Dubai is not just skyscrapers, shopping, and desert adventures — it’s a culinary paradise. With cultures from around the world, the dining scene ranges from traditional Emirati kitchens to Michelin-starred rooms.
Here’s what to eat in Dubai during your vacation to make the trip as delicious as it is unforgettable.
Emirati cuisine: a taste of tradition
One of the best ways to experience Dubai’s culture is through traditional Emirati dishes — rich flavours and aromatic spices passed down through generations.
Must-try Emirati dishes
- Al Harees — slow-cooked wheat and meat with a hint of ghee.
- Machboos — fragrant spiced rice with meat or seafood.
- Luqaimat — sweet dumplings drizzled with date syrup.
- Chebab — Emirati-style pancakes with date syrup and cream.
Where to try
- Al Fanar Restaurant (multiple locations) for authentic Emirati menus.
- Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding for a cultural dining experience.
Middle Eastern favourites
Dubai’s scene is heavily influenced by its Middle Eastern neighbours — shawarma, falafel, hummus, and more for casual meals and quick bites.
Must-try dishes
- Shawarma — marinated meat in soft bread with garlic and pickles.
- Manakish — flatbread with cheese, za’atar, or minced meat.
- Falafel — crispy chickpea patties in wraps or as appetisers.
- Knafeh — sweet cheesy dessert with rose syrup and pistachios.
Where to try
- Zaroob (Downtown Dubai) for Levantine street food.
- Operation Falafel for a modern twist on classics.
Seafood delights
As a coastal city, Dubai serves some of the freshest seafood in the region — from grilled fish to rich seafood stews.
Must-try seafood
- Grilled Hammour — a local favourite with spices.
- Samak Mashwi — charcoal-grilled fish with Arabic marinades.
- Seafood platter — lobster, prawns, calamari, and fish.
Where to try
- Pierchic (Jumeirah) for romantic waterside dining.
- Bu Qtair (Jumeirah Beach) for fresh, no-frills seafood.
International cuisine
Dubai’s global appeal means you can find cuisine from nearly every corner of the world — Michelin-starred restaurants to cosy cafés.
Popular options
- Indian — butter chicken, biryani, dosas.
- Italian — handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, risotto.
- Asian — sushi, Thai curries, Chinese favourites.
- American & European — steaks, brunch classics, and more.
Street food adventures
For casual, budget-friendly flavour, Dubai’s street food scene is vibrant and quick.
Must-try street food
- Shawarma stands and late-night wraps.
- Fresh juices and karak tea.
- Samosas, falafels, and bakery bites.
Desserts and sweets
End meals with Arabic sweets or international treats — from kunafa to gelato.
Luxury dining experiences
For a splurge, Dubai offers extravagant dining — in the clouds, waterside, or with skyline views that turn dinner into an event.
Fusion cuisine
Dubai is known for creative fusion that combines flavours from different cultures. Try contemporary spots like BB Social Dining in DIFC for Asian–Middle Eastern mixes in a modern setting.
Stay with Tick Vacation for a holiday home kitchen when you want to cook — and Dubai’s best restaurants when you want to explore.
