Reflecting culinary traditions and flavours brought in through trade and migration, Dubai’s local food scene is one of the more underrated ways to explore the city’s long heritage. Here are some of the city’s most favoured Emirati treats that reveal plenty of heritage and tradition with every bite.

Machboos

A fragrant rice dish quite similar to Biryani, Machboos is cooked with plenty of saffron, dried lime and a rich blend of spices. It can feature chicken, lamb or fish and is a favourite in Emirati households.

Al Harees

This is a slow-cooked dish made of wheat, meat and salt. After several hours of cooking, it achieves a porridge-like consistency and is a very popular Ramadan dish or a meal for any festive occasion in the city.

Grilled Hammour

Hammour is a popular local fish that is usually grilled with a mix of spices or cooked in a curry-style preparation. It’s got a relatively mild flavour, which makes it a popular choice for visitors who aren’t used to higher spice levels.

Luqaimat

These golden dumplings have that perfect combination of a crispy exterior and a soft interior. They’re drizzled with date syrup, which gives them an inviting shine, and they are often enjoyed with Arabic coffee.

Tips for Enjoying Dubai Food

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Whether you’re dining at a local restaurant or at Sheikh Zayed Road Dubai hotels of the likes of Avani Ibn Battuta Dubai Hotel, it’s important to enjoy local food the right way. Start with a cup of Arabic coffee, always ask for local items on the menu, and share your meals to reflect the communal nature of Dubai’s culinary traditions.