National Classics

• Shawarma: Rotisserie meat wrapped in flatbread, the most affordable street food, costing around 10–20 AED per serving.
• Arabic Kebab (Mashawi): A mixed grill of lamb, chicken, and beef skewers, served with flatbread and garlic sauce.
• Machboos: Spiced rice with chicken or lamb, a staple national dish.
• Hummus and Mutabbal: Classic dips served with flatbread, commonly found in almost every meal.
• Falafel: Deep-fried chickpea balls, vegetarian-friendly.

Specialties & Desserts

• Dates: A must-have for hospitality, often served with Arabic coffee (Gahwa).
• Kunafa and Baklava: Sweet Middle Eastern pastries, known for their high sugar content.
• Camel Milk and Camel Milk Chocolate: Local specialties worth trying.
• Fresh Juices and Mint Lemonade: Perfect for beating the heat.

Where to Eat

• Deira and Karama: Areas in the old town packed with South Asian and Arabic eateries, offering great value.
• Dubai Marina and Jumeirah: Sea-view restaurants and international cuisine, ideal for dinner and dates.
• Abu Dhabi Corniche: Wide selection of seafood and Lebanese dishes, with dining options overlooking the sea.

Practical Tips

• Food courts in shopping malls offer diverse, moderately priced options, suitable for quick meals and family outings.
• Old-town Arabic and South Asian eateries provide great value, with many budget-friendly spots in Deira and Karama.
• During Ramadan, most restaurants close during the day, but hotels and some malls have enclosed dining areas.
• Service charges are usually included in the bill—tipping again is not necessary. If not included, 5–10% is appropriate.
• Bottled water is the norm; tap water served at restaurants often comes at an extra charge, so it’s best to ask beforehand.
• Pork products are rare in regular restaurants, typically available only in designated areas or hotels—please check when ordering.