Embark on a gastronomic journey through the vibrant streets of Dubai, where every bite is a fusion of flavors, tradition, and modernity. In this guide, we unveil the culinary wonders that make Dubai a food lover's paradise. Discover the 8 best Dubai foods that should not be missed, and find out the reason why travel to Dubai is an experience for your taste buds.

Dubai's culinary kaleidoscope - A fusion of flavors

Dubai's culinary landscape is a mesmerizing kaleidoscope, blending traditional Emirati tastes with international influences.

Luqaimat - One of the best food in Dubai cuisine

When coming to Dubai and walking on the streets, visitors will surely see images of hot oil pans with small round cakes inside. The people of Dubai call this cake Luqaimat, which is a famous dish in Dubai cuisine. Regardless of rich or poor, everyone here loves this cake very much. This is one of the compelling reasons why travel to Dubai has become an irresistible urge for food enthusiasts.

The main ingredients of Luqaimat cake are flour, butter, milk, cardamom, etc. Then they are mixed together and kneaded thoroughly. Next, heat the oil and put the molded cakes in the pan. Wait until the cakes are golden brown, then take them out and just enjoy them.

Luqaimat is one of the compelling reasons why travel to Dubai has become an irresistible urge for food enthusiasts

Knafeh - A traditional Middle Eastern dessert 

Originally from Palestine, this pastry dish has become a favorite among UAE residents. It is best served right away because it is made with sour cheese, crisp sugar syrup, and dough. During Ramadan, orders for this dessert can number in the thousands per day, as people ask for it for iftar - the meal eaten by Muslims at sundown to break their fast.

Originally from Palestine, Knafeh has become a favorite among UAE residents

AI Machboos - Traditional Dubai rice

Many Dubai residents enjoy the AI Machboos rice dish. AI Machboos rice is made with the following ingredients: meat, onion, loomi (dried lemon), etc. This rice dish, in particular, must have a baharat (typical Arabic spice mix) aroma. AI Machboos rice is typically made with chicken. However, there are a few restaurants that serve lamb, shrimp, and squid. The dish is a prime example of why visit Dubai for a taste adventure through Arabian Peninsula specialties.

Many Dubai residents enjoy the AI Machboos rice dish

Manousheh - Pizza of Dubai

Manousheh is an excellent choice for adventurous taste buds, especially if you are looking for Dubai specialties. It is an excellent choice for a delectable breakfast. Stretched dough or flatbread topped with exotic ingredients such as salty Akkawi cheese, earthy zaatar herbs, and olive oil. It is widely regarded as the best street food in Dubai. Consume these alongside sweet jam and minced lamb. It is well-liked by both tourists and locals.

Manousheh is an excellent choice for adventurous taste buds

Iranian Sangak - A type of Persian naan bread

Iranian Sangak is a delectable dish that easily ranks among the best Dubai cuisine. This Iranian leavened whole wheat flatbread is served plain or in a rectangular shape. This is a popular Dubai dish that you should try! Gluten-free bread can also be made from scratch. It is especially popular among health-conscious people and foodies. The enticing variety of dishes like Iranian Sangak is just one of the compelling reasons why visit Dubai, as it promises a culinary journey that satisfies both taste buds and curiosity.

Iranian Sangak is a delectable dish that easily ranks among the best Dubai cuisine

Chelo Kebab - A saffron-infused culinary delight 

Another name on the list of mouthwatering Dubai's famous foods is Chelo Kebab. The blend of flavors in Chelo Kebab is a testament to Dubai's culinary excellence, making it a must-try for anyone seeking a true taste of the city. Let the savory allure of Chelo Kebab be a delicious reason why visit Dubai to embark on a culinary adventure.

Chelo Kebab is a delicious reason why visit Dubai to embark on a culinary adventure

Shawarma - A Global delight in Dubai's culinary scene

Exploring Dubai's cuisine unveils a culinary delight that is hard to resist. One cannot overlook the appeal of a scrumptious plate of Shawarma, a globally adored dish. With every mouthwatering bite of Shawarma, you will realize that a visit to Dubai is not solely about the sights; it is an immersive gastronomic adventure that caters to every craving.

Shawarma is a globally adored dish

Madrouba - A culinary harmony in Dubai's palate

Madrouba is a popular dish in Dubai, and it is also popular in Bahrain and Oman. Madrouba with chicken is the most well-known variation, but it is also available with fish, lamb, and crushed grains. Rice, garlic, onion, tomatoes, yogurt, and seasoning are used to make it. In moderation, butter is also used. The dish is called “madrouba” (meaning “beaten” in Arabic) because the ingredients are beaten together to form a smooth mash at the end of the recipe. This dish is suitable for people of all ages because it is easily digestible. Discovering the harmonious blend of flavors in Madrouba adds more reasons why travel to Dubai becomes a culinary expedition worth savoring.

Some notes when enjoying Dubai cuisine

Visitors should refrain from eating with their left hand. Because the people of Dubai and Muslims believe that the left hand is unclean and will offend the gods. And, during the eating process, keep in mind that you should not eat all of the food in the bowl, but should leave some because it is considered polite in Dubai. When considering cultural nuances like these, it becomes evident why visit Dubai is not just a culinary expedition but a cultural journey filled with unique customs and traditions.

Check the Islamic calendar to see if your trip conflicts with any religious holidays. Some religious holidays require the city to be dry, which means no alcohol is served. During the holy month of Ramadan, many of the city's cafés and restaurants close completely during daylight hours when Muslims fast. Especially when visiting Dubai during Ramadan, keep this in mind.

Alcohol and beer are not prohibited in Dubai, but if you want to drink, you can do so in bars, clubs, and hotels. Visitors are not permitted to consume alcoholic beverages in public places, and each person is limited to purchasing no more than four bottles of alcohol at a time.

Visitors should refrain from eating with their left hand

Dubai's diverse culinary scene reflects the city's rich culture, innovation, and global appeal. From chelo kebab to luqaimat, each dish tells a story, offering a profound answer to the question: why travel to Dubai? Let's embark on a culinary odyssey, where every flavor narrates a tale about captivating Dubai.