There’s no denying the soul-satisfying magic of Arabic cuisine, from the smoky aromas of sizzling kebabs to the comforting warmth of feteer, rich rice stews, and irresistible hummus dips. With influences from Egypt, Lebanon, Palestine, Iran, and beyond, Arabic cuisine tells stories of heritage, generosity, and culture.

Whether you’re chasing nostalgia or trying regional flavours for the first time, we’ve rounded up some of the best Arabic restaurants in Dubai and Abu Dhabi for an unforgettable culinary weekend. Bring your appetite,  you’ll need it.

DUBAI

Masmat Baha Restaurant – Egyptian Comfort Food
Al Barsha, @maisan15 | 04 244 7291
Hidden in Al Barsha, this authentic Egyptian gem serves dishes that feel like a hug from home. Don’t miss their molokhia or the legendary mombar, an Arab sausage stuffed with rice and meat. Their homestyle-cooked meals are available at unbeatable prices.

Allo Beirut – Shawarma Central
Hessa Street, Al Barsha | allobeirutstreetfood.com | 800 862 34788
A top spot for street-style Lebanese food. Their chicken and beef shawarmas are iconic, and their foul medames (fava beans with lemon and garlic) is a flavour-packed crowd-pleaser. Expect a queue, and each of their dishes is worth every bite.

Orfali Bros – Middle Eastern Fusion at Its Finest
Wasl 51, Jumeirah | orfalibros.com | 04 259 2477
Award-winning and always buzzing, this bistro run by three Syrian brothers serves creative fusion plates like the OB croquettes and Orfali bayildi. It’s fresh, daring, and utterly delicious.  A must-visit spot this weekend.

Hadoota Masreya – Egyptian Feast Mode
Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Safa | hadootamasreya.com | 04 380 9000
Must-try their famous Hamam Mahshi of stuffed pigeon, feteer, duck with oriental rice, and much more. A favourite for Egyptians missing home, or anyone who wants to eat like a Pharaoh. Go hungry, their portions are generous, and prices are pocket-friendly.

Bu Qtair – No-Frills, All-Flavour Seafood
Fishing Harbour, Umm Suqeim | 055 705 2130
Pick your fish, weigh your prawns, and enjoy freshly marinated seafood right off the grill. Try the masala fish and paratha combo for that ultimate coastal-Arabic vibe. Alternatively, you could request the chef to give an Arabic spin to the freshly caught prawns and sheri.

Mama’esh – Palestinian Bakery Vibes
Business Bay | mamesh.com | 04 264 6728
A laid-back neighbourhood favourite known for fresh manakeesh, wraps, and mezze. Their chicken shawarma wrap and moutabel are musts, best enjoyed on the terrace.

Al Ustad Special Kabab – A Bur Dubai Classic
Al Musalla Road, Bur Dubai | alustadspecialkabab.has.restaurant | 04 397 1933
For over 40 years, this Iranian institution has been serving yoghurt-marinated kebabs and fluffy saffron rice. The joujeh kebab and Khas Khas are legendary, and surprisingly budget-friendly, as are their other char-grilled variety of meats.

ABU DHABI

Al Farah – Mezze, Grills & Arabic Dips
Al Danah | @alfarahrestaurants_official | 600 570 000
This no-fuss eatery delivers crowd-pleasing classics like hummus, kebabs, halloumi, and baklava melt. Great for families or a casual dinner with friends in downtown Abu Dhabi.

Hanar – Stylish Arabic with a Modern Twist
Yas Bay Waterfront | hanar.ae | 052 985 2564
This Yas Island hotspot blends Mesopotamian and Anatolian flavours with flair. From wagyu hummus to deconstructed baklava, it’s Arabic food with fine-dining finesse and killer views.

Whether you’re exploring classic dishes or fusion flair, the UAE’s Arabic food scene is bursting with bold flavours and unbeatable value. Bookmark this list, grab your foodie friends, and let the weekend feasting begin.