Top 10 Must-Try Foods in the UAE: Authentic Dishes You’ll Love

Top 10 Must-Try Foods in the UAE: A Culinary Journey You Can’t Miss

Introduction to Emirati Cuisine

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is more than just glittering skyscrapers and luxurious shopping malls. Beneath its modern façade lies a rich culinary heritage that reflects its Bedouin traditions, Arabian flavors, and global influences. Emirati cuisine is a fascinating blend of slow-cooked meats, fragrant rice, aromatic spices, and sweet delights that tell the story of the desert, the sea, and the people who call this land home.

If you’re traveling to the UAE, you simply can’t leave without indulging in some of the country’s most iconic dishes. This article will take you through the Top 10 Must-Try Foods in the UAE, highlighting their cultural significance, ingredients, and best ways to enjoy them.

Why Food is Central to UAE’s Culture

Hospitality is at the heart of Emirati traditions, and food plays a central role in bringing people together. Whether it’s a feast during Ramadan, a wedding celebration, or a casual gathering, meals are always prepared with care and generosity. Dishes are often shared, symbolizing unity and community. Spices like saffron, cardamom, turmeric, and cinnamon dominate Emirati cooking, creating rich aromas that instantly make you feel at home.

1. Al Harees – The Slow-Cooked Emirati Classic

History and Significance of Al Harees

Al Harees is one of the oldest and most beloved dishes in the UAE. Made with just two main ingredients—wheat and meat—it’s a simple yet deeply satisfying dish. The mixture is slow-cooked in clay ovens for hours until it becomes a creamy porridge-like consistency.

When and How It’s Traditionally Served

Traditionally served during Ramadan, Eid, and weddings, Al Harees is considered a dish of celebration and abundance. Its slow preparation reflects patience and the Emirati way of life.

2. Al Majboos – A Fragrant Rice and Meat Delight

Ingredients and Cooking Style

Al Majboos, also known as Machboos, is a spiced rice dish usually made with chicken, lamb, or fish. The rice is infused with saffron, cinnamon, dried limes, and other spices, giving it a distinct aroma.

Modern Variations of Majboos

While traditionally cooked in large pots over open fires, modern versions are made with pressure cookers, but the flavor remains rich and authentic.

3. Shawarma – The Street Food Favorite

Why Shawarma Stands Out in the UAE

Although shawarma is popular across the Middle East, the UAE has perfected it. Wrapped in pita bread with garlic sauce, pickles, and tender meat, it’s the ultimate grab-and-go meal.

Best Places to Try Shawarma

From street stalls in old Dubai to high-end restaurants, shawarma is everywhere. Locals often debate about the “best shawarma spot,” making it a fun culinary adventure for visitors.

4. Luqaimat – Sweet Golden Dumplings

Traditional Preparation

Luqaimat are crispy golden dumplings made from flour, yeast, and sugar, deep-fried until golden brown, then drizzled with date syrup or honey.

Festivals and Occasions for Luqaimat

They are especially popular during Ramadan, when families prepare them for Iftar. The sweetness symbolizes joy and togetherness.

5. Machboos Samak – Seafood Emirati Style

Influence of the Arabian Gulf

Being a coastal nation, the UAE has a strong seafood culture. Machboos Samak is a version of the traditional Majboos made with fish.

Popular Fish Used in the Dish

Hamour (grouper) is the most common choice, but other local catches like kingfish are also used.

6. Khuzi – The Emirati National Dish

Serving Traditions of Khuzi

Khuzi is often considered the national dish of the UAE. It consists of roasted lamb served over rice with nuts, raisins, and spices.

Why Khuzi Represents Emirati Hospitality

The dish is usually presented on a large platter, encouraging everyone to share. It’s a symbol of Emirati generosity and warmth.

7. Manakish – The Middle Eastern Pizza

Flavors and Toppings Popular in the UAE

Manakish is a flatbread topped with cheese, za’atar, or minced meat, often compared to pizza. It’s a favorite breakfast and snack item across the UAE.

Where to Find Authentic Manakish

Local bakeries serve freshly baked manakish straight from stone ovens, making it an irresistible treat.

8. Balaleet – Sweet Meets Savory Breakfast

Unique Flavor Combination

Balaleet is a traditional Emirati breakfast made with sweetened vermicelli noodles flavored with cardamom and saffron, topped with a thin omelet.

