United Arab Emirates · tool
Dubai food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Dubai.
Photo by Tetiana Shevereva on Unsplash
What to eat in Dubai
5 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Al Harees
$8–$15
A rich, sweet porridge made from wheat, rice, sugar, and milk, often slow-cooked for hours and topped with nuts. It's a traditional Emirati comfort food, especially popular during Ramadan.
Where to try: Local Emirati restaurants like Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe in Dubai Festival City.
Luqaimat
$5–$10
Sweet, deep-fried dumplings, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, drizzled generously with date syrup. These bite-sized treats are an essential part of Emirati celebrations and gatherings.
Where to try: Street food stalls and Ramadan tents across the city, or at Arabian Tea House.
Machboos Laham
$15–$30
A fragrant rice dish cooked with tender lamb or chicken, infused with a complex blend of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. It's a hearty and flavorful centerpiece of Emirati cuisine.
Where to try: Smoky Broz in Deira for an authentic taste, or many hotel buffets.
Shawarma
$3–$7
Thinly sliced, seasoned meat (chicken or lamb) grilled on a vertical rotisserie, served wrapped in flatbread with tahini, pickles, and sometimes garlic sauce. A ubiquitous and delicious quick meal.
Where to try: Al Mallah in Al Dhiyafah Street, a local institution.
Thareed
$12–$25
A comforting stew made with lamb or chicken and vegetables, served with pieces of thin, crispy bread that soak up the flavorful broth. It's a traditional dish that showcases the use of local ingredients.
Where to try: Siraj Restaurant in The Dubai Mall, offering a modern take on Emirati classics.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (Bastakiya)
Historic charm meets traditional Emirati eateries and art cafes.
Traditional Emirati FoodCultural ImmersionCasual Dining
Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)
Bustling beachfront promenade with a huge variety of international and local casual dining options.
Street FoodInternational CuisineAl Fresco Dining
Downtown Dubai
Sleek, modern, and upscale, home to celebrity-chef restaurants and fine dining with stunning views.
Fine DiningInternational CuisineViews
Deira
Authentic, bustling, and diverse, offering some of the most traditional and affordable food experiences.
Indian & Pakistani FoodMiddle Eastern Street FoodBudget Eats
Dietary notes
Dubai is incredibly diverse, offering options for most dietary needs. While traditional Emirati cuisine can be meat-heavy, vegetarian and vegan dishes are readily available, especially in Indian, Pakistani, and international restaurants. Many places can accommodate gluten-free requests.
Local etiquette
- •When accepting or offering anything, use your right hand only.
- •Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or traditional neighborhoods; shoulders and knees should be covered.
- •Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service, usually around 10-15% in restaurants if a service charge isn't already included.
- •Public displays of affection should be avoided.
- •Book tickets for major attractions like the Museum of the Future and Burj Khalifa well in advance, as they sell out quickly.
Plan the rest of your Dubai trip
Food guides elsewhere