The United Arab Emirates combines futuristic cities with ancient desert traditions, offering world-class luxury, innovative architecture, and rich cultural heritage. From Dubai's soaring Burj Khalifa to Abu Dhabi's stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the UAE delivers unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
The UAE is one of the world's great multicultural dining destinations with over 200 nationalities represented in Dubai and Abu Dhabi's restaurant scenes. Emirati cuisine itself features Arabic spice blends, slow-cooked meats, fragrant rice dishes, and seafood reflecting the pearl-diving heritage. The country also has world-class Indian, Pakistani, Lebanese, Persian, and Western cuisine at every price point.
Must-try dishes
Iconic dishes that define United Arab Emirates.
Machboos
The UAE's national dish - fragrant rice slow-cooked with lamb or chicken, dried limes (loomi), and a complex spice blend that includes cardamom, cinnamon, and rose water. Similar to biryani but with distinct Gulf flavors.
Where to try: Al Fanar Restaurant, Logma, Emirati home cooking experiences
Price: $15-25
Harees
A traditional comfort food of wheat and slow-cooked meat blended to a porridge consistency. Served during Ramadan and celebrations, it is considered a dish that connects modern Emiratis to their ancestors.
Where to try: Al Fanar Restaurant, Bu Qtair (occasional), Ramadan tent menus
Price: $10-20
Luqaimat
Crispy fried dumplings drizzled with date syrup and sesame seeds - the UAE's most beloved sweet street food. Vendors cook them fresh to order at markets and street stalls throughout the country.
Where to try: Spice Souk, Global Village, traditional market stalls
Price: $3-8
Shawarma
UAE's most popular street food - spiced chicken or lamb carved from a vertical rotisserie into flatbread with garlic sauce, pickles, and vegetables. Every corner in Deira and Satwa has a shawarma spot.
Where to try: Al Mallah (Satwa), Operation Falafel, any Lebanese shawarma shop
Price: $2-5
Camel Milk Ice Cream
A uniquely Emirati experience - camel milk has a naturally lower fat content than cow's milk and creates ice cream with distinctive subtle flavor. Available at Camelicious kiosks and several dessert shops.
Where to try: Camelicious kiosks, Global Village UAE pavilion, specialty shops
Price: $5-10
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
Nobu Dubai
Celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa's acclaimed restaurant at Atlantis The Palm offers innovative Japanese-Peruvian cuisine with ocean views. Signature dishes include black cod miso and yellowtail jalapeño.
Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
3Fils
A trendy waterfront restaurant at Jumeirah Fishing Harbour offering innovative Asian fusion dishes. The casual venue gained international recognition for creative flavors and relaxed atmosphere.
Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, Dubai
Operation Falafel
A popular casual chain serving fresh falafel, shawarma, and Middle Eastern street food. The modern take on traditional flavors appeals to health-conscious diners.
Multiple Locations, Dubai
Al Reef Bakery
A beloved Lebanese bakery chain offering fresh manakish, pastries, and sweets. The affordable prices and quality make it a local favorite.
Multiple Locations, Dubai
Arabian Tea House
A heritage cafe in Al Fahidi serving traditional Emirati breakfast and afternoon tea. The courtyard setting offers authentic atmosphere in historic Dubai.
Al Fahidi Historical District, Dubai
Pierchic
A romantic overwater restaurant at the end of a pier offering fresh seafood and stunning Burj Al Arab views. The intimate venue is perfect for special occasions with impeccable service.
Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai
TOTÓ
A charming Italian restaurant backed by Rafael Nadal and Cristiano Ronaldo serving traditional flavors on Saadiyat Island. The venue offers authentic pasta, pizza, and Italian classics.
Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi
Zaroob
A vibrant street food restaurant celebrating Levantine flavors in a retro setting. The casual venue offers manakish, saj wraps, and traditional sweets.
Multiple Locations, Dubai
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
Japanese
Strawfire by Ross Shonhan
Abu Dhabi's most exciting restaurant opening features ancient Japanese warayaki straw-fire cooking at Emirates Palace. Chef Ross Shonhan delivers innovative techniques and exceptional flavors.
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi
% Arabica
A minimalist Japanese coffee chain offering single-origin beans and expert brewing. The sleek venues focus on quality espresso and pour-over coffee.
Multiple Locations, Dubai
Tomo
An elegant Japanese restaurant at Raffles Dubai offering sushi, teppanyaki, and robata. The sophisticated venue features multiple dining experiences under one roof.
