Top 10 Iconic Foods to Try in Dubai & Where to Eat Them

Dubai is a paradise for food lovers, offering a blend of Emirati, Middle Eastern, and international cuisines. If you're planning Dubai Tour, you must try local delicacies of Dubai. Here’s a comprehensive list of top 10 iconic foods to try in Dubai and the best places to find them.

1. Al Harees – A Traditional Emirati Delicacy

What is Al Harees?
Al Harees is a traditional Emirati dish made from wheat, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and salt, slow-cooked for hours until it reaches a creamy, porridge-like consistency.

Where to Try It?

Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe – Dubai Festival City Mall
Local Emirati households (during Ramadan and special occasions)

2. Shawarma – Dubai’s Street Food Favorite

What is Shawarma?
Shawarma consists of slow-roasted marinated meat (chicken, beef, or lamb) wrapped in Arabic bread with garlic sauce, pickles, and vegetables.

Where to Try It?

Al Mallah – Satwa & Al Nahda
Shawarma Grill House – Jumeirah Beach Road
Zaroob – Sheikh Zayed Road

3. Mandi – The Aromatic Rice Dish

What is Mandi?
Mandi is a flavorful rice dish cooked with meat (chicken, lamb, or camel) and a blend of Arabic spices, prepared in an underground clay oven for an authentic smoky taste.

Where to Try It?

Al Yemen Mandi Restaurant – Deira
Bait Al Mandi – Jumeirah

4. Machboos – The Emirati Version of Biryani

What is Machboos?
Machboos is a spiced rice dish similar to biryani, cooked with chicken, lamb, or seafood, and flavored with saffron, cinnamon, and dried limes.

Where to Try It?

Seven Sands – The Beach, JBR
Logma – Boxpark, Al Wasl Road

5. Luqaimat – Sweet Emirati Dumplings

What is Luqaimat?
Luqaimat are deep-fried dumplings, crispy on the outside and soft inside, drizzled with date syrup or honey and sprinkled with sesame seeds.

Where to Try It?

Arabian Tea House – Al Fahidi
Local Emirati food stalls during Ramadan

6. Falafel – A Vegan Delight

What is Falafel?
Falafel is a deep-fried ball or patty made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, often served in pita bread with tahini sauce and salad.

Where to Try It?

Operation Falafel – JBR, The Beach
Manoushe Street – Various Locations

7. Knafeh – The Ultimate Middle Eastern Dessert

What is Knafeh?
Knafeh is a rich, cheesy dessert soaked in sweet syrup, topped with crispy shredded phyllo pastry and pistachios.

Where to Try It?

Feras Aldiyafa Sweets – Multiple locations
Qwaider Al Nabulsi – Deira

8. Samboosa – The Emirati-Style Samosa

What is Samboosa?
Samboosa is the UAE’s version of the Indian samosa, stuffed with spiced meat, vegetables, or cheese, deep-fried to golden perfection.

Where to Try It?

Ravi Restaurant – Satwa
Bu Qtair – Umm Suqeim

9. Grilled Seafood – Fresh and Flavorful

What is Special About Dubai’s Grilled Seafood?
Dubai’s coastal location makes it a hub for fresh seafood, including grilled kingfish, shrimp, and hammour, served with Arabic spices.

Where to Try It?

Bu Qtair – Umm Suqeim
Fish Market – Radisson Blu, Deira

10. Camel Milk Chocolate – A Unique Emirati Treat

What is Camel Milk Chocolate?
Camel milk chocolate is a luxurious Emirati confectionery, known for its creamy texture and nutritional benefits.

Where to Try It?

Al Nassma Chocolate Boutique – Dubai Mall
Local Souvenir Shops

Final Thoughts

Dubai offers a diverse culinary experience, blending traditional Emirati flavors with global influences. Whether you're a food lover or an adventurer seeking authentic tastes, these top 10 iconic foods are a must-try when visiting Dubai. Make sure to explore these famous eateries to enjoy an unforgettable gastronomic journey.