Dubai is extremely popular in the world for its luxuries, advancements, attractions, architecture, entertainment, shopping, and whatnot. This metropolis is never behind in any field, even when it comes to keeping cultures and traditions alive through Dubai food. You won’t believe it, but Dubai can also be a paradise for food lovers. Yes, this is surprising that this city is not even lagging in serving its food culture to the visitors from all over the world.
So to all the foodies out there, if you are visiting Dubai, its variety of cuisines will truly satisfy your taste buds. Here you can find a rich blend of Middle Eastern flavors and international cuisine. Whether you are craving something fancy or want to taste the traditional Emirati flavours, there is a long list of Dubai famous food. From Manakish, the Middle Eastern version of pizza, to Al Harees, a slow-cooked traditional dish full of spices, Dubai offers something for every food lover.
You can complete your food hunt in Dubai with Luqaimat, which are sweet fried dumplings, a perfect and famous dish for dessert. There is a great variety for seafood lovers, which is served freshly along the coast. Not to worry, vegetarians are not going to be disappointed here. You can find amazing options for veg food in Dubai. So let us see what the culinary scene of Dubai has to offer, along with Dubai food cost in indian rupees.
If you're planning a trip to Dubai, then Dubai Visa for Indians is your go-to for a hassle-free visa.
For non-vegetarian enthusiasts, Dubai has broader options available, from Chelo Kababs to Al Machboos. The non-veg food in Dubai is known for tender meat, bold flavours, and aromatic spices. There is an amazing variety of non-vegetarian dishes, whether you want something grilled or a slow-cooked meal. Here is the list of popular non-veg dishes along with the average food cost in Dubai.
Manousheh, also known as the “Arabic Pizza,” is a widely eaten dish, especially preferred for breakfast in Dubai. It is traditionally made with a base of pita or khubz (flatbread). It is usually topped with za’atar, cheese, or meats. It is usually loaded with a variety of meats, such as lamb, chicken, or ground beef. As it is freshly baked in a stone oven, it becomes crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. The stone over is used to maintain the authenticity of this dish. It is loved not only by locals but also by tourists.
Try It With: Arabic coffee or tea, and with other toppings like minced meat, eggs, or fresh vegetables.
Price: Starts from INR 800 onwards for one.
Iranian Sangak is a healthy, popular, and the best food in Dubai. It is a Persian-style flatbread made with whole wheat. The hot stones are used for baking, as this gives a unique texture and authenticity in taste. It is prepared with meats, such as lamb, spiced chicken, or kebabs. The mild flavours of the bread blend perfectly with the bold spices of the meat. It is a great combination that you must give a try when in Dubai. It is generally served in Iranian restaurants throughout Dubai.
Try It With: Persian stew, lamb kebabs, feta cheese, and herbs.
Price: From INR 400 onwards.
Chelo Kabab is the most favorite Persian dish, which not only has a separate fanbase for locals, but also for travellers. In this dish, you will get succulent skewers of grilled meat, mainly lamb or beef. It is served alongside rice that is infused with saffron and a chunk of butter. It is also accompanied by grilled tomatoes and herbs, and considered one of the best non-veg dishes in Dubai. Chelo Kabab is a filling and flavourful dish that shows the impact of Iranian cuisine’s delicacy in Dubai.
Try It With: Fried egg, raw onion, sour zereshk berries, and dill, an aromatic herb.
Price: INR 550 onwards
Al Harees, one of the oldest traditional dishes of Dubai, is the main dish prepared on special occasions, like Ramadan. It is made with a process in which wheat and meat (chicken or lamb) are slowly cooked for several hours. It is cooked until it reaches a porridge-like thickness. This is the most comforting and nutritious dish with light salt that shows the true Emirati culinary traditions. If the quality meat is used and cooked for a long time, it gets enriched with flavors, though it looks simple.
Try It With: An Ample amount of clarified butter, and in some versions with honey or sweetener.
Price: From INR 850 onwards
Al Machboos is a dish made with spicy rice and meach, such as fish, lamb, or chicken. It is cooked with the flavours of dried lime, strong spices, and saffron. This dish is mainly preferred because it has deep roots of originating with the traditions of the Gulf. It is a popular dish across Dubai and is generally served during family meals and gatherings. This dish also reflects the true essence of Emirati hospitality and the traditions of Bedouin cooking techniques.
Try It With: Toasted almonds, dates, and raisins, and some variations have chickpeas or boiled eggs.
Price: From INR 550 onwards.
Mandi, a classical Arabian dish, is primarily enjoyed in Dubai, commonly as well as occasionally. It is made with rice (mainly Basmati), tender meat, and a flavourful blend of regional spices. In this dish, the meat(lamb or chicken) is cooked traditionally in a tandoor to give it a smoky flavour. It is served on a large platter and people it it together, making it a social dish. It is loved for its balance of spice and warmth; it is a dish that brings people together.
