Anastasia Smith
Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, and its culinary scene reflects this diversity with a wide array of delicious dishes from around the world. From traditional Emirati cuisine to international favourites, here are some of the best dishes in Dubai that everyone should try!
Sink your teeth into the iconic Middle Eastern street food staple, shawarma. Made with thinly sliced meat (usually chicken or lamb) marinated in aromatic spices, shawarma is cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served wrapped in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables and tangy sauces. The combination of tender meat, crispy edges, and flavorful toppings makes shawarma a must-try dish in Dubai. Head to one of the many shawarma stands or restaurants across the city to savour this delicious treat.
Indulge in a creamy bowl of hummus served with warm Arabic bread, a beloved appetiser in Dubai's dining scene. Made from mashed chickpeas blended with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic, hummus is a smooth and flavourful dip that pairs perfectly with fluffy, freshly baked bread. Scoop up generous portions of hummus with torn pieces of bread, and savour the creamy texture and zesty flavors. Whether enjoyed as a snack, starter, or side dish, hummus with Arabic bread is a delicious and satisfying option for food lovers in Dubai.
Delve into the rich flavours of Emirati cuisine with machboos, a traditional rice dish that's popular across the UAE. Similar to biryani, machboos features fragrant basmati rice cooked with tender meat (often chicken, lamb, or fish) and a blend of aromatic spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. The dish is typically garnished with fried onions, nuts, and raisins, adding a delightful crunch and sweetness to each bite. Served hot and steaming, machboos is a hearty and comforting meal that embodies the essence of Emirati hospitality. For a truly immersive dining in Dubai experience, consider making reservations at restaurants offering authentic cuisines; your options include Avani Palm View Dubai — one of its restaurants is known to offer authentic Lebanese cuisine.
Experience the taste of authentic Emirati cuisine with al harees, a traditional dish that's often enjoyed during special occasions and celebrations. Made from a simple combination of wheat, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and a generous amount of butter, al harees is slow-cooked for several hours until it reaches a smooth, porridge-like consistency. The result is a rich and comforting dish with a creamy texture and hearty flavour. Often served with ghee (clarified butter) and sprinkled with cinnamon or sugar, al harees is a true taste of Emirati heritage that's sure to delight your taste buds.
Indulge your sweet tooth with kunafa, a delectable Middle Eastern dessert that's a favourite among locals and visitors alike. Made from shredded phyllo dough layered with sweet cheese or cream filling, kunafa is baked until golden brown and crispy, then soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup flavoured with rose or orange blossom water. The result is a heavenly combination of crunchy pastry and gooey cheese, topped with a drizzle of syrup and a sprinkling of crushed pistachios for added texture and flavour. Whether enjoyed warm or cold, kunafa is a must-try dessert that's sure to satisfy your cravings for something sweet in Dubai.
