Moving to Dubai or elsewhere in the UAE offers an exciting opportunity for you to explore a vibrant new culture, including the incredible food scene. Dubai’s cuisine is hugely varied, with dishes and ingredients from around the world. From traditional dishes, to an array of international cuisines, there’s something to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
Understanding the local food culture is an exciting part of the adventure for expats relocating. Below, we have reviewed the must try dishes and the popularity of international food to make your culinary transition as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
An Introduction to Dubai and UAE Food
There’s a lot of preparation that goes into moving to Dubai and the UAE, such as understanding the customs process and deciding where in Dubai you want to live. But, amongst the planning and research, you have a whole host of delicious food to look forward to. Dubai and the UAE are known for their multiculturalism, and this is reflected in the food that’s available. The region is home to a myriad of international cuisines, thanks to its large expat community and visitors from around the world. From Indian and Pakistani to Italian and Japanese, and even American, you can find almost any type of cuisine. This diversity means that whether you’re missing a taste of home or you’re keen to try something new, there’s always an option available.
What to Expect From Dubai and UAE Cuisine
There’s a lot to look forward to when you move to Dubai or other parts of the UAE, but the cuisine certainly stands out as being something special. Here’s what you can expect:
A Fusion of International Flavours
Dubai and the UAE are ‘melting pots’ of cultures, and this is expressed in the varied cuisine available throughout the region. You’ll find a wide range of international dishes – Indian, Pakistani, Lebanese, Italian, British and Chinese are just some of the many options – as well as local dishes. As an expat, you’ll never be far from your favourite comfort foods, but you’ll also have a lot of opportunities to explore new flavours.
Dining Out in Dubai
Dining out in Dubai is extremely popular, and it’s an exciting experience. With a range of options ranging from high end restaurants to cosy street food stalls, there’s a lot for expats to explore. Dubai is famous for its extravagant brunches, which tend to be held on Fridays and Saturdays. These brunches often feature a lavish spread of food and beverages, offering a great way to socialise and indulge.
There’s also a big street food scene in the city, with areas like Al Rigga and Deira known for their bustling food markets. This is where you can sample everything from spicy kebabs to sweet baklava. If you prefer a more upscale experience, you won’t be disappointed by the fine dining options. Dubai boasts numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and celebrity chef establishments, all of which offer unique dining experiences, with some also providing stunning views of the skyline or waterfront.
Supermarkets and Groceries
Supermarkets in Dubai and the UAE – such as Carrefour, Spinneys and Lulu Hypermarket – stock a wide range of local and international products. Whether you’re looking for familiar brands or local specialties, you’ll find everything you need for home cooking. Much like in the UK, it’s easy to do a weekly shop in Dubai and the UAE, and you’re never too far away from somewhere to stock up. There are also a lot of specialty stores that cater to organic, gluten free, vegan and other dietary needs, ensuring you can maintain your preferred diet even after your move.
Local Customs and Traditions
As is the case wherever you are in the world, it’s important to respect the local customs and traditions when you’re enjoying the cuisine in Dubai and the UAE. Ramadan is a huge part of what makes up the region’s culture, and it could impact when you dine out at some times of the year. During Ramadan, eating and drinking in public during daylight hours is not allowed, and you will find that the majority of restaurants are closed during this time.
‘Must Try’ Dishes in Dubai and UAE
There are a lot of exciting dishes to try in Dubai and the UAE, including:
Machboos
Machboos is a fragrant rice dish, similar to biryani, but it’s made using Emirati spices. It is often made with chicken, lamb or fish, and that’s cooked with a blend of spices including cardamom, cinnamon and dried lime. It’s a hearty dish that’s a staple in Dubai and the UAE cuisine, and it’s often enjoyed during family gatherings and special occasions.
Harees
Harees is a traditional dish made from wheat and meat, that’s slow cooked until it reaches a creamy consistency. It’s popular during Ramadan and at big celebrations. Harees is made using simple flavours and it’s a comfort food for many locals.