Try It With: A traditional tomato-based sauce known as dakoos, also with salad and yogurt.
Price: INR 400 onwards.
Oozie, a celebratory rice dish, is frequently served in Dubai during Ramadan and other festivities. It consists of spicy rice wrapped in a soft pastry, or occasionally it is served with slow-cooked meat, such as chicken or lamb. Flavored with nutmeg, cardamom, and cinnamon, Oozie is typically served with salad or yogurt. The meal, which represents generosity, tradition, and the delight of sharing food in Dubai, is a favorite for family get-togethers because of its comforting warmth and harmonious combination of textures.
Try It With: Yogurt or cucumber and onion salad.
Price: Price varies in different places.
Camel Meat could give a great culinary experience, especially to non-veg aficionados. This not only tastes divine but also exhibits the deep-rooted Bedouin traditions in its flavors. It is usually used in stews, grilled, or even served as burgers. It is popularly eaten in Dubai due to its lean, slightly sweet, and protein-rich qualities. The natural flavours of camel meat get more delicious when cooked with regional spices. Once reserved for special occasions, camel meat is now a delicacy featured in both traditional and modern restaurants.
Try It With: Afghani bread (roti), rice dishes (such as al machboos or biryani).
Price: Varies depending on different locations.
Typically made with lamb or chicken, Margoogat is a substantial Emirati stew that is slow-cooked in a thick tomato-based gravy flavored with turmeric, onions, garlic, and other spices. It is a hearty and satisfying dinner that's typically served with bread or rice. Margoogat is a mainstay in Emirati homes, distinguished by its strong flavors and viscous consistency. It provides a tasty taste of traditional home-cooked Gulf cuisine and is appreciated in Dubai both at home and in neighborhood restaurants.
Try It With: Buckwheat flatbread or lavash.
Price: From INR 450 Onwards.
Love exploring global cuisines? After tasting Dubai’s best, discover delicious dishes around the world by visiting these Visa Free Countries for Indians.
If you are a vegetarian travelling to Dubai, there is no need to worry about your meal. Dubai is not only popular for its non-veg food, but it also has a large variety of Dubai famous veg food. So, have a look at the best vegetarian dishes to try in Dubai.
Being health-conscious, you want to eat something that doesn’t break your diet even in Dubai, so Tabbouleh is the best option. Tabbouleh is also known by other names: Tabouleh, tabbouli, tabouli, or taboulah. It is a type of salad, a Levantine salad, made with finely chopped parsley, soaked bulgur, tomatoes, mint, and onion. This salad is usually seasoned with olive oil and lemon juice. To give amazing flavours, it is also seasoned with salt and sweet pepper.
Try It With: It tastes delicious with Hummus, baba ganoush, muhammara, and tzatziki.
Price: From INR 550 onwards.
Kousa Mahshi is not only the best but also the classic vegetarian main course meal you can try in Dubai. It is also called stuffed squash, stuffed courgette, stuffed marrow, stuffed mahshi, stuffed kousa, or stuffed zucchini. It is a popular dish in Egypt, the Levant, and the Balkans. Basically, it is zucchini stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs, and spices, often simmered in a tomato-based sauce. It is a vegetarian comfort food that offers rich flavours and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Try It With: Flatterbread, plain rice, yogurt, hummus, babaganoush, or salad.
Price: Starts from INR 300 onwards.
Shirin Pulao or Shirin Polo is an aromatic Persian-style rice dish that you must try when in Dubai. It is made with basmati rice, saffron, candied orange peel, nuts, and dried fruits. It offers a perfect balance between sweet and savory flavors. It is usually served during celebrations or in upscale Persian restaurants. You will find the essence of Dubai’s multicultural cuisine in Shirin Pulao. Also, it is a great way to experience authentic Middle Eastern hospitality through food. It is a vegetarian dish full of colors that maintains a fragrant delicacy.
Try It With: Salad and different grilled vegetables.
Price: INR 550 onwards.
Baba Ganoush is an absolute and most flavourful vegetarian dish you can enjoy in Dubai. It is a rich, creamy dip made with roasted eggplant, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. Not only these, but it can also be eaten with major Middle Eastern meals. The smoky flavour of eggplant is really appetizing, so you should not skip it. When exploring vegetarian food in Dubai, you can find Baba Ganoush at fine-dining restaurants and also on street stalls.
Try It With: Generally, it is eaten as a starter with hot khubz bread, tandoori flatbread, pita, or other types of flatbreads.
Price: Different prices at different places.
Fatteh is the ultimate all-in-one vegetarian meal in Dubai; you should give it a try. It is a layered dish made with chickpeas, tangy yogurt, and a drizzle of garlic and tahini sauce. It is often garnished with pine nuts and herbs. Each bite offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors; this dish is creamy, crunchy, and zesty. This traditional Levantine dish is commonly eaten for breakfast or lunch. It is a flavorful option for those looking for vegetarian cuisine in Dubai.
