaurant (Satwa) — a local institution.

10. Sambousek

These deep-fried pastries are stuffed with spiced meat, cheese, or spinach. They’re the Middle Eastern equivalent of samosas and are perfect for snacking. Crispy, golden, and often served with yogurt dip.

Where to try: The walk-up counter at Al Samadi Sweets in Bur Dubai makes fresh sambousek daily. Get the cheese version.

11. Smoked Laban

Laban is a strained yogurt, but Dubai chefs have elevated it by smoking it over oak wood. The result is a creamy, tangy dip with a subtle smoky flavor. It’s served with warm bread or as a side to grilled meats.

Where to try: 3 Fils in JLT is a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant that serves a legendary smoked laban. Get it with their sourdough bread.

12. Grilled Halloumi

Halloumi cheese, when grilled, becomes squeaky and golden on the outside, soft inside. It’s often served with watermelon for a sweet-savory contrast or simply on a mezze platter. A vegetarian favorite.

Where to try: The halloumi at Bistro Des Arts in JLT is a crowd favorite. Pair it with a mint lemonade.

13. Umm Ali

This Egyptian dessert is popular in Dubai too. It’s a bread pudding made with puff pastry, milk, nuts, and raisins, baked until bubbly and golden. Served warm, it’s the best thing after a long day of sightseeing.

Where to try: Al Reef Bakery (also known for manousheh) serves a fantastic Umm Ali. Or try the version at Shahi Palace for a richer taste.

14. Iranian Sangak Bread

Sangak is a sourdough flatbread baked on hot pebbles, which gives it a distinctive pattern. It’s chewy, tangy, and perfect for dipping in olive oil or laban. You can buy it fresh from bakeries.

Where to try: Look for the bakery near Al Ustad Special Kebab — they sell fresh sangak from 7 am. It’s a local tradition.

15. Arabic Sweets (Kunafa and Baklava)

End your food tour with a plate of kunafa (shredded pastry with cheese, soaked in rose syrup) or baklava (layers of phyllo with pistachios and honey). They’re decadent, aromatic, and the perfect finale.

Where to try: Al Samadi Sweets is a Dubai institution. Their kunafa with cream is legendary.

Tips for Enjoying the Best Foods in Dubai for Travelers

To get the most out of Dubai’s food scene, keep these tips in mind:

• Go local: Skip the tourist zone and head to neighborhoods like Bur Dubai, Deira, and Al Satwa for authentic eats.
• Stay hydrated: Dubai is hot, and many spices will make you thirsty. Drink plenty of water.
• Vegetarian? No problem: Most restaurants have great veg options — falafel, hummus, halloumi, manousheh, and laban are all easy finds.
• Alcohol note: Many traditional restaurants do not serve alcohol. Check the menu if it’s important to you.
• Cash is king at street stalls: Smaller stalls prefer cash. Keep a stack of small dirhams handy.

Useful Resources

Plan your food adventure with these helpful guides:

• Dubai Tourism: Authentic Emirati Food Guide — an official guide to traditional dishes and where to find them.
• Time Out Dubai: Best Foods to Try — a local editor’s list of must-eat dishes and restaurant recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Must-Try Foods in Dubai

What is the most iconic street food in Dubai?

Shawarma is the undisputed king of Dubai street food. You’ll find it at nearly every corner, served in pita bread with garlic sauce and pickles.

What is a traditional Emirati breakfast?

A typical Emirati breakfast includes manousheh (za’atar flatbread), balaleet (sweet vermicelli with eggs), and Arabic coffee with dates.

Is street food safe in Dubai?

Yes, Dubai has strict food safety standards. Even street stalls are regularly inspected. Choose busy stalls with high turnover for the freshest options.

What is the most popular dessert in Dubai?

Luqaimat (deep-fried dumplings with date syrup) and kunafa (cheese pastry with syrup) are two of the most popular desserts among locals and tourists.

Where can I try camel meat in Dubai?

Local House in JLT serves a famous camel burger. You can also find camel meat in traditional stews at heritage restaurants like Al Fanar.

What is the difference between shawarma and kebab?

Shawarma is made from marinated meat cooked on a vertical spit and shaved off, while kebab is ground or cubed meat grilled on skewers. Both are popular in Dubai.

Are there vegetarian-friendly traditional dishes in Dubai?

Yes, falafel, hummus, baba ghanoush, manousheh (za’atar or cheese), sambousek (cheese or spinach), and grilled halloumi are all vegetarian-friendly.

What is Arabic coffee and how is it different from regular coffee?

Arabic coffee (gahwa) is lightly roasted and infused with cardamom and saffron. It’s served in small cups without sugar and often accompanied by dates.

Can I find halal food in Dubai?

Almost all restaurants in Dubai serve halal food. Halal certification is standard, especially for meat dishes.

What is the best area for food in Dubai?

Bur Dubai, Deira, and Al Satwa are the best neighborhoods for authentic, affordable food. JLT and Dubai Marina have more international and fine-dining options.

How much does food cost in Dubai?

Street food like shawarma or falafel costs around 5–10 AED. A mid-range meal at a local restaurant is 40–80 AED. Fine dining can be 200+ AED per person.

Is tipping expected in Dubai restaurants?

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. 10% of the bill is standard for good service. Some restaurants add a service charge automatically.

What is a typical Emirati lunch?

A typical Emirati lunch includes machboos (spiced rice with meat) or al harees (wheat porridge), served with a side of salad and laban.

Are there any Michelin-starred restaurants in Dubai?

Yes, Dubai has several Michelin-starred restaurants, including Al Muntaha at Burj Al Arab and 3 Fils in JLT (Bib Gourmand).

What is the most spicy food in Dubai?

While Emirati food is mild, you can find spicy dishes at Indian and Pakistani joints. Try the chicken tikka or lamb vindaloo at Ravi Restaurant.

Can I eat pork in Dubai?

Pork is not widely available due to halal practices, but some Western hotels and supermarkets have dedicated pork sections.

What is the national dish of the UAE?

Machboos (spiced rice with meat) is widely considered the national dish of the UAE. Al Harees is also a strong contender.

Is Dubai food expensive for tourists?

It can be, but there are plenty of affordable options. Street food and local eateries in Bur Dubai offer great value for money.

What drinks should I try in Dubai?

Arabic coffee, mint lemonade, and fresh mango lassi are excellent non-alcoholic choices. Jallab (date syrup with rose water) is also popular.

What is the best time to eat in Dubai?

Dinner is the main meal, usually eaten after 8 pm. During Ramadan, meals shift to after sunset (iftar) and late night (suhoor).

Must-Try Foods in Dubai offer a delicious window into the city’s soul. Whether you’re grabbing a shawarma on the go or sitting down for a feast of machboos, each bite tells a story. So next time you’re in Dubai, eat your way through this list — your taste buds will thank you.