While Dubai is famous for its international culinary scene, our favourite food adventures have always been far from the glitzy downtown restaurants. For us, the true heart and soul of the nation’s cuisine is tucked away in the winding alleys of Al Fahidi and along the bustling Creek. It’s here you’ll find the rich, aromatic, and comforting flavours of authentic Emirati food. Let us take you on a tour of how to eat like a local.

First, Let’s Talk About the Must-Try Dishes

Before you dive in, let us introduce you to some of the stars of the Emirati table.

• Machboos: This is the quintessential Emirati dish you can’t leave without trying. Imagine fragrant basmati rice cooked with a special blend of spices, tangy dried lime (loomi), and incredibly tender, slow-cooked meat, usually chicken, lamb, or fish (mostly shrimps). It’s a flavourful, one-pot wonder that feels like a warm hug.
• Luqaimat: Our absolute favourite sweet treat. These aren’t just doughnuts; they are little balls of heaven. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and generously drizzled with sweet date syrup (dibbs). Trust us when we say they are incredibly addictive.
• Balaleet: This was a surprise for us, but it’s now a breakfast we crave. It’s a unique combination of sweet and savoury, featuring sweetened vermicelli noodles infused with cardamom and saffron, topped with a thin egg omelette. The mix of textures and flavours is just perfect.
• Harees: This is pure comfort food. A simple yet deeply satisfying porridge-like dish made from wheat and meat (usually chicken), slow-cooked for hours until it’s impossibly smooth and creamy, then topped with a dollop of local ghee.
• Lamb Ouzi: This aromatic rice dish is layered with tender, spiced lamb and finished with a garnish of toasted almonds and pine nuts, adding both crunch and richness.

Our Go-To Spots for the Best Emirati Food in old Dubai

1. Arabian Tea House (Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood): This is our number one recommendation for first-timers. It’s an iconic institution set in a beautiful, serene courtyard. Dining here feels like stepping back in time. Their breakfast trays are yummy and the perfect way to sample a little bit of everything.
   • What to order: The Emirati Breakfast Tray and the Lamb Machboos.
2. Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant (Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood): If you’re looking for a truly immersive experience, this is the place. You get to dine in a traditional barasti-style setting and watch live cultural demonstrations. The food is a wonderful tribute to the Bedouin way of life.
3. What to order: The Chicken Biryani and a plate of Luqaimat for dessert.
4. Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU): This is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. We highly recommend booking one of their cultural lunches. You get to enjoy a fantastic traditional Emirati meal while a local host answers all your questions about UAE culture in a super-friendly and open setting.
5. What we recommend: The full cultural meal experience is unforgettable.

Don’t Forget the Souqs, it’s Part of the Fun

No culinary tour of old Dubai is complete without getting a little lost in the Spice Souk. The fragrant scents of saffron, cardamom, and the local bazar spice mix are just incredible. We also wander over to the Date Souk and try out different varieties of the national fruit. The popular Medjool and the local Khodari deserve a second helping.

Exploring the flavours of old Dubai is more than just a food tour; it’s like taking a journey into the nation’s history. It’s a chance to taste the generosity, tradition, and rich heritage that make Emirati culture so special.