Manakish
Manakish is a popular Levantine dish found across the UAE, and it’s somewhat similar to a pizza. It’s made using flatbread, which is topped with a variety of ingredients such as za’atar, cheese or minced meat. It tends to be enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack.
Falafel
Though found around the world, falafel is hugely popular in Dubai and the UAE.
Falafel is deep fried balls of ground chickpeas or fava beans, and it’s a beloved street food in the region. It’s usually served in a pita with tahini sauce, salad and pickles. It’s a popular vegetarian dish, often served as the vegetarian option at restaurants.
Samak Mashwi
As Dubai has an impressive coastline, it’s not surprising that seafood is a major part of the local diet. Samak mashwi refers to grilled fish that’s marinated in a blend of spices. The freshness of the fish, combined with the aromatic spices, makes it a popular dish with visitors and locals alike.
Shawarma
Shawarma is enjoyed around the world, but it’s definitely a dish that needs to be tried in Dubai. Thin slices of marinated chicken, lamb or beef are stacked on a rotisserie, slow cooked, and then served in a warm pita with garlic sauce, pickles and vegetables. You’ll struggle to find anyone who doesn’t enjoy shawarma.
Luqaimat
These sweet dumplings are a favourite Emirati dessert. Luqaimat are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and they are made from flour, sugar and yeast. Luqaimat are deep fried, and then with date syrup or honey for extra sweetness.
The Popularity of International Dishes in Dubai and UAE
The popularity of international dishes in Dubai and the UAE is a reflection of the region’s global community, and its ability to cater to a wide array of tastes. One of the most popular and easy to find international dishes in Dubai is sushi, which has a huge following among both locals and expats. Renowned Japanese restaurants like Zuma and Nobu have established themselves as culinary landmarks in the city, offering an authentic taste of Japan. Similarly, Italian cuisine is a big hit, with many restaurants serving up traditional dishes such as handmade pasta and woodfired pizzas.
The influence of Indian cuisine is also obvious, with Indian restaurants providing rich, flavourful curries and freshly baked naan throughout the city. Lebanese and other Middle Eastern cuisines have also carved out a significant presence in the food scene, with hummus, falafel and kebabs quickly becoming favourites of many locals. You’ll also find it easy to tuck into burgers and fries, as American fast food chains such as Shake Shack and Five Guys have grown in popularity a lot in recent years.
The Availability of UK Food in Dubai and UAE
If you are moving to Dubai or the wider UAE from the UK, the availability of familiar foods can be comforting and a huge help when it comes to adapting to your new home. Luckily, Dubai and the UAE offer a plethora of options for those seeking a taste of home. Some supermarkets from home, such as Waitrose, have established themselves in Dubai. This provides you with a wide range of UK products. These stores stock everything from beloved biscuits and teas, to baked goods and your favourite condiments. Familiar brands such as Heinz, McVitie’s and Marmite can be easily found, ensuring that you can enjoy your favourite snacks and ingredients, even once you have settled into your new life abroad.
There are also UK themed pubs and restaurants in tourist areas of Dubai, which adds another dimension to the culinary landscape.These offer classic British dishes such as fish and chips, shepherd’s pie and a full English breakfast, giving you a taste of home. These establishments not only provide familiar food, but many recreate the vibe of a traditional pub, making them popular spots for expats to gather and socialise.
Enjoy Dubai and UAE’s Food as an Expat
Once you have moved from the UK, you can immerse yourself in the rich and diverse food culture of Dubai and the UAE. However, making such a big move requires meticulous planning and preparation. This is where the expertise of a professional international removals company becomes invaluable.
At United International Removals, we can handle the logistics of your relocation, ensuring that your belongings are safely and efficiently transported to your new home. You can focus on settling into your new environment and savouring the culinary delights, without the added stress of managing the move on your own. Get in touch to find out more.