Embarking on a journey to Dubai and contemplating the culinary offerings awaiting you? Worry not, as Dubai’s gastronomic landscape is a harmonious fusion of Iranian, Lebanese, and Arabic cuisines, promising an experience that will undoubtedly leave you yearning for more. Whether exploring the vibrant street food scene or indulging in the offerings of its diverse restaurants, Dubai assures a delightful culinary adventure.
Irrespective of your gastronomic inclinations, the irresistible and rich flavors of Dubai’s cuisine are certain to captivate your palate. The alluring fragrance of the piquant delicacies in Dubai is guaranteed to induce a sensory delight, providing a culinary experience that is nothing short of extraordinary.
Catering to both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike, Dubai boasts an extensive array of dishes, leaving every food enthusiast pleasantly overwhelmed by the abundance of choices.
The extensive culinary repertoire of Dubai spans a broad spectrum, ensuring that even the most discerning connoisseur will find themselves spoiled for choice. Certain dishes, deeply rooted in the traditions of their respective cultures, exude a sense of familiarity, offering a taste that resonates with a feeling of home.
Here Are The list of some Local Cuisine of Dubai
| Dish | Description |
| Manousheh | Pizza Of Dubai |
| Iranian Sangak | One Of The Most Popular Dishes |
| Chelo Kebab | A Heavenly Taste |
| Al Harees | Taste The Tradition |
| Al Machboos | Surprisingly Delicious |
| Mandi | A Rendezvous With Tradition |
| Oozie | Ramadan Special |
| Tabbouleh | For Those Who Are Health Conscious |
| Kousa Mahshi | Taste The Classic Spices |
| Shirin Polo | For An Authentic Dining Experience |
| Baba Ganoush | An Epic Starter |
| Fatteh | All Things Good In One |
| Kellaj | A Cheesy Delight |
| Falafel | Prepared With Love |
| Fattoush | Healthy And Yummy |
Manousheh – A Culinary Delight in Dubai
Manousheh stands out as a gastronomic delight, particularly for those with discerning palates seeking the distinctive flavors of Dubai. This local pizza is an ideal choice for connoisseurs of fine cuisine, making it a delightful selection for a gourmet breakfast.
Crafted from meticulously stretched dough or a delectable flatbread, Manousheh features an array of exotic toppings such as the savory Akkawi cheese, earthy zaatar herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil. Recognized as a quintessential street food in Dubai, it has gained acclaim among both locals and tourists alike.
For an unparalleled culinary experience, indulge in the variant adorned with creamy sour labneh, sweet jam, eggs, and minced lamb. This particular combination elevates the gastronomic journey to new heights.
Manousheh’s popularity transcends its local origins, with its reputation extending beyond Dubai’s borders. It has become synonymous with the best of Dubai’s street food scene. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a local resident, Manousheh promises a memorable dining experience.
Must-Try Recommendation: Indulge in the variant featuring creamy sour labneh, sweet jam, eggs, and minced lamb.
Price Range: Starting from INR 750, the culinary experience offered by Manousheh is a testament to the exquisite flavors and cultural richness of Dubai.
Iranian Sangak
Embark on a sensory journey through the vibrant streets of Dubai, where the alluring scent of freshly baked Iranian Sangak captivates the senses. Renowned as one of the quintessential dishes in Dubai’s culinary landscape, Iranian Sangak, a leavened flatbread crafted from whole wheat, is presented in a plain or rectangular format. Whether savored in its traditional form or as a gluten-free creation, this bread stands as a favorite among health enthusiasts and epicureans alike.
Must-Try Recommendation: Elevate your gastronomic experience by savoring Iranian Sangak paired with basil and Bulgarian feta.
Price Range: Starting from INR 360 onwards
Chelo Kebab – Indulge in Culinary Bliss
For connoisseurs of kebabs, the exquisite flavors of Chelo Kebab beckon. This delectable dish features aromatic saffron-infused basmati rice complemented by succulent kebabs, adorned with a pat of butter. Celebrated as a culinary gem among Dubai’s famed dishes, Chelo Kebab promises an extraordinary gastronomic journey, offering a taste that is both heavenly and exceptionally delightful.
