Dubai is a melting pot of flavors, where traditional Emirati cuisine meets global culinary influences. If you’re a foodie looking to experience the authentic tastes of the city, here’s a guide to some must-try dishes. Let your taste buds embark on an unforgettable adventure!
Savor the Flavors of Traditional Emirati Cuisine
1. Luqaimat
These golden, crispy dumplings are a popular Emirati dessert, drizzled with date syrup or honey. They’re the perfect sweet treat for any occasion.
2. Harees
A hearty dish made with wheat and slow-cooked meat, Harees is comfort food at its finest, especially during Ramadan.
3. Madrouba
A creamy blend of rice, chicken, and spices, Madrouba is a soul-warming dish often enjoyed with a dollop of ghee.
4. Majboos
A fragrant rice dish cooked with tender meat or chicken, Majboos is flavored with a unique mix of spices that will transport you to the Arabian Gulf.
5. Thareed
Known as the Emirati version of lasagna, Thareed is a layered bread and stew dish, combining meat, vegetables, and rich flavors.
6. Margoogat
This tomato-based stew is a staple in Emirati homes. Whether made with chicken, lamb, or vegetables, it’s served with freshly baked bread.
7. Chicken Saloona
A simple yet flavorful chicken stew, Saloona is loaded with vegetables and aromatic spices. It pairs beautifully with rice or bread.
8. Oozie
A festive dish often served at celebrations, Oozie is a delightful combination of spiced rice, tender meat, and nuts.
Diving Into Regional Delicacies
9. Meat Biryani
Dubai’s version of biryani is packed with spices and succulent meat, offering an unforgettable burst of flavor in every bite.
10. Jasheed
For seafood lovers, Jasheed is a must-try. This Emirati specialty features seasoned, slow-cooked baby shark served with rice.
11. Chebab
Emirati pancakes served with cream cheese or date syrup make for a delicious breakfast option to start your day.
12. Tahta Malih
A traditional fish dish, Tahta Malih is cooked with salted fish and spiced rice, offering a taste of the UAE’s coastal heritage.
International Flavors in Dubai
13. Shawarma
A street food favorite, Shawarma in Dubai is an explosion of flavor. Whether you choose chicken, lamb, or beef, it’s always a satisfying snack.
14. Hummus
This creamy chickpea dip is a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine and pairs perfectly with warm pita bread.
15. Knafeh
A sweet treat of spun pastry soaked in syrup and layered with cheese or cream, Knafeh is a dessert you’ll crave long after leaving Dubai.
Book Your Culinary Adventure with JoVacations
Enhance your Dubai or Abu Dhabi tour with a personalized culinary experience! At JoVacations, we curate tours that allow you to savor your favorite Arabic cuisines while exploring the wonders of the UAE.
From indulging in Luqaimat by the Dubai Fountains to relishing a traditional Majboos meal in Abu Dhabi, we ensure your journey is as flavorful as it is memorable.
Don’t just visit Dubai—taste it!
Book your next adventure with JoVacations and immerse yourself in the rich culinary traditions of the UAE.