Raffles Dubai, Wafi, Dubai
Zuma Dubai
A sophisticated izakaya-style restaurant in DIFC offering contemporary Japanese cuisine with robata grill specialties. The vibrant venue features three distinct kitchens and dynamic atmosphere.
Gate Village, DIFC, Dubai
Goldfish
Michelin-lauded chef Akmal Anuar's restaurant at Marina Mall offers quintessential Japanese flavors with exceptional technique. Signature dishes include ebi fry, Wagyu tsukune, and tori ramen.
Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi
Seafood
Al Mahara
An underwater restaurant at Burj Al Arab featuring floor-to-ceiling aquarium views and exceptional seafood. The opulent setting offers one of Dubai's most exclusive dining experiences.
Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Street, Dubai
Nathan Outlaw at Al Mahara
Michelin-starred chef Nathan Outlaw's restaurant at Burj Al Arab focuses on sustainable British seafood with innovative preparations. The underwater setting enhances the aquatic dining experience.
Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Street, Dubai
Bu Qtair
A legendary no-frills seafood shack offering fresh catch fried to order. The basic setup belies exceptional flavors that keep locals and visitors returning.
Umm Suqeim, Dubai
Crab
A seafood specialist at Souk Madinat focusing on fresh crab preparations and shellfish. The waterfront venue offers canal views and extensive seafood menu.
Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai
French
La Petite Maison
A beloved Dubai institution serving French Riviera cuisine in DIFC. The lively restaurant features market-fresh ingredients and signature Niçoise dishes.
Gate Village, DIFC, Dubai
Bord Eau by Nicolas Isnard
Celebrity chef Nicolas Isnard brings fine-dining French flavors to Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri with dishes inspired by his global travels. The elegant venue overlooks the Grand Mosque.
Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi
LPM Restaurant & Bar Abu Dhabi
A tribute to Niçoise cuisine highlighting Mediterranean influences from France and Italy. The elegant venue at The Galleria offers sophisticated French Riviera dining.
The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Indian
Delhi Darbar
A popular Indian restaurant chain offering North Indian curries and tandoor dishes. The casual venues provide authentic flavors at reasonable prices.
Multiple Locations, Dubai
Punjab Grill
An upscale Indian restaurant offering contemporary takes on Punjabi cuisine. The elegant venue serves flavorful tandoor dishes and rich curries.
Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai
Tresind Studio
An innovative tasting menu restaurant offering modern interpretations of Indian cuisine. The intimate 20-seat venue delivers theatrical presentations and exceptional flavors.
Voco Hotel, Al Barsha, Dubai
Burgers
Salt
A trendy beach burger joint started as a food truck offering gourmet sliders and loaded fries. The casual beachfront locations provide laid-back dining.
Kite Beach, Jumeirah, Dubai
Pickl
A homegrown burger brand offering smash patties, crispy fries, and loaded shakes. The casual chain delivers quality fast food with local pride.
Multiple Locations, Dubai
European
Saffron Cafe
An elegant cafe at Atlantis The Palm offering gourmet coffee and pastries. The sophisticated venue provides views of the hotel's impressive atrium.
Atlantis The Palm, Dubai
Folly
A trendy restaurant at Madinat Jumeirah offering European cuisine with Dubai Marina views. The stylish venue features creative dishes and vibrant atmosphere.
Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai
Healthy Cafe
Wild & The Moon
A plant-based cafe offering organic juices, smoothie bowls, and vegan dishes. The health-focused venue attracts wellness-minded diners.
Multiple Locations, Dubai
Comptoir 102
A trendy concept store and cafe in Jumeirah offering organic, healthy dishes in a bohemian setting. The venue combines shopping with wholesome dining.
Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai
International Cafe
Common Grounds
A popular cafe chain offering all-day breakfast, specialty coffee, and healthy options. Multiple locations provide consistent quality casual dining.
Multiple Locations, Dubai
Dome Cafe
An Australian-inspired cafe chain offering all-day breakfast, salads, and gourmet coffee. Multiple locations provide consistent quality casual dining.
Multiple Locations, Dubai
Mediterranean
Fish Beach Taverna
A beachfront restaurant at Le Meridien Mina Seyahi offering fresh seafood and Greek-inspired dishes. The casual venue provides relaxed dining with beach views.
Le Meridien Mina Seyahi, Dubai Marina
Cafe Bateel
An upscale cafe chain offering gourmet Mediterranean cuisine featuring organic dates and premium ingredients. Multiple locations provide elegant casual dining.
Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai
Middle Eastern
Shawarma Station
A late-night shawarma spot in Karama serving generous portions at budget prices. The no-frills setup focuses on fresh wraps and grilled meats.
Karama, Dubai
Firas Sweets
A popular sweets shop in Karama offering traditional Arabic desserts and pastries. The affordable treats include baklava, kunafa, and maamoul.
Karama, Dubai
Pakistani
Karachi Darbar
A longtime Pakistani chain serving biryani, karahi, and grilled meats. The multiple locations offer consistent budget-friendly South Asian food.
Multiple Locations, Dubai
Ravi Restaurant
A legendary budget Pakistani restaurant serving authentic curries and breads since 1978. The no-frills venue is beloved by locals and expats for flavorful food.
Al Satwa, Dubai
Thai
Pai Thai
An authentic Thai restaurant at Madinat Jumeirah accessible by abra boat. The romantic venue offers traditional recipes and waterway views in an atmospheric setting.
Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai
Bangkok Palace
A budget Thai restaurant in Karama serving authentic curries, stir-fries, and noodles. The simple venue delivers genuine Thai flavors at low prices.
Karama, Dubai
Arabic Sweets
Al Samadi Sweets
A traditional sweet shop offering fresh Arabic desserts and pastries. The family-run business serves authentic flavors at fair prices.
Al Satwa, Dubai
Australian Cafe
Tom & Serg
A trendy industrial-chic cafe in Al Quoz serving specialty coffee and brunch favorites. The hip venue attracts creative professionals and coffee enthusiasts.
Al Quoz, Dubai
Brasserie
Brass
A sophisticated all-day cafe at Souk Al Bahar offering European cuisine with fountain views. The elegant venue serves breakfast through dinner.
Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai
Cafe
The Lime Tree Cafe
A beloved neighborhood cafe in Jumeirah serving fresh salads, sandwiches, and homemade cakes. The cozy venue offers healthy options and excellent coffee.
Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai
Chinese
Hot Pot Restaurant
A budget-friendly Chinese hot pot spot in Deira offering all-you-can-eat options. The casual venue is popular with Asian expat communities.
Deira, Dubai
Dessert Cafe
BRIX Desserts
A dessert-focused cafe offering artisan ice cream, waffles, and sweet treats. The trendy venue specializes in Instagram-worthy creations.
City Walk, Dubai
Emirati
Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe
An authentic Emirati restaurant celebrating local heritage and traditional cuisine. The venue offers home-style dishes in a nostalgic setting reminiscent of 1960s Dubai.
Festival City Mall, Dubai
Emirati Cafe
Logma
A modern Emirati cafe offering traditional dishes with contemporary presentation. The venue celebrates local flavors including karak chai and luqaimat.
Multiple Locations, Dubai
Gourmet Cafe
Jones the Grocer
An upscale cafe and deli offering artisan products, cheese, and gourmet meals. The multiple locations combine marketplace with restaurant.
Multiple Locations, Dubai
International
At.mosphere
The world's highest restaurant on the 122nd floor of Burj Khalifa offers stunning views with sophisticated international cuisine. The exclusive venue provides an unforgettable dining experience.
Level 122, Burj Khalifa, Dubai
Iranian
Hatam
A popular Iranian restaurant chain offering kebabs, stews, and Persian rice dishes. The casual venues provide authentic flavors at reasonable prices.
Multiple Locations, Dubai
Lebanese
Al Mallah
A longtime favorite shawarma and juice spot in Al Dhiyafah serving fresh Lebanese street food. The outdoor seating and late hours make it perfect for casual meals.
Al Dhiyafah Road, Dubai
Modern Asian
NIRI Restaurant & Bar
FACT's Restaurant of the Year 2023, 2024, and 2025 offers innovative modern Asian cuisine in Abu Dhabi. The stylish venue delivers exceptional flavors and impeccable service.
Yas Bay, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Peruvian
Coya Dubai
A vibrant Peruvian restaurant in Four Seasons DIFC offering ceviche, anticuchos, and pisco cocktails. The lively venue features live music and energetic atmosphere.
Four Seasons DIFC, Dubai
Specialty Coffee
Cassette
An independent specialty coffee roastery and cafe in Al Quoz. The industrial space attracts coffee aficionados seeking quality beans and expert brewing.