Must-Try Recommendation: Experience the divine combination of Chelo Kebab spiked with sour zereshk berries or fragrant dill.
Price Range: Starting from INR 500 onwards
Al Harees – Embrace Tradition Through Taste
Immerse yourself in the celebration of perfectly blended wheat, meat, and butter with Al Harees. This remarkable dish, created through meticulous baking and the fusion of essential ingredients, holds a revered place in Dubai’s traditional culinary repertoire. Often enjoyed during special occasions such as Ramadan, Eid, and weddings, Al Harees reflects the warmth and hospitality of Dubai’s locals, making it a must-try among the city’s culinary offerings.
Must-Try Recommendation: Savor Al Harees with samen (butter) and powdered cinnamon, or add a touch of sweetness by serving it with sugar.
Price Range: Starting from INR 800 onwards
Al Machboos – A Culinary Surprise Awaits
Al Machboos, an irresistible blend of spices, meat, and rice, stands out as a surprisingly delicious culinary creation. Simple yet packed with zestful flavors, this dish, comprising rice, onions, and meat seasoned with spices, salt, and dried lemon, has earned its place among the most famous foods in Dubai. Accompany it with their refreshing salad and yogurt raita for a heavenly dining experience.
Must-Try Recommendation: Enhance your Al Machboos experience with the authentic pairing of salad and yogurt raita.
Price Range: Starting from INR 500 onwards
Mandi – A Tradition on a Plate
Delve into tradition with Mandi, a popular dish in Dubai known for its distinctive preparation. Featuring a harmonious blend of rice, meat, and spices, Mandi is a culinary delight that showcases the rich heritage of Dubai’s cuisine. Prepared through a meticulous cooking process, the dish is a testament to the city’s commitment to preserving culinary traditions.
Must-Try Recommendation: Explore the rich flavors of Mandi, especially the chicken dishes.
Price Range: Starting from INR 350 onwards
Oozie – A Ramadan Special Delicacy
Celebrate the culinary richness of Dubai with Oozie, a special dish often associated with weddings and Ramadan. Crafted with care, this dish features rice, usually served with chicken or skillfully filled into pockets. Elevate your Oozie experience by pairing it with yogurt or nuts, creating a soul-soothing culinary encounter. For those visiting during Ramadan, Oozie stands out as a must-try delicacy.
Must-Try Recommendation: Immerse yourself in the flavors of Oozie during your visit, especially during Ramadan.
Price Range: Check once in Dubai
Vegetarian Delights in Dubai Cuisine
Contrary to common beliefs, Dubai offers a plethora of vegetarian-friendly options. Indulge in the best of vegetarian Dubai cuisine with these enticing dishes.
Tabbouleh – A Fresh and Zesty Delight
For those with a penchant for health-conscious choices, Tabbouleh stands as a vegetarian delight. This fresh salad, featuring tomatoes, green onions, and cucumber, is seasoned with fresh mint and lime juice. Tabbouleh is a standout choice for food enthusiasts seeking healthier options in Dubai, with variations such as blueberry and corn adding to its appeal.
Must-Try Recommendation: Explore the flavorful variations of Tabbouleh, including the version with stuffed grape leaves flavored with blueberry and corn.
Price Range: Starting from INR 500 onwards
Indulge in the Timeless Flavors of Kousa Mahshi
Savor the exquisite blend of stuffed courgettes or zucchini, meticulously infused with classic spices. Kousa Mahshi stands as a culinary masterpiece among Dubai’s finest offerings, celebrated as a main course featuring courgettes or zucchini generously filled with aromatic rice. Garnering accolades and earning its place as a ‘Dubai special food,’ this dish has garnered enthusiastic praise, with one diner proclaiming it to be the best worldwide. Immerse yourself in the unparalleled taste of Kousa Mahshi—a culinary imperative for those exploring the vibrant gastronomic scene in Dubai.
