Don’t Miss These 7 Authentic Emirati Foods on Your Trip

When visiting the United Arab Emirates (UAE), many people are amazed by the tall skyscrapers, luxury malls, and stunning desert views. But one of the best parts of Emirati culture is often missed—the food.

Traditional Emirati cuisine is full of rich flavors, warm spices, and unique dishes that tell the story of the country’s Bedouin roots and trading history. From the Arabian Gulf to the desert, food in the UAE reflects its deep culture, hospitality, and love for sharing meals with family and guests.

If you are planning a trip to the UAE, or just want to explore new tastes, here are 7 traditional Emirati dishes you have to try.

1. Al Harees – A Ramadan Favorite

Al Harees is a simple but filling dish made from just wheat, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and salt. The mixture is slow-cooked for several hours—sometimes even overnight—until it becomes soft and smooth, like a porridge.

This dish is often served during Ramadan and Eid because it’s light on the stomach and easy to digest after a long day of fasting. It’s usually topped with a drizzle of ghee (clarified butter) for extra flavor.

Why Try It?
Al Harees is a beautiful example of how few ingredients can create a comforting and hearty meal.

2. Machboos – The Emirati Spiced Rice Dish

Machboos, sometimes called Majboos, is a flavored rice dish cooked with meat, seafood, or chicken. It is similar to Indian biryani but has its own local touch with spices like loomi (dried lime), cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves.

The meat is often cooked until tender, then layered with the spiced rice and steamed together. It’s served with a side of salad or yogurt sauce.

Why Try It?
Machboos is packed with flavor and tells the story of Emirati trade connections with India and Persia.

3. Balaleet – Sweet and Savory Breakfast Delight

Balaleet is a surprising mix of sweet and savory flavors. It’s made with sweetened vermicelli noodles flavored with saffron and rose water, and served with a thin omelet on top.

This dish is usually served for breakfast, but many people enjoy it during special occasions like Eid as well.

Why Try It?
Balaleet is unlike anything you’ve tried before. Its blend of sugar and spices is a true celebration of Emirati creativity in the kitchen.

4. Luqaimat – Crispy Emirati Donuts

If you have a sweet tooth, Luqaimat is a must. These are small, golden, deep-fried dough balls, crispy on the outside and soft inside. They are soaked or drizzled with date syrup (dibs) and sprinkled with sesame seeds.

They are very popular during Ramadan, especially at iftar gatherings, but can also be found at local markets and restaurants year-round.

Why Try It?
Luqaimat is the UAE’s version of comfort dessert. They’re simple, delicious, and addictive.

5. Madrouba – Creamy Rice Porridge

Madrouba is a thick and creamy rice porridge made with rice, meat (usually chicken), garlic, spices, and sometimes vegetables like tomatoes and onions. The ingredients are cooked until everything melts together into a smooth texture.

The name “Madrouba” means “beaten” in Arabic, as the dish is traditionally beaten with a wooden spoon to create its creamy consistency.

Why Try It?
Madrouba is healthy, filling, and perfect for those who love soft, warm comfort food.

6. Thereed – Emirati-Style Stew with Bread

Thereed is a flavorful stew made with meat, vegetables, and rich spices. What makes it special is that it’s served with thin Emirati bread (regag) at the bottom of the dish. The bread soaks up all the stew’s juices, making each bite soft and full of flavor.

This dish is believed to be a favorite of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and is still enjoyed across the UAE today.

Why Try It?
Thereed is the perfect mix of stew and bread, giving you the best of both in one dish.

7. Khuzi – The National Dish of the UAE

No food list is complete without Khuzi (or Ghuzi), the national dish of the United Arab Emirates. It is a whole roasted lamb served on top of a bed of spiced rice with vegetables and nuts.

Khuzi is often prepared for big gatherings, weddings, and festivals. The lamb is roasted until tender and flavored with a mix of local spices.

Why Try It?
Khuzi is more than a meal—it’s a celebration. It shows the Emirati tradition of generosity and sharing.

Where Can You Try These Dishes?

While some international restaurants may offer Emirati food, the best place to try these dishes is in the UAE itself. Look for heritage restaurants in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah. You can also enjoy authentic Emirati food at cultural festivals, food tours, or even local homes during special events.

Some popular places to explore include:

• Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe (Dubai & Abu Dhabi)
• Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) – Offers cultural meals
• Arabian Tea House (Al Fahidi Historical District, Dubai)

Final Thoughts

Emirati cuisine is a rich blend of Bedouin traditions, trade routes, and modern creativity. It’s built on hospitality, family values, and a deep love for flavor. Whether you are a curious traveler or a passionate foodie, trying these 7 traditional dishes will open your eyes—and taste buds—to the true heart of the UAE.

So, next time you visit the Emirates, skip the burgers and pizza—and take a bite into the past with traditional Emirati food.

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