Listly by Joanna James
Dubai is one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and is renowned for its futuristic architecture, luxurious lifestyle, and vibrant cultural sentiments. Dubai has transformed from a fishing village into a global forefront for entrepreneurship and innovation. This city is home to the world's tallest manmade structure, the Burj Khalifa which is an iconic monument offering breathtaking views from its observation decks. Aside from its architectural prowess, Dubai has managed to successfully integrate the traditional aspects of its culture into the modernized version of Dubai.
When exploring Dubai, travellers can experience a wide range of activities and terrains, the experiences are not limited to the city and the desert. Dubai's culinary experiences are diverse, reflecting its multicultural city in the most brilliant ways through traditional cuisine and fusions between different cultures. From high-end restaurants led by celebrity chefs to bustling street food markets, the city offers an amazing journey for the tastebuds of any traveller.
Dubai's cuisine is a rich reflection of its multicultural population and status as a global city, offering a taste for every palate. Aside from the high-end cuisine options, Dubai is also famous for its diverse street food, including shawarma, falafel, and manakish, reflecting Middle Eastern influences. When thinking about restaurants in Dubai, high-end cuisine options are available such as the restaurants in Avani Deira Dubai Hotel and street food vendors as well.
The Dubai Food Festival is an amazing opportunity for foodies across the globe to celebrate the diversity of Dubai’s cuisine. It features food trucks, pop-up restaurants, and cooking demonstrations run by homegrown and international talents. Additionally, areas like Al Dhiyafah Road and Al Muraqqabat Street are known for their array of restaurants offering Indian, Pakistani, Filipino, and Ethiopian dishes.
Luqaimat is a dish often enjoyed during Ramadan, this dish contains a collection of crispy, golden, and sweet dumplings. The dish is made using a simple batter of flour, yeast, sugar, and saffron, which gives them a distinctive flavour and aroma. After this, a very fragrant and sweet syrup made from dates or honey is drizzled over the Luqaimat and sometimes sprinkled with sesame seeds. A beautiful combination of sweetness and textures makes this dish a must-have when visiting Dubai.
Margoogat is a traditional stew known for its rich flavours and hearty ingredients, that will bring warmth to your body and soul. This dish is typically made with chicken or lamb, and it features a tomato-based broth infused with spices such as turmeric, cumin, and cinnamon. Additionally, vegetables such as potatoes, tomatoes, and bell peppers are added, creating a thick stew that pairs well with rice or a warm flatbread making it a match made in heaven.
Machboos are also known as Majboos, and it is an aromatic and flavorful traditional dish from the Arabian Gulf, which is a staple in Dubai. This dish contains a very flavourful bed of spiced rice often cooked with meat (lamb, chicken, or fish) and a blend of spices, including cardamom, cinnamon, dried lime, and saffron, which has a distinctive taste making this a unique dish. This dish is accompanied by a garnish of nuts and raisins, served with a side of yoghurt or salad.
Al Harees is a traditional Emirati dish, popular during Ramadan and other festive occasions. This dish is made from a few simple ingredients such as wheat, and meat (usually chicken or lamb); this dish is slow-cooked for several hours until it reaches a creamy, porridge-like consistency and baked in a clay pot for added flavour. Al Harees is typically garnished with ghee and sometimes sugar, providing a rich and comforting taste that reflects the warmth and hospitality of Dubai and its residents.
Tahta Maleh is a traditional dish known for its bold flavours and it is made with salted fish, (typically kingfish or sardines), and combined with rice, onions, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices. Tahta Maleh is often garnished with fried onions and served with fresh salad or yoghurt which is a staple side dish for most Arabic cuisine.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.