Dubai is a paradise for food lovers, offering a mix of traditional Emirati flavors, Middle Eastern delicacies, and international street food. From sizzling kebabs to sweet, sticky treats, here are the must-try street foods when exploring the vibrant streets of Dubai!
🌯 1. Shawarma – The Ultimate Street Food
A Middle Eastern classic, shawarma is a must-try when in Dubai! It’s made with slow-roasted meat (chicken, beef, or lamb) wrapped in Arabic bread and filled with garlic sauce, pickles, and veggies.
🔥 Where to Try: Al Mallah, Shawarma Station, Eat & Drink
🥙 2. Falafel – The Perfect Crispy Bite
These deep-fried chickpea balls are crispy on the outside, soft inside, and packed with flavor. Served in pita bread with tahini sauce, they’re a great vegetarian option!
🔥 Where to Try: Operation Falafel, Zaroob, Sultan Dubai Falafel
🍢 3. Al Machboos – The Emirati Biryani
A traditional Emirati rice dish with spiced chicken, lamb, or shrimp, Al Machboos is similar to biryani but with a local twist of dried lime and Middle Eastern spices.
🔥 Where to Try: Local Emirati restaurants or street stalls in Old Dubai
🍡 4. Luqaimat – The Sweetest Treat
Dubai’s version of donut holes, these crispy, golden dumplings are drizzled with date syrup and sesame seeds—sweet, crunchy, and absolutely delicious!
🔥 Where to Try: Arabic dessert stalls, Al Fanar, Local Emirati cafes
🥖 5. Manakish – The Middle Eastern Pizza
This Lebanese-style flatbread is topped with cheese, za’atar (thyme and sesame mix), or minced meat—perfect for a quick, cheesy snack on the go!
🔥 Where to Try: Manoushe Street, Zaroob, Al Reef Bakery
🍢 6. Samboosa – The Arabic Samosa
Similar to Indian samosas, but with a Middle Eastern twist—these crispy triangular pastries are stuffed with spiced meat, cheese, or lentils and fried to perfection!
🔥 Where to Try: Street food vendors, Al Mallah, Ravi Restaurant
🧀 7. Cheese or Nutella Rigag – Emirati Crepes
A traditional thin Emirati crepe, often filled with cheese, Nutella, or eggs, then folded and grilled to crispy perfection. A must-try for breakfast or dessert!
🔥 Where to Try: Street stalls in Old Dubai, Global Village
🍢 8. Grilled Kebabs & Kofta – Juicy & Flavorful
Delicious skewered meats (chicken, lamb, or beef) grilled over charcoal and served with garlic sauce and fresh Arabic bread.
🔥 Where to Try: Al Ustad Special Kabab, Al Mallah, Afghan Kebab House
🍋 9. Karak Chai – Dubai’s Famous Tea
A strong, spiced milk tea made with cardamom and saffron—perfect for sipping alongside your street food finds!
🔥 Where to Try: Any local chai café, Filli Café, Tea Junction
🍨 10. Arabic Ice Cream (Booza) – Stretchy & Creamy
This unique ice cream is chewy, stretchy, and flavored with rose, pistachio, and saffron—unlike any ice cream you’ve ever had!
🔥 Where to Try: Farooj Al Shami, Al Samadi Sweets, Local markets
🎯 Final Thoughts: A Foodie’s Paradise!
Dubai’s street food is a mix of rich flavors, cultures, and textures—perfect for every foodie traveler! Whether you’re indulging in shawarma, falafel, or sweet luqaimat, your taste buds will thank you!
