10 Emirati Dishes You Must Try When Visiting Dubai

Food

Dubai is a global culinary capital, but beyond its skyscrapers and luxury dining, lies a deeply rooted food culture waiting to be explored. Emirati Dishes is the soul of this nation.

Whether you’re a tourist exploring Old Dubai or a resident seeking authentic flavors, Arabian Tea House, a leading Emirati restaurant in Dubai, offers a true taste of Emirati heritage. Here are 10 traditional dishes you must try — and yes, you’ll find them all on our menu.

Balaleet

A favorite Emirati breakfast dish, Balaleet blends sweet and savory in perfect harmony. It’s made of vermicelli noodles flavored with saffron, cardamom, and rose water, topped with a thin, savory egg omelet.

At first, the combination may surprise you — but one bite and you’ll understand why it’s a beloved comfort food. It reflects the duality of Emirati cuisine: delicate yet hearty, simple yet profound.

tip: Pair Balaleet with a cup of traditional Karak tea for the full experience.

2. Chebab Bread

Chebab is the Emirati version of pancakes — but with a twist. Infused with saffron and turmeric, these fluffy golden discs are usually served warm with creamy cheese and sweet date syrup.

It’s a popular breakfast or snack and represents the use of local ingredients like dates and dairy. At Arabian Tea House, our Chebab Bread is handmade fresh every morning.

It’s a top choice among tourists and locals alike looking for an authentic Emirati food experience in Dubai.

3. Harees

One of the oldest traditional dishes in the UAE, Harees is a savory wheat and meat porridge slow-cooked to creamy perfection. It’s usually enjoyed during Ramadan and festive occasions.

The texture is rich and satisfying, and its simplicity belies the deep cultural value it holds. Try it with a drizzle of local ghee or a pinch of cinnamon.

Perfect for families and those looking for a light yet fulfilling Emirati meal.

4. Falafel

Though found across the Middle East, Falafel has become a key part of modern Emirati street food culture. Made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices, these golden-fried bites are crunchy outside and soft inside.

At Arabian Tea House, our falafel is served with tahini and warm bread, making it a favorite vegetarian option.

Try it as a side dish or stuffed into fresh raqaq bread for a quick snack.

5. Machboos

Machboos, sometimes called “kabsa”, is the UAE’s national rice dish. Think of it as the Emirati answer to biryani — long-grain rice cooked with meat, dried lime , and a blend of Gulf spices.

Whether you choose lamb, chicken, or fish, our version is cooked in true home-style fashion.

It’s a centerpiece of Emirati cuisine and perfect for lunch or dinner in Dubai.

6. Raqaq Bread

Raqaq is a traditional Emirati flatbread — thin, slightly crispy, and incredibly versatile. It can be eaten plain, with cheese and honey, or used to scoop up stews and dips.

We prepare our raqaq fresh in-house every day using ancestral baking techniques.

It’s one of the simplest yet most culturally rooted Emirati foods in Dubai.

7. Emirati Kebab Laham

For meat lovers, Emirati Kebab Laham is a must-try. Ground lamb seasoned with Emirati spices, skewered, and grilled over charcoal for that signature smoky flavor.

Served with Arabic bread and salad, it’s a dish that balances richness with freshness.

It’s especially popular during dinner time and at our Jumeirah Beach kiosk.

8. Tikka Chicken BBQ

Tender chicken chunks marinated in saffron, yogurt, and spices — that’s what makes Tikka Chicken BBQ irresistible. It’s part of the Emirati barbecue tradition that combines Indian influence with Bedouin technique.

Served with rice or fries, it’s a hearty, satisfying meal and a favorite among first-time diners.

Best enjoyed in our garden setting at the Al Fahidi branch.

9. Luqaimat

Luqaimat are golden fried dough balls soaked in date syrup and sprinkled with sesame seeds. Soft inside, crispy outside — they are the crown jewel of traditional Emirati desserts.

They’re often served during Ramadan but are available year-round at Arabian Tea House.

A sweet ending to any Emirati meal in Dubai.

10. Chami Cheese with Dates

This combination of soft, tangy chami cheese served with Emirati dates is the perfect balance of savory and sweet — often part of breakfast or an appetizer platter.

It’s a simple dish that showcases the elegance of traditional Emirati hospitality.

Don’t forget to try this at our Sharjah branch after exploring the heritage area.

Why Emirati Cuisine Matters in Dubai

Eating Emirati food in Dubai is not just about taste — it’s about connecting to the roots of the UAE. Every dish tells a story:

Balaleet reflects desert mornings
Machboos speaks of spice trade heritage
Luqaimat is tied to religious and family celebrations

Whether you’re visiting Dubai for the first time or rediscovering its culture, Arabian Tea House is your window into authentic Emirati cuisine.

Where to Find These Dishes

All 10 dishes are available at all our branches:

FAQs

Q1: What makes Emirati cuisine unique?

Emirati cuisine reflects the UAE’s blend of Bedouin, Indian, Persian, and East African influences, with a focus on rice, spices, dates, and grilled meats.

Q2: Are there vegetarian Emirati dishes?

Yes! Try falafel, hummus, chebab, and chami cheese with dates — all available at Arabian Tea House.

Q3: Is Emirati food spicy?

Not typically. It uses warm spices like cardamom, saffron, and cinnamon but is generally mild and aromatic.

Q4: Do I need to book in advance?

For weekends or during tourist season, booking at Al Fahidi is recommended due to high demand.

Q5: Can I try all 10 dishes in one visit?

Absolutely! We recommend ordering small portions or sharing platters to enjoy a full culinary journey.