The Emirati cuisine is an essential part of the local culture, combining simplicity in ingredients with richness in flavors and nutritional value. Traditional food in UAE reflects a unique blend of Arab, Persian, and Indian influences, using local ingredients such as dates, spices, and fresh fish to create authentic dishes that showcase a beautiful part of Emirati history. Experiencing these dishes is like a cultural journey into the heritage and generous hospitality of the UAE. Travel to the UAE and benefit from the amazing flight booking deals offered by almatar. almatar also provides competitive prices on hotel accommodations.
Here are the top seven traditional foods in the UAE we recommend trying to discover the richness of Emirati cuisine.
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Harees
Harees is a traditional Emirati dish with a special place in Emirati society, commonly prepared for major events such as weddings and Ramadan. The dish is made from mashed wheat cooked slowly with meat (usually lamb or chicken) and a bit of salt until it forms a thick porridge-like texture. Harees is usually served hot, topped with ghee (clarified butter) to enhance its rich flavor. This dish is known for its simplicity and high nutritional value, and its preparation method has been included in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list due to its strong connection to traditional food in UAE. A beautiful custom is to eat harees collectively from one dish among family and friends as a symbol of generosity and social warmth.
Places to try harees in the UAE
Experience authentic Emirati harees at Al Fanar Restaurant in Dubai (which also has a branch in Sharjah).
Also, try Mezlai Restaurant at Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi, which serves harees in a traditional style.
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Majboos
Majboos is the national rice dish of the UAE and one of the most popular traditional food in UAE that must be tried. It consists of basmati rice cooked in meat, chicken, or fish broth, infused with aromatic Emirati spices like dried lime (loomi), cinnamon, saffron, and cardamom. The meat or chicken is slow-cooked to absorb the full flavors, then removed while the rice cooks in the same rich broth. Once the rice is done, the meat is returned to the pot along with fried onions, tomatoes, potatoes, and peppers, allowing the flavors to meld further over low heat. Majboos resembles kabsa or biryani in technique but stands out with its Emirati flavor and use of loomi for a unique natural tang.
Places to try majboos in the UAE
Enjoy authentic Emirati majboos at the Arabian Tea House in the Al Fahidi Historical District, Dubai.
In Abu Dhabi, Al Marzab Restaurant in Al Khabirah serves a delicious version of Emirati majboos.
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Thareed
Thareed is a traditional Emirati dish sometimes referred to as the “Emirati lasagna” due to its layered nature, similar to some Western concepts. It consists of crispy, thin Emirati regag bread placed at the bottom of the plate, topped with slow-cooked meat or chicken stew and a mix of vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, and carrots. The regag bread absorbs the rich, spiced broth, giving the dish a soft texture and deep flavor. Thareed is a filling, nutritious meal especially associated with Ramadan, as it’s easy to digest and nourishing. Historically, it was a staple for Bedouins, using simple ingredients (bread and broth) to satisfy hunger. Today, it remains beloved by both young and old.
Places to try thareed in the UAE
Al Fanar Restaurant in Dubai is an excellent place to try traditional thareed, offering it in an old Emirati home setting with authentic flavor.
In Abu Dhabi, visit Mezlai Restaurant at Emirates Palace, which also serves thareed in an elegant setting celebrating traditional food in UAE.
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Madrooba
Madrooba is a rich, hearty traditional food in UAE typically served during special occasions like Ramadan. The name “madrooba” comes from the Arabic word meaning “beaten” or “mashed,” referring to the continuous stirring and mixing required to achieve a smooth, uniform consistency. While there are various versions, it’s traditionally made with salted dried fish (especially “maleh”) cooked in a thick broth of flour and spices such as turmeric, cumin, and black pepper. Sometimes rice or mashed wheat is added to create a thick porridge-like texture, and vegetables may be included based on preference. The result is a deeply flavored, nutrient-rich dish reflecting the coastal people’s historical reliance on preserved fish for protein. Madrooba is typically served hot with regag bread or rice and is a favored dish during Ramadan for its warmth and energy boost.
Places to try madrooba in the UAE
One of the best places to try authentic Emirati madrooba is Aseelah Restaurant at Radisson Blu Deira in Dubai.
In Abu Dhabi, Al Dhafra Restaurant at Mina Zayed is a well-known spot offering traditional Emirati seafood dishes, including madrooba with its original flavors.
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Balaleet
Balaleet is a traditional Emirati breakfast dish known for its unique blend of sweet and savory flavors. It’s primarily made with thin vermicelli noodles cooked with sugar, saffron, cardamom, and sometimes rose water, then lightly caramelized in ghee or butter. The sweet noodles are served topped with a thin layer of scrambled or omelet-style eggs. This unusual combination of sweet vermicelli and salty eggs gives balaleet a distinctive taste that blends sweetness and saltiness in one dish. It’s often garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or crushed pistachios. Balaleet is typically served hot for breakfast but can also be enjoyed cold as a dessert. Despite its humble ingredients, it’s a staple of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr Iftar in traditional food in UAE.
Places to try balaleet in the UAE
For a classic balaleet experience, try it at Logma Restaurant in Dubai, known for serving traditional Emirati dishes.
In Abu Dhabi, Al Bait Al Qadeem on the Corniche is a standout location to enjoy balaleet and other Emirati breakfast favorites.
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Luqaimat
No traditional Emirati meal is complete without the famous luqaimat, the most beloved local dessert. Luqaimat are golden dough balls deep-fried until crisp on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy on the inside. After frying, the balls are dipped or drizzled with date syrup (dibs) or honey and sprinkled with sesame seeds for extra crunch and visual appeal. Luqaimat strike a perfect balance between sweetness and light texture, making them a popular treat, especially during Ramadan and festive occasions like Eid. They symbolize generosity and communal sharing, which are central to traditional food in UAE. Luqaimat resemble Greek loukoumades or American donuts but with a unique Middle Eastern twist.
Places to try luqaimat in the UAE
Luqaimat can be found in most Emirati street food restaurants, but we recommend Logma Restaurant in Dubai for freshly made, crunchy luqaimat.
You can also try luqaimat at Al Fanar Restaurant in Dubai.
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Khuzi (or Ghuzi)
Khuzi (or ghuzi) is a traditional Emirati dish often considered the UAE’s national dish par excellence. It represents the pinnacle of Emirati hospitality at large feasts and special events. A whole lamb (or large lamb portions) is marinated in a rich blend of spices such as saffron, cinnamon, nutmeg, and pepper, then slow-roasted for hours until tender and fall-apart soft. The meat is served atop a large bed of aromatic rice cooked with ghee and spices and garnished with a mix of toasted nuts like almonds, pine nuts, and golden raisins for added crunch and sweetness. Khuzi is typically presented during festive gatherings, weddings, and Eid, with the large decorated platter placed at the center of the table for everyone to share—a beautiful symbol of authentic Emirati hospitality. The sight of a whole roasted lamb on a bed of fragrant rice is a hallmark of any grand celebration and a luxurious highlight of traditional food in UAE.
Places to try khuzi in the UAE
For a true Emirati khuzi experience, visit Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant in the Al Fahidi Historical District, Dubai.
In Abu Dhabi, Mezlai Restaurant at Emirates Palace is a perfect destination to enjoy exquisitely prepared khuzi.
Conclusion
Tasting the best traditional food in UAE is more than a culinary pleasure; it’s a way to explore the UAE’s culture and history through its rich flavors. We encourage every visitor not to miss the chance to try these seven remarkable dishes. They will take you on a delicious journey through the beautiful heritage of the Emirates, leaving you with unforgettable memories of hospitality and authenticity. Bon appétit!
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