Explore the vibrant flavors of Dubai with our guide to the top 10 foods that tourists love to savor during their holiday stays in this dynamic city.
Dubai, a cosmopolitan metropolis in the United Arab Emirates, is renowned for its luxurious lifestyle, futuristic architecture, and vibrant culinary scene that mirrors its multicultural population.
While traditional Emirati dishes hold a place of honor, the city’s food landscape also includes a rich tapestry of flavors from across the Middle East and beyond, appealing to the palates of international visitors.
This article highlights ten foods that are particularly popular with tourists, offering a taste of Dubai’s diverse and indulgent culinary offerings.
1. Shawarma
Shawarma is arguably one of the most beloved street foods found in Dubai. This Middle Eastern dish consists of marinated meat, usually chicken, lamb, or beef, that is stacked in a cone-like shape and roasted slowly on a vertical rotisserie.
Thin slices are shaved off and wrapped in a pita or Arabic flatbread with vegetables and sauce. Its popularity among tourists is due to its savory flavor and convenient, on-the-go format.
2. Hummus
Hummus, a creamy spread made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic, is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and has found a fervent following in Dubai.
It is commonly served with warm flatbread, making it a perfect, light snack or a side dish that complements a variety of main dishes.
Tourists often enjoy discovering the slight variations in flavor that different chefs bring to their hummus.
3. Fattoush
Fattoush is a refreshing Levantine salad that is popular in Dubai, especially during the hot summer months.
It is made with mixed greens, fresh vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers, and pieces of toasted or fried Arabic bread, which add a delightful crunch. The dressing is usually a zesty mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and sumac.
Fattoush is appreciated for its fresh, tangy taste and is a common fixture on menus across the city.
4. Al Harees
Al Harees is a traditional Emirati dish that has a special place in Dubai’s culinary heritage, particularly during the month of Ramadan and other festive occasions.
Made with just a few ingredients, primarily wheat and meat, the mixture is cooked in a clay pot for several hours until it achieves a porridge-like consistency. It’s known for its comforting, subtle flavors which are usually enhanced with ghee and local spices.
5. Tabbouleh
Tabbouleh is a beloved Middle Eastern salad that has won over many tourists in Dubai with its vibrant ingredients and healthful qualities.
It’s made from bulgur wheat, finely chopped parsley, mint, tomato, and spring onion, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. Tabbouleh is a perfect side dish that complements the rich, grilled meats of Arabic cuisine.
6. Falafel
Falafel, deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas or fava beans mixed with herbs and spices, are a popular vegetarian option.
In Dubai, these crispy treats are often served in a pita with pickled vegetables, hot sauce, and a drizzle of tahini-based sauce. Tourists enjoy falafel as a snack or a quick, satisfying meal while exploring the city.
7. Umm Ali
Umm Ali, an Egyptian dessert that is a favorite in Dubai, is a type of bread pudding made from pieces of pastry soaked in milk and cream, mixed with nuts, raisins, and coconut, and then baked until golden.
It’s often served warm with a dollop of fresh cream or ice cream on top, making it a hit among those with a sweet tooth visiting Dubai.
8. Knafeh
Knafeh, a sweet cheese pastry, is one of the most sought-after desserts in Dubai. It’s made from thin noodle-like phyllo pastry, layered with a soft, sweet cheese, and soaked in a syrup made with sugar and rose water.
The top is usually sprinkled with crushed pistachios for an added crunch. Knafeh’s popularity stems from its deliciously sweet and savory flavor profile.
9. Machboos
Machboos is a flavorful and aromatic rice dish considered a staple in the Emirati diet but also loved by tourists. It’s similar to biryani and typically prepared with rice, meat (such as chicken, lamb, or seafood), onions, and a blend of spices.
It captures the essence of Gulf cuisine and is a must-try for those looking to explore traditional Dubai dishes.
10. Camel Burger
For those looking to experience something uniquely Emirati, the camel burger offers an exotic twist on the familiar.
Camel meat is lower in fat than beef but rich in protein and flavor. Served in several upscale restaurants and boutique eateries across Dubai, it’s often prepared with a blend of spices that highlight the meat’s distinct taste, making it a novel culinary experience for adventurous tourists.
Dubai’s food scene is as diverse and opulent as the city itself, offering culinary adventurers a broad palette of flavors ranging from hearty street food to sophisticated, gourmet dishes.
Each item on this list provides a window into the region’s culture and traditions, enhanced by the city’s flair for luxury and innovation.
Whether sampling the vibrant tang of tabbouleh or the rich decadence of Umm Ali, tourists in Dubai can savor a culinary landscape that spans the spectrum of flavor and tradition.