Dubai isn’t just a city of towering skyscrapers and luxury—it’s a melting pot of cultures, and nowhere is that more evident than in its food. As a local food explorer and founder of Frying Pan Adventures, I’ve spent years uncovering the city’s hidden gems and iconic dishes.
My latest YouTube video on Ditch the Silver highlights seven must-try foods that capture the essence of Dubai’s vibrant culinary scene. This blog post dives deeper into those dishes so you can plan your food adventure.
Hummus and Falafel
Dubai’s hummus and falafel game is strong, but Sultan Dubai Falafel takes it to the next level. Their Palestinian-Jordanian hummus, topped with green chili, garlic, and lemon sauce, delivers a zing you didn’t know hummus needed. Pair it with crispy, golden falafel (don’t miss the chili-stuffed version), and you’ve got a dish locals dream of when they’re away.
Watch the hummus magic at 00:47 in the video.
- Sultan Dubai Falafel (AED 12–18)
- Al Beiruti for a premium twist (AED 48 for hummus with meat in pomegranate molasses).
Iranian Kebabs
Smoky koobideh kebabs and fresh sangak bread are a match made in heaven. The secret? Onion juice and butter keep the meat melt-in-your-mouth tender. Head to Mamzar for an authentic Iranian kebab experience.
See the juicy koobideh at 02:47 in the video.
- Khoory Kebabs (AED 35 for 3 skewers with bread and rice).
- Special Ustad for yogurt-marinated kababs (AED 30 for 2 skewers).
Indian Street Food
For a burst of tangy, spicy flavors, Indian chaat is a must. Pani Puri is the star here—crispy puris filled with tamarind water and chutneys. Meena Bazaar is your go-to destination for authentic Indian street food.
Jump to the chaat-filled fun at 03:59.
- Bhavna (AED 7 for Pani Puri).
- Raghuvanshi (AED 5.50 for DIY Pani Puri).
Za’atar and Cheese Bread
Warm, herby, and cheesy—za’atar and cheese bread is the ultimate comfort food. Whether it’s from a Lebanese manoushe bakery or an Afghan street-side oven, this dish is a quintessential Dubai experience.
See why it’s a Dubai staple at 05:01.
- Shaiba Bakery (AED 6 for za’atar-cheese roti).
- Mama’esh for Palestinian fatayer (AED 15).
Emirati Breakfast
Start your day like a local with an Emirati breakfast. From sweet balaleet to fluffy chabab pancakes drizzled with date syrup, these dishes are rich in tradition and flavor.
Catch the Emirati breakfast magic at 06:32.
- Arabian Tea House (AED 85 for the Emirati breakfast platter).
Cafeteria Chai and Egg Roll
Messy, indulgent, and iconic, the humble cafeteria egg roll paired with kadak chai is a staple of Old Dubai. Spicy, creamy, and loaded with Chips Oman, this snack is as nostalgic as it gets.
Watch the messy indulgence unfold at 07:47.
- Zubairi Cafeteria (AED 6 for egg roll).
Shawarma
The OG of Dubai street food, shawarma is a dish that locals never tire of. Aroos Damascus is one of the city’s most iconic spots for this wrap filled with juicy, marinated meat.
Get your shawarma fix at 08:41.
- Aroos Damascus (AED 6 for meat shawarma).
- Mashawy Al Halabiya for chicken and meat options (AED 9+).
Why These Foods Define Dubai
These dishes aren’t just delicious—they tell the story of Dubai’s multicultural identity. From Emirati breakfasts to Indian street food and Middle Eastern classics, every bite is a window into the city’s soul.
Watch the Full Food Tour: Want to see these foods up close and personal? Watch my full video on Ditch the Silver for an insider’s guide to Dubai’s must-try eats.
Share Your Dubai Favorites
What’s your go-to dish in Dubai? Drop your recommendations in the comments below or let me know on Instagram. Who knows? Your favorite might feature in my next video!
Arva Ahmed is the co-founder of Frying Pan Adventures, Dubai’s first food tour company, and a celebrated food explorer known for uncovering Dubai’s hidden culinary gems. Her expertise in the city’s diverse food scene has been featured in prominent publications such as CNN, Khaleej Times, BBC Travel, The Sun, The Independent and countless more. She also hosts Ditch the Silver on YouTube. Through her immersive tours and storytelling, Arva brings Dubai’s rich flavors and vibrant cultures to life.
