If you’re landing in Dubai, the first thing to do is eat. The city mixes Arabian flavors with global twists, and a few dishes have become local legends. Below you’ll find the top foods you can’t miss, plus practical tips on where to find them and how much to spend.
Shawarma is the king of quick bites. Thin‑sliced chicken or lamb, wrapped in a warm pita with garlic sauce, pickles, and fresh veggies. Look for it at Al Mallah on Al Dhiyafah Street or the many stalls near Dubai Mall. A regular Shawarma costs around 12–15 AED, and you can grab one for lunch in under five minutes.
Falafel and Hummus are the perfect veggie‑friendly combo. Crunchy falafel balls dunked in creamy hummus, drizzled with olive oil, make a great snack or light meal. Head to the Arabian Tea House in Al Fahidi or the bustling Deira market for authentic taste. Prices hover between 10‑14 AED per plate.
Luqaimat, the sweet dumplings, are Dubai’s answer to doughnut holes. Light, airy, and drenched in date syrup or honey, they’re served hot at Ramadan tents and street fairs. Try them at Al Seer Station or the night market in Al Khawaneej. A small plate costs about 8 AED.
Machboos (or Kabsa) is a fragrant rice dish cooked with spiced meat—usually chicken, lamb, or seafood. The blend of saffron, cardamom, and dried lemon gives it a signature aroma. For a refined version, book a table at Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe; expect to pay 60‑80 AED per serving.
Camel Burger might sound exotic, but it’s surprisingly approachable. The lean camel meat is grilled and served like any gourmet burger, often with a mustard‑yogurt sauce. Try it at The Farm or The Cheesecake Factory’s Dubai outlet. Prices range from 45‑55 AED.
Harees is a winter staple—slow‑cooked wheat and meat that turns into a silky porridge. It’s hearty and perfect after a day of desert safari. Mosconi’s in Jumeirah and the Emirati restaurant Qbara serve top‑notch harees for about 70 AED.
Don’t forget Arabic coffee (Gahwa). Served in tiny cups with dates, it’s the ritual that caps any meal. Coffee shops like Arabica and the Dubai Mall’s Souk Al Bahar offer the best brew. A cup costs roughly 5 AED.
These dishes cover the spectrum—from quick street eats to sit‑down specialties. Budget travelers can stick to shawarma and luqaimat for under 30 AED a day, while foodies willing to splurge will find memorable meals for 70‑100 AED each.
Finally, remember that Dubai’s food scene moves fast. New pop‑up stalls appear weekly, especially around Expo and Marina. Keep an eye on local Instagram feeds or ask hotel staff for the latest hot spots. Your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll walk away with a true sense of the city’s flavor.
Wondering what's the most famous food of Dubai? Get the lowdown on what locals and travelers crave, the stories behind these classic UAE dishes, and tips for finding the best spots to try authentic Emirati flavors.
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