How Locals Enjoy Balaleet

This dish showcases the Emirati love for balancing sweet and savory flavors in one meal.

9. Stuffed Camel – The Extravagant Dish

History and Rarity of Stuffed Camel

Stuffed camel is one of the most extravagant and rare dishes in the world. It’s often mentioned in Guinness World Records as one of the largest meals ever prepared.

Occasions When It’s Served

Traditionally, it was served at Bedouin weddings and royal gatherings, though today it’s rarely made due to its grand scale.

10. Dates and Arabic Coffee – A Timeless Tradition

Importance in Emirati Hospitality

No Emirati meal is complete without dates and Arabic coffee (gahwa). Dates symbolize hospitality, while gahwa is brewed with cardamom and saffron.

Health Benefits of Dates and Coffee

Rich in nutrients, dates provide a natural source of energy, while Arabic coffee offers antioxidants without being too strong.

Other Popular UAE Foods Worth Exploring

While the Top 10 Must-Try Foods in the UAE cover the essentials, there are plenty of other delicacies that food lovers should experience:

• Harees Al Diyafah – A spiced variation of the classic harees, served with ghee for extra richness.

• Falafel – Crispy fried chickpea patties that are a Middle Eastern favorite.

• Tabbouleh – A refreshing salad made with parsley, tomatoes, bulgur, and lemon juice.

• Hummus – Creamy chickpea dip that pairs perfectly with fresh pita bread.

• Grilled Hammour – A simple but flavorful seafood dish popular in coastal areas.

• Karak Chai – A strong, sweet tea infused with cardamom, often sold at roadside cafés.

These foods highlight the UAE’s blend of local tradition and international flavors, shaped by centuries of trade and cultural exchange.

Tips for Food Travelers in the UAE

Visiting the UAE isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s also about eating your way through its diverse cuisine. Here are some tips for food travelers:

1. Try Local Cafeterias – Some of the best shawarmas and manakish are found in small, local eateries.

2. Explore Old Dubai – The souks around Deira and Al Fahidi are packed with authentic Emirati food stalls.

3. Don’t Miss Ramadan Iftars – If you visit during Ramadan, join an Iftar buffet to experience traditional Emirati feasts.

4. Respect Local Customs – Avoid eating or drinking in public during fasting hours in Ramadan.

5. Ask for Recommendations – Locals love sharing their favorite food spots, and you’ll often discover hidden gems this way.

FAQs About Must-Try Foods in the UAE

1. What is the national dish of the UAE?

The national dish is Khuzi, a roasted lamb served with spiced rice, nuts, and raisins. It’s considered a symbol of Emirati hospitality.

2. Is Emirati food spicy?

Emirati cuisine uses spices like cardamom, saffron, and cinnamon, but it’s not overly hot. The flavors are aromatic and rich rather than fiery.

3. Can vegetarians enjoy Emirati cuisine?

Yes! Dishes like falafel, tabbouleh, hummus, and manakish with za’atar are vegetarian-friendly and widely available.

4. Where can I try authentic Emirati food in Dubai?

Visit Al Fanar Restaurant & Café, SMCCU (Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding), or small eateries in Old Dubai for authentic Emirati flavors.

5. Are street foods safe to eat in the UAE?

Yes, food hygiene is strictly regulated in the UAE. Street foods like shawarma and falafel are generally safe and very popular.

6. What sweet treats should I try besides Luqaimat?

Other Emirati desserts include Khabees (a wheat-based pudding), Aseeda (a porridge with dates), and Chebab (Emirati pancakes with date syrup).

Conclusion: Savoring the UAE’s Culinary Heritage

From slow-cooked Al Harees to the extravagant stuffed camel, the UAE’s culinary scene is a reflection of its rich heritage and modern diversity. Food is more than just a necessity here—it’s a celebration of culture, tradition, and hospitality.

Whether you’re indulging in sweet luqaimat during Ramadan, sipping Arabic coffee with dates, or sharing a generous platter of khuzi with friends, every meal in the UAE tells a story.

So, the next time you find yourself in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or any of the Emirates, make sure you explore beyond the malls and skyscrapers. Dive into the food culture, savor each bite, and discover why these Top 10 Must-Try Foods in the UAE are unforgettable.