Dubai is a city of glamour, wealth, and innovation. However, there’s an aspect of this city that people often forget: its culinary heritage. This article explores the Emirati cuisine in depth.
Traditional Emirati Cuisine
The traditional cuisine in Dubai is called Emirati cuisine, characterised by its use of rice, fish, meat, dates, and spices. These ingredients are what flavour the dishes you get to enjoy in Dubai today.
Here are some of the dishes you must try during your time in Dubai:
- Machboos: This dish is much like Biriyani. Machboos is spiced rice cooked with meat, often lamb or chicken. Its distinct flavour is achieved through the addition of spices like cardamom, saffron, and cloves.
- Al Harees: Al Harees, a porridge dish made with wheat and meat, takes a while to prepare. While you can find it anytime and anywhere in Dubai, locals particularly enjoy Al Harees during special occasions such as Ramadan and Eid.
- Luqaimat: A dessert item, Luqaimat is similar to dumplings. Soaked in date syrup, Luqaimat is crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside.
As you will realise during your Dubai culinary journey, Emirati cuisine uses fresh, local ingredients. Dubai is a coastal location, so you can find seafood in abundance. As for meat, locals favour lamb and chicken above other options. Grilling, baking, and slow cooking are some of the preferred cooking methods.
Where to dine in Dubai? You’ll find an array of eateries, both budget and upscale. Street markets and traditional souks offer an authentic dining experience, while luxury hotels in Dubai lean towards gourmet dishes. For easy access to street markets and restaurants and to enjoy delicious food without leaving your luxury accommodation, consider staying at a hotel such as La Suite Dubai Hotel & Apartments.
Culinary Influences
Emirati cuisine is the coming together of various influences. Dubai’s strategic location makes it a sought-after trading hub. This has brought a diverse range of influences to its shore. In many Emirati dishes found in Dubai today, you’ll find traces of India and Persia.
The use of dried limes and saffron is a result of the Persian influence, while the use of turmeric and cardamom comes from India. Meanwhile, elements such as falafel and hummus speak of Levantine flavours.
Dubai is now a global city. The city’s population is made up of expats from around the world. If you pop into a local restaurant, you can find everything from Japanese sushi to American burgers.
Traditions and Etiquette
Dining in Dubai extends beyond just tasting different dishes; it’s about discovering culture and tradition. Good hospitality is integral to Emirati cuisine, as is communal dining. In Dubai, dining is about strengthening family bonds and friendships while enjoying food.
Locals like to sit on the floor to dine. Cushions are laid out, typically in a circle, for your comfort. This way of enjoying food is especially popular during special occasions and family get-togethers. Meals are rarely individual-sized – they come in large portions for everyone to share. Generally, large platters of food are placed in the centre for everyone to dig in. Locals like to eat with their right hand. If you’re invited to lunch or dinner at a local home, you’ll be served dates and coffee upon arrival, which you should accept with grace.
Street Food and Markets
Dubai boasts a lively street food scene, and it isn’t limited to local flavours – international flavours can easily be found at street food stalls and markets.
These are two of the must-try street foods:
- Shawarma: One of the most popular street food items, Shawarma is rolled-up pita bread served with a filling of grilled meat and veggies.
- Falafel: These are deep-fried patties made from chickpeas.
Where can you find street food in Dubai? Markets are your best bet.
Festivals
Dubai hosts various culinary festivals throughout the year. These festivals attract foodies from around the world. Here are some of the top picks that will fill any foodie with joy:
Speciality Food Festival: Another popular culinary extravaganza in Dubai, the Speciality Food Festival features a range of culinary delights from around the world. Celebrity chef cooking competitions are a key part of the event.
Dubai Food Festival: The largest and the most famous culinary festival in Dubai, Dubai Food Festival is celebrated over several weeks. You can enjoy a range of activities, including Dubai Restaurant Week, Foodie Experiences, and the Beach Canteen. What’s more, some of the best restaurants in the city feature their special menus at the festival.
Taste of Dubai: Usually held in February or March, Taste of Dubai brings together some of the best chefs and restaurants in Dubai. You can sample dishes and watch chefs create their best masterpieces.