Food in United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates, a diverse and vibrant federation, beckons travelers with its soaring skyscrapers, opulent shopping malls, and sprawling deserts. But beyond the glitz and glamour lies a lesser-known treasure: its rich and flavorful cuisine. A true melting pot of flavors, the UAE's culinary scene reflects a blend of Arabian, Persian, and South Asian influences, offering an indulgent journey for the palate. Whether you're savoring succulent kebabs, aromatic biryanis, or sweet, sticky dates, the food in the UAE tells the story of a region at the crossroads of cultures. Join us as we explore the traditional dishes and modern culinary delights that await the average tourist in the United Arab Emirates.

Emirati Dishes

Harees

Harees is a traditional Emirati dish that is particularly popular during the month of Ramadan and at weddings. It is a simple, yet hearty dish made with wheat and meat (usually chicken or lamb), which is slow-cooked in a clay pot for several hours until it reaches a porridge-like consistency. Seasoned with salt, it is often garnished with ghee (clarified butter) before serving.

Machboos

Often considered the national dish of the UAE, Machboos is a fragrant rice dish similar to Indian biryani. It is made with long-grain rice, spices such as saffron, cardamom, and cinnamon, and typically features chicken, lamb, or fish. The meat is marinated with a spice blend called bezar, which gives the dish a distinctive flavor. Machboos is usually served with a side of salad or yogurt.

Al Harees

Al Harees is another beloved traditional Emirati dish, especially during Ramadan and Eid festivals. Similar to Harees but distinct in preparation, it is made with wheat, meat, and a pinch of salt. The ingredients are cooked in a clay pot for many hours until they blend into a smooth consistency. It is a dish that showcases the simplicity and richness of Emirati cuisine.

Thereed

Thereed is a type of Emirati stew that consists of slow-cooked meat with vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and tomatoes. It is layered with thin, flatbread known as rigag or khubz, which soaks up the stew's flavorful juices. Thereed is a staple during the cooler months and is known for its comforting and homely taste.

Al Majboos

Al Majboos is similar to Machboos and is a rice dish cooked with saffron, onions, and dried lemon (loomi). It also includes meat, usually chicken or lamb, which is marinated and then cooked with the rice, allowing the flavors to infuse. Al Majboos is a celebration dish often served at gatherings and special occasions.

Shawarma

Although not originally from the UAE, Shawarma has been wholeheartedly adopted into Emirati cuisine. This Middle Eastern wrap consists of thinly sliced marinated meat, such as chicken, beef, or lamb, that is stacked in a cone-like shape and roasted slowly on a vertical rotisserie. Served in a flatbread with vegetables, pickles, and sauces, it's a popular street food in the Emirates.

Fareed

Fareed is a traditional Emirati stew made with chunks of meat, typically lamb, and mixed with vegetables and pieces of flatbread. The bread soaks up the stew, creating a thick, comforting dish that's perfect for sharing. It's seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices, making it a flavorful meal that's often enjoyed during the winter months.

Balaleet

Balaleet is a unique Emirati breakfast dish that features sweet and savory flavors. It's made from vermicelli noodles sweetened with sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom, topped with a thin, savory omelet. The combination of sweet noodles and the omelet creates a delightful contrast that's both surprising and satisfying.

Luqaimat

Luqaimat is a traditional Emirati dessert that's especially popular during Ramadan. These small, round dough balls are deep-fried until golden and crispy, then drizzled with date syrup (dibbs) or honey and sprinkled with sesame seeds. They're crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a favorite sweet treat among locals and visitors alike.

Al Madrooba

Al Madrooba is a savory and satisfying dish made from salt-cured fish (usually kingfish or tuna) combined with a thick sauce of spices, garlic, and chickpea flour. The mixture is cooked until it reaches a paste-like consistency and is often served with rice or bread. It's a distinctive part of Emirati cuisine, showcasing the local love for seafood.

Emirati Desserts

Khanfaroosh

Khanfaroosh is a traditional Emirati dessert made from a batter of flour, eggs, sugar, and aromatic spices like cardamom and saffron. These small, fried cakes are light and fluffy, often enjoyed with a cup of Arabic coffee or tea. They are particularly popular during festive occasions and as a treat to welcome guests.

Qamar Al-Deen

Qamar Al-Deen is a dessert made from apricot fruit leather (apricot paste that has been dried and rolled). During Ramadan, it is commonly rehydrated to make a refreshing and sweet apricot drink, but it can also be used in desserts, where it's cut into pieces and combined with nuts and cream.

Aseeda

Aseeda is a traditional Emirati pudding that's typically made during celebrations. It's a simple dish consisting of wheat flour cooked with water, butter, and sometimes honey, resulting in a smooth and creamy pudding. Aseeda is often flavored with cardamom and saffron and can be garnished with dates or nuts.

Bethitha

Bethitha is a traditional sweet made from ground semolina or wheat flour, mixed with ghee, sugar, and sometimes date syrup. The ingredients are combined to form a dough, which is then shaped into small patties and baked or fried. Bethitha is a simple yet satisfying dessert, often enjoyed with Arabic coffee.

Esh Asaraya

Esh Asaraya, also known as "the bread of the harem," is a rich and sweet cheese dessert. It consists of a base of sweetened bread that's soaked in syrup, topped with a layer of cream or cheese, and garnished with pistachios. The dessert is chilled before serving, making it a refreshing end to a meal.