Recommended Pairing: Elevate your dining experience with Lebanese wine
Price Range: Starting from INR 250
Shirin Polo – An Authentic Culinary Delight
Embark on a gastronomic journey with Shirin Polo, a symphony of flavors that elevates rice to unparalleled heights. Immerse yourself in the tantalizing aroma and sublime sweetness of this culinary gem, featuring basmati rice adorned with carrots, currants, raisins, chicken, and nuts. Renowned for its thick, crispy tahdig crust and delectable sweet garnishes, Shirin Polo is a must-try for those seeking an authentic taste of Dubai. Whether you opt for the vegetarian variant or not, rest assured that your dining experience will be nothing short of exceptional, making it a pivotal dish in Dubai’s culinary landscape.
Recommended Pairing: Delight your palate with barberries and pistachio ice cream
Price Range: Starting from INR 500
Baba Ganoush – A Pinnacle of Epicurean Starters
Embark on your culinary journey with Baba Ganoush, a perfectly seasoned appetizer designed to appease every discerning palate. Crafted from smoked eggplant, blended with onions, tomatoes, and olive oil, this Levantine dish has secured its place among the best foods in Dubai. Your gastronomic exploration is incomplete without savoring this epic starter, and if you find yourself in search of this delectable delight, the locals are eager to guide you to establishments that proudly feature it on their menu. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in this Dubai special food during your vacation.
Recommended Pairing: Enjoy with crisp vegetables and sliced bread
Price Range: Inquire locally in Dubai
Fatteh – Culinary Harmony in Every Layer
Experience culinary bliss with Fatteh, a harmonious ensemble of exhilarating flavors presented in three layers. The foundation comprises bread soaked in stock, followed by a middle layer featuring chickpeas and stuffed aubergines, and finally, a topping of yogurt and tahini sauce. Ideal for an early evening repast, Fatteh is a gastronomic delight and a quintessential dish among Dubai’s culinary treasures. Elevate your experience by pairing it with paprika and pine nuts, readily available in some of the finest restaurants in the U.A.E.
Recommended Pairing: Garnish with parsley, roasted pine nuts, and paprika
Price Range: Starting from INR 100
Kellaj – A Gourmet Journey with Cheese
Embark on a gourmet journey with Kellaj, a cheesy delight encased in bread and grilled to perfection over charcoal. Recognized as a must-try food in Dubai, Kellaj features a filling of halloumi cheese that promises to satiate the small hunger monster within. A long standing favorite among Dubai foods, this dish epitomizes the culinary excellence the city has to offer.
Recommended Pairing: Served hot with powdered sugar
Price Range: Inquire locally in Dubai
Falafel – Crafted with Precision and Love
Immerse yourself in the heavenly experience of Falafel, a meticulously crafted deep-fried ball or patty made from ground chickpeas or fava beans. As one of Dubai’s famed foods, Falafel offers a delightful gastronomic experience that pairs well with various bread options. Ensure a personalized experience by consulting with the waiter about the specific ingredients used, and relish this must-try Dubai food that promises to be a memorable encounter.
Recommended Pairing: Accompany with baba ganoush or hummus and pita
Price Range: Starting from INR 200
Fattoush – Where Health Meets Palate Pleasure
Delight in the freshness of vegetables and an exquisite dressing with Fattoush, a salad that seamlessly combines health and taste. A Levantine bread salad featuring toasted or fried pieces of pita bread, Fattoush stands tall among Dubai’s famous foods, offering a delicious yet healthy option. Revel in the delightful taste of this toasted dish, making it a favored choice among Asians exploring the culinary wonders of Dubai.
Recommended Pairing: Enhance with mixed greens and a tangy lemon dressing
Price Range: Starting from INR 1000
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dubai’s culinary scene presents an extraordinary blend of traditional flavors and modern twists, ensuring a gastronomic journey that is nothing short of exceptional. From the bustling street food scene to the diverse offerings of its restaurants, Dubai caters to every palate, offering a delightful culinary adventure for locals and tourists alike.
In every bite, Dubai’s culinary scene reflects the city’s dedication to preserving tradition while embracing innovation. So, whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, Dubai’s local cuisine promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you yearning for more. Pack your appetite and embark on a culinary adventure in the heart of this vibrant city. Dubai awaits, ready to tantalize your taste buds with a symphony of flavors.
