Food in Dubai isn’t just about filling your stomach – it’s a journey. Every corner of the city has something new to offer, from old Emirati recipes to flavors brought in by expats who now call Dubai home. In 2025, the dining scene feels even more exciting, and if you’re planning a trip, here are the dishes that deserve a spot on your list.
Al Harees – Comfort in Every Bite
There’s something calming about a bowl of Al Harees. Maybe it’s the slow-cooked texture or the way the wheat blends with tender meat. It’s one of those dishes you picture families gathering around, especially during Ramadan. Tasting it feels like getting a glimpse into Dubai’s past.
Machboos – A Burst of Spice and Tradition
Machboos might remind you of biryani at first, but the dried lemon (loomi) gives it a flavor all its own. I remember the first time I tried it – the aroma hit before the plate even touched the table. Warm, spiced, and so satisfying, it’s a dish that makes you slow down and enjoy.
Shawarma – The Anytime Snack
Honestly, no trip to Dubai feels complete without grabbing a shawarma. It’s the go-to meal when you’re in a hurry or when you just want something that hits the spot. Wrapped in warm bread with garlic sauce and pickles, it’s street food at its finest.
Luqaimat – Little Drops of Happiness
These bite-sized dumplings are dangerous – once you start, it’s hard to stop. Crispy outside, soft inside, then drizzled with date syrup… it feels like dessert made to share, even if you secretly want the plate all to yourself.
Camel Meat – Something Different
For anyone curious, camel meat is worth a try. Burgers, biryani, or even slow-cooked stews – it’s not as unusual as it sounds. In fact, it’s lean and surprisingly flavorful. It feels like one of those food experiences that you’ll tell people about back home.
Fresh Seafood – Straight From the Gulf
If you love seafood, Dubai’s coastal dishes won’t disappoint. Grilled hammour with lemon and saffron is a favorite, but prawns and spiced fish curries are just as tempting. Eating by the water with fresh seafood on your plate? That’s Dubai at its best.
Karak Chai – A Cup With a Story
This isn’t just tea – it’s part of daily life here. Sweet, milky, and spiced with cardamom, Karak is the kind of drink that pulls you into the rhythm of the city. Sitting outside a small café with a hot cup in hand, you suddenly feel less like a visitor and more like a part of the scene.
Fusion Dishes – The 2025 Twist
One thing about Dubai is that it never stops reinventing itself. Lately, chefs have been playing with tradition – Emirati flavors folded into sushi, dates used in gourmet desserts, even Machboos with a fine-dining presentation. It’s fun, and it shows how food here keeps evolving.
Final Bite
Dubai isn’t just skyscrapers and shopping malls – it’s flavors that stick with you long after your trip. Whether it’s a humble shawarma at midnight or a chef’s modern twist on Al Harees, the food here tells a story of tradition, innovation, and everything in between. If you’re coming in 2025, come hungry.
