Best Local & Traditional Foods to Try in Dubai
Discover the 6 best local and traditional foods to try in Dubai. Get AI-powered recommendations for authentic dishes, traditional cuisine, and the best restaurants.
Mandi
Mandi is a traditional Emirati dish made with rice, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and a blend of spices, giving it a unique flavor. It's often served on a large platter, making it a perfect communal meal.
Ingredients
Best Time
lunch or dinner
Cultural Significance
Mandi is a staple in Emirati cuisine and often served during special occasions and gatherings.
Where to try it
Shawarma
Shawarma is a popular street food item consisting of marinated meat (usually chicken, beef, or lamb) that is slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served in a wrap or pita with garlic sauce and pickles.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Shawarma reflects the influence of Middle Eastern flavors and is a beloved snack among locals and tourists alike.
Where to try it
Al Harees
Al Harees is a traditional dish made with wheat and meat (usually chicken or lamb), cooked slowly until it reaches a porridge-like consistency. It's often served during Ramadan and special occasions.
Ingredients
Best Time
during Ramadan or celebrations
Cultural Significance
Al Harees is a symbol of hospitality and is often prepared for family gatherings and festive occasions.
Where to try it
Kunafa
Kunafa is a popular Arabic dessert made with thin noodle-like pastry soaked in syrup and layered with cheese or cream. It's sweet, sticky, and often garnished with nuts.
Ingredients
Best Time
dessert time
Cultural Significance
Kunafa is widely enjoyed during Ramadan and represents the rich tradition of Middle Eastern sweets.
Where to try it
Baklava
Baklava is a rich, sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup. It's a delightful treat often shared during celebrations.
Ingredients
Best Time
dessert time
Cultural Significance
Baklava is a traditional sweet that showcases the culinary influences of the Ottoman Empire in the region.
Where to try it
Karak Tea
Karak Tea is a spiced tea made with black tea, milk, and cardamom, often sweetened to taste. It's a beloved beverage among locals, enjoyed at any time of day.
Ingredients
Best Time
anytime
Cultural Significance
Karak Tea is a cultural icon in the UAE, often enjoyed in cafes and during gatherings.