While Dubai offers an array of intriguing cuisines, including Pakistani, Peruvian, Ethiopian, and Iranian, finding authentic Emirati fare has historically been more challenging. Traditionally, these dishes were primarily served in homes or during major celebrations, but this is changing with a growing number of Emirati restaurants emerging across the city.
So what exactly is Emirati cuisine? Expect hearty meat dishes originating from the desert and fresh seafood from the Arabian Peninsula, typically served with flatbreads and rice. Bezar, a blend of roasted and ground spices like coriander, cumin, turmeric, and cinnamon, is used generously. The culinary influence of historic trading partners, such as Iran and India, is evident as well. Many of the newer restaurants are also incorporating innovative fusions, offering unique treats like camel sliders and chicken tikka-stuffed breads. Here’s where to indulge in Emirati cuisine in Dubai.
Contemporary Cooking at Aseelah
At Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek, Aseelah presents an adventurous take on local cuisine featuring dishes like date-stuffed chicken roulade and juicy camel sliders. German-born chef Uwe Micheel has mastered recipes like prawns marinated in bezar and aseeda bobar (pumpkin pudding) after years of visiting Emirati families. This stylish spot is also unique as the only Emirati restaurant serving alcohol, with creative cocktails and an appealing wine list.
Authentic Flavours at Al Fanar
Al Fanar, located in Festival City Mall, embodies kitsch charm with decor and cuisine reflecting pre-oil days. Designed like an old courtyard house, the atmosphere is captivating. Essential dishes include chicken machboos (a bezar-spiced rice dish) and tender naghar mashwi (grilled squid). A second branch exists at Town Centre Jumeriah.
Home-Style Cooking at Al Tawasol
Since 1999, locals have frequented family-run Al Tawasol in Deira, enjoying traditional meals reminiscent of grandma’s cooking. Dine on a corner of carpet or in private tented majlis and savor lamb machboos and spicy saloona (curry), or try the acclaimed mandi, a slow-cooked Yemeni dish served over aromatic rice.
Camel Milk Treats at Majlis
Majlis at Dubai Mall features intricate mashrabiya (wooden lattice screens) and a blue-tiled fountain, specializing in coffee, cakes, shakes, and ice cream made from camel milk. Camel milk is lower in fat and richer in vitamins and minerals compared to cow’s milk. Enjoy a camelccino brewed from Ethiopian beans alongside a pistachio-glazed éclair made with camel milk.
Trendy Meets Traditional at Seven Sands
Located at The Beach at JBR, Seven Sands blends sleek Middle Eastern interiors with dishes that showcase both classic and innovative Emirati flavors. The menu includes well-loved favorites alongside regional offerings like smooth hummus and meat-filled kibbeh. Be sure to try sambousas – a spice-infused take on Indian samosas – and prawn fouga enhanced with bezar, saffron, and dry limes.
Creative Khameer at Logma
In the trendy BoxPark, Logma presents a modern twist on Emirati fare with funky décor and casual dining. Known for lunch, Logma offers soft khameer flatbread stuffed with options like chicken tikka or traditional cream cheese and dibs (date syrup). Don’t miss their famous fries seasoned with Middle Eastern spices.
Cultural Meals at Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding
For an immersive experience in Emirati cuisine and culture, explore the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding located within a renovated wind-tower house in the historic Al Fahidi district. Enjoy traditional dishes like chicken machboos and sweet luqaimat (doughnuts) drizzled with dibs while seated on carpets and cushions. Young Emirati volunteers host the events, encouraging visitors to engage and ask about local culture, with no topic off-limits.
Casual Bites at Milas
Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Milas is a popular spot at Dubai Mall. The café combines sleek modern décor with accessible Emirati cuisine. Enjoy cumin-sprinkled dangaw (boiled chickpeas) and warm khameer flatbread, complemented by endless cups of Arabic coffee brewed with cardamom, served with sticky dates. A highlight is the signature mbahar deyay (chicken in a spicy cream sauce with saffron-infused rice).
First published in October 2016
