What Are the Real Dishes Locals Love in Dubai?

Dubai, a city known for its cultural fusion, has a rich and varied food scene. The city's food, which ranges from sweet delicacies like Luqaimat to traditional dishes like Al Machboos and Mandi, reflects its rich legacy and cultural variety. Discover the true tastes of Dubai with this selection of meals that you simply MUST eat! 

Al Machboos 

Locals in Dubai LOVE al Machboos, a dish that is well-known for its flavourful simplicity. This classic rice meal is prepared by simmering rice, onions, and a mixture of aromatic spices along with meat (often chicken or lamb). The rice absorbs the flavour of the slow-simmered meat as it becomes soft. A zesty flavour is added to the dish by seasoning it with salt and dried lemon. Al Machboos is usually served with a crisp salad and refreshing yoghurt raita, which satisfies the palette with a harmonious mix of flavours and textures. 

Mandi 

Dubai's national dish, mandi, has been handed down through the centuries. In a classic tandoor oven, the flavours of spices, herbs, and meat are slowly cooked into the rice in this dish of rice and meat. Before cooking with the rice, the meat, which is typically lamb or chicken, is marinated in a mixture of spices and yoghurt. Served with a side of lettuce and yoghurt, the outcome is a delicious and delicate entrée. Mandi is a mainstay in many Dubai homes and is frequently served at festivities and special events. 

Al Harees 

Traditionally eaten during important occasions like Ramadan, Eid, and weddings, al harees is a delicacy from Dubai. Meat, wheat, and salt are combined and cooked over low heat for several hours, until the meat is falling apart and the wheat is soft. The meal has a rich, savoury flavour since spices and herbs are frequently used to flavour it. Al Harees is a hearty and filling dish that is enjoyed by both locals and tourists. It is usually served with a side of dates, almonds, or yoghurt. 

Kousa Mahshi 

Stuffed courgettes, also called kousa mahshi, are a tasty and eye-catching delicacy that is very popular in Dubai. The recipe comprises of roasted to perfection courgettes that have been hollowed out and filled with a blend of rice, herbs, and spices. A delicious contrast of textures and flavours is produced by the mix of soft courgettes and savoury filling. This dish, which is frequently served as a main course or side dish, is highly recommended by both locals and tourists. It stands out in Dubai's culinary scene thanks to its distinctive flavour and presentation. 

Shish Tawook 

Dining in Dubai is a journey of its own, and a popular street dish in Dubai called shish tawook is next on the list. Consisting of perfectly cooked marinated chicken skewers served in a pita bread with fries and pickles on the side, the dish is a mainstay in several Middle Eastern nations, including Dubai, where people frequently eat it for a filling and speedy dinner. This fragrant and savoury dish, which is typically enjoyed with a cool glass of lemonade or mint tea, draws both locals and tourists to street food stands and eateries. 

Basel15, Shish taouk, CC BY-SA 3.0 

Luqaimat 

During the holy month of Ramadan (Or any other time of year!), one must enjoy Luqaimat, a famous dessert from the United Arab Emirates. The dough for these sweet dumplings is produced with yeast and then deep-fried till it becomes crispy and golden brown on the exterior and stays light and airy on the inside. A flavourful syrup flavoured with cardamom, lemon, and saffron is then drizzled over the cooked dumplings, producing the ideal harmony of tastes. Other toppings for Luqaimat include sesame seeds, date syrup, or a creamy concoction of thick cream and crushed pistachios. These little sweets are a treasured component of Emirati culinary history and a veritable feast for the senses. You can find this tasty dessert even in hotels such as Avani Palm View Dubai and their restaurants.