What Food To Try in Dubai and Food Prices

Shakshuka - شَكشُوكَة (eggs in tomato sauce) - Poached eggs simmered in a spicy tomato and bell pepper sauce, often seasoned with cumin and served with warm bread. Locals enjoy it for breakfast or brunch, usually sharing it among friends.

Falafel Wrap - فلافل (chickpea fritters) - Crispy falafels made from ground chickpeas, wrapped in pita bread with fresh vegetables and tahini sauce. Frequently consumed as a quick street food option, it's perfect for a light lunch while on the go.

Machbos - مكبوس (spiced rice and meat) - Fragrant rice cooked with tender marinated meat, often chicken or lamb, infused with a mix of spices and sometimes served with fried onions. Commonly shared at family gatherings for lunch or dinner, it’s a favorite comfort dish.

Kushari - كشرى (rice and lentils) - A filling blend of rice, lentils, and macaroni topped with a spicy tomato sauce and crispy onions. It's a humble street food staple enjoyed for lunch, often eaten on busy weekdays.

Tabbouleh - تبولة (herb salad) - A refreshing salad made with finely chopped parsley, tomatoes, bulgur, and a bright lemon dressing. Often enjoyed as a side with larger meals or shared among friends, it’s a refreshing palate cleanser.

Al Harees - الهريس (wheat and meat dish) - A smooth, porridge-like dish made from wheat and meat, traditionally cooked for hours until pureed. Only served during Ramadan, it’s a communal dish enjoyed for iftar after a day of fasting.

Jasheed - جاشيد (fish stew) - Tender local fish cooked in a spiced broth with vegetables and chickpeas, and typically served with rice. It's best enjoyed hot from local eateries during lunch, celebrating the flavors of the sea.

Dates with Cheese - تمر مع جبنة (sweet-salty treat) - Juicy dates paired with creamy cheese, offering a surprising yet delightful combination of flavors. Enjoyed as a pre-meal snack or dessert during Ramadan gatherings, they highlight the local culinary love for fresh dates.

Karak - كرك (spiced tea) - A strong tea brewed with black tea, milk, sugar, and cardamom, served steaming hot. Locals often enjoy it throughout the day, especially during breakfast or as an afternoon pick-me-up at cozy cafes.

Jallab - جلاب (date syrup drink) - This refreshing drink combines dates, raisins, and sometimes a splash of rose water, served over ice. A favorite during Ramadan, it's commonly sipped while breaking the fast with dates and nuts—a perfect sweet indulgence after a long day of fasting.

Arabian Coffee - قهوة عربية (traditional coffee) - Made from lightly roasted Arabic coffee beans with the addition of cardamom, served in small cups. It’s common to offer it to guests as a sign of hospitality, typically accompanied by dates sold in local souks.

Baklava - بقلاوة (sweet pastry) - Thin layers of filo pastry filled with nuts and soaked in honey syrup, creating a delightful sweet pastry. Often enjoyed during special occasions or celebrations, it's best served at room temperature, and you'll find it widely available in sweet shops across the city.

Ice Cream - أيس كريم (locally-inspired flavors) - Rich and creamy, with unique flavors such as saffron and pistachio or rose water. Popular during the sweltering summer months, it's often enjoyed as a refreshing treat while strolling through the souks or at beachfront cafes.

Note: Alcohol is only available in licensed venues, which are typically attached to hotels or private clubs.