Al Quoz, Dubai
Steakhouse
Butcher & Still
Highly regarded among steak connoisseurs in Abu Dhabi for exceptional meat quality and preparation. The modern steakhouse delivers premium cuts with excellent sides.
Four Seasons Hotel, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Syrian
Aroos Damascus
An authentic Syrian restaurant in Deira offering traditional dishes like fattoush and grilled meats. The casual venue serves generous portions at budget prices.
Al Rigga, Deira, Dubai
Turkish
Turkish Village
An authentic Turkish restaurant in Karama offering kebabs, pide, and mezze. The casual venue serves generous portions of flavorful Turkish classics.
Karama, Dubai
Food tours & tastings in United Arab Emirates
Eat your way through United Arab Emirates with a guide.
Browse food experiences in United Arab EmiratesWe may earn a commission from bookings made through these links.
Street food
Local flavours at affordable prices.
Shawarma (chicken or lamb)
The UAE's unofficial national street food, consumed by millions daily. Al Mallah in Satwa serves Dubai's most iconic version until 3am.
Find it at: Al Mallah (Satwa), shawarma stalls throughout Deira and Bur Dubai
Biryani (Indian/Pakistani)
Rich spiced rice with chicken or lamb from the UAE's large South Asian community. Ravi Restaurant in Satwa serves some of the best value biryani in the country.
Find it at: Karama, Satwa, Al Nahda neighborhoods, Indian/Pakistani restaurants citywide
Manousheh (Lebanese flatbread)
Fresh baked flatbread topped with zaatar and olive oil or cheese, the Lebanese breakfast staple available at bakeries from 6am. Excellent for a quick cheap breakfast.
Find it at: Lebanese bakeries throughout Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Karak Chai (spiced milk tea)
Strong sweet tea brewed with cardamom, cinnamon, and condensed milk served from roadside trucks for AED 1-3. A UAE street institution not to be missed.
Find it at: Roadside karak trucks citywide, especially Deira and Satwa
Al Harees (weekend special)
Traditional wheat and meat porridge cooked overnight, available from Emirati restaurants on weekend mornings. A rare street food with deep cultural roots.
Find it at: Al Fanar Restaurant, Emirati market vendors on weekends
Food markets
Where locals shop and graze.
Dubai Spice Souk
Fragrant covered market with sacks of saffron, cardamom, dried limes, frankincense, and spice blends from Iran, India, and East Africa. Best prices for saffron in the world.
Hours: Sat-Thu 9AM-10PM, Fri 4PM-10PM
Abu Dhabi Central Market (Al Mina)
Abu Dhabi's traditional food market area featuring the exceptional Fish Market, Meat Market, and Vegetable Market. The 5am fish market is a spectacular culinary experience.
Hours: Fish Market 5AM-2PM daily; other sections 7AM-8PM
Dubai Fish Market (Deira)
The bustling Dubai fish market near Hamriya Port sells fresh Gulf seafood including hammour (grouper), shrimp, king fish, and squid. Arrive before 8am for the freshest selection.
Hours: Daily 6AM-12PM, reopen 4PM-9PM
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
Lunch is the main business meal in UAE - many top restaurants offer excellent value set lunches at AED 70-120 versus AED 200+ at dinner
Restaurants in Dubai and Abu Dhabi malls are licensed and open on Fridays, but hours shift during Ramadan
Large Arabic meals traditionally involve sharing - order multiple mezze dishes rather than individual starters and mains
Service charge (5-10%) is often added to bills automatically; additional tips appreciated for exceptional service
Emirati cuisine is genuinely hard to find - seek out Al Fanar, Logma, and Loca for authentic local food beyond tourist-facing menus
- Vegetarian
- Excellent options in Indian and Lebanese restaurants. Emirati cuisine often meat-heavy but Lebanese mezze is naturally vegetarian-friendly.
- Vegan
- Growing vegan scene in Dubai. Comptoir 102, Bounty Beets, and Life'n One specialize in plant-based food.
- Halal
- UAE is almost entirely halal. Non-halal meat is served at licensed venues in hotels only.
- Alcohol
- Alcohol served only at licensed venues (hotels and clubs). Restaurants in malls generally do not serve alcohol.
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $5-15/meal | Street food shawarma, biryani, karak tea, Indian/Pakistani restaurants |
| Mid-range | $25-60/meal | Lebanese, Asian, casual dining restaurants in hotels and malls |
| Upscale | $100-300+/meal | Fine dining, celebrity chef restaurants, hotel restaurants with views |