What are some popular food experiences in the UAE (desert dining, street food, festivals)?

Food in the UAE showcases both the diverse cultural elements and traditional Arabian heritage of the region. Eating in the UAE combines both sensory pleasure and the adventure of the dining experience regardless of the price point.

Dine under the stars in the desert

One of the most memorable experiences for visitors is dining under the stars in the desert. A safari tour typically includes desert dining that offers grilled meats and mezze and traditional sweets served within a Bedouin-style camp. The traditional dinner features camel rides together with henna painting and tanoura (Sufi spinning) and belly dancing performances.

Street food staples you shouldn’t miss

Craving something quick and delicious? While the UAE doesn’t have traditional street stalls, casual food is widely available at local cafeterias, food trucks and open-air markets. You can choose between freshly made shawarmas and falafel wraps and finish with the sweet luqaimat fried dough balls dipped in date syrup. A strong cup of karak chai sold at local cafeterias costs just a few dirhams alongside the beverage.

Celebrate food at local festivals

Visitors who arrive during the Dubai Food Festival and Taste of Abu Dhabi will witness the UAE's passionate relationship with food. The festivals unite prestigious chefs with local food vendors and performance artists at a single gathering.

Brunch culture and international cuisine

Brunch culture in Dubai is a beloved weekend ritual, especially on Fridays and Saturdays. Many high-end restaurants and luxury hotels offer lavish brunch spreads that feature live cooking stations, gourmet dishes, and entertainment — making it a social event as much as a meal.

The UAE’s food scene is also remarkably diverse, reflecting its multicultural population. Visitors can enjoy authentic dishes from India, Lebanon, Iran, and the Philippines, as well as refined European and Japanese cuisine.

HOW CAN WE HELP?

All information entered on this form will be kept strictly confidential and subject to our privacy policy once received by us. Your transaction will be secured using SSL/TLS encryption.