Try It With: Crispy pita bread, pita chips, salad, and rice.
Price: From INR 150 onwards.
Kallej is a crispy flatbread filled with cheese, generally eaten as a snack in Dubai. It is one of the most popular Middle Eastern foods that can be available in cafes, restaurants, and street food throughout the city. It is filled with gooey cheese and grilled golden brown in a pan. It is normally served hot with mint tea and cold beverages. If you love cheese and don’t want it on pizza or a sandwich but on something else, Kallej is perfect for that.
Try It With: Powdered sugar, and tastes best when served hot.
Price: Different prices at different places.
Falafel, another famous and widely eaten dish, not just in Dubai but all over the world. It is prepared with balls made with ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices. These balls are fried deeply until crisp on the outside. It is usually served in pita bread along with tahini, salad, and pickles. If you want to have something filling, hearty, and satisfying snack, this is the perfect meal. It is a must-have dish if you are looking for something veg in Dubai.
Try It With: Hummus, Banana gemus, or pita bread.
Price: From INR 250 onwards.
To all the fitness freaks out there! Fattoush is a vegetarian dish found in Dubai that is supremely tasty and doesn’t let you consume extra calories. It is a fresh, crunchy Levantine salad, best for vegetarians looking for something light and nutritious. It has greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and sour lemon dressing along with tossed pita bread pieces. If you want to have something healthy but don’t want to compromise on taste, you must have Fattoush. It is found in almost every Arabic or Lebanese restaurant in Dubai
Try It With: Grilled halloumi, tofu kabobs, falafel, mujaddara, or other Lebanese mezzes and grilled items.
Price: From INR 1000 onwards.
Madrouba, a slow-cooked dish made with rice and lentils, which is often called “Khichdi of Dubai.” This simple dish is incredibly soothing and loaded with flavours. It is traditionally cooked with meat, but its vegetarian version is just wow. It consists of spices, such as turmeric, cinnamon, and cardamom. This creamy and porridge-like food is suitable for those who want to eat something filling, warm, and hearty. Madrouba is commonly eaten, especially during Ramadan and other festival times.
Try It With: Tangy yogurt, salad, pickled vegetables, and clarified butter.
Price: Price varies in different places.
If you are a pancake enthusiast, then you are going to love Chebab, which is Dubai’s version of pancakes. It is infused with saffron and cardamom and is rich in sweet flavours and aroma. Not only locals, but also tourists generate a separate fan base for these pancakes. You can easily find it in Emirati cafes and breakfast spots across the city. It is great to start your perfect day in Dubai with such a type of vegetarian treats.
Try It With: Cream cheese and date syrup.
Price: Different prices in different places.
The traditional flatbread, Khubz, is served with almost every dish in Dubai, as it is an essential part of the food culture of this city. It is soft, warm, and slightly chewy. This bread can be best eaten with dips like hummus and baba ganoush. It can also be used as a falafel and grilled vegetables wrap. This bread is usually baked fresh, especially in clay ovens, to maintain its authenticity. It is available in world-class restaurants as well as bakeries and street vendors.
Try It With: Mutabal (eggplant dip), tahini sauce, fresh vegetables such as cucumbers and tomatoes, foul medames (fava bean stew), labneh, and various cheeses.
Price: The Cost varies in different places.
Before you head out to try these amazing dishes, make sure to check out our guide on Dubai Travel Rules for Women to better understand local customs and etiquette.
If you are a true foodie, you know the value, taste, and craze for street food. So, it is not acceptable that you come to Dubai and don’t try mouth-watering street food. So, let us find out what Dubai street food culture has to offer.
Shish Tawook, one of the popular street food items that can be a great choice to eat at any time of the day. It is a Middle Eastern dish prepared with juicy and grilled chicken chunks. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and spices to give a tangy and spicy flavor. So, you can enjoy it in a wrap or eat straight off the skewer. Shish Tawook can be really delicious and comforting street food.
Try It With: Warm pita bread, garlic sauce, and grilled veggies.
Price: Starts from INR 500.
Lahem Bl Ajin, also known as the “Middle Eastern meat pizza,” is also a must-try street food option in Dubai. It is a thin flatbread filled with a mixture of minced meat, usually lamb or beef, along with onions, tomatoes, and spices. It is baked until it becomes crisp and the meat gets cooked. It is a flavoursome meal mainly preferred for lunch or evening snacks. It can be enjoyed best with yogurt or a squeeze of lemon for a tangy and more delicious taste
Try It With: Salads, hummus, and mint tea.
Price: INR 500 onwards.
Taboon bread is something more than merely a variety of bread. It is a time-honoured, classical bread that is still baked in clay ovens. It is a flavourful, soft, and chewy bread that originated from the Levant region. It is usually used as a wrap for falafel, shawarma, or za'atar. It is a bit thicker than regular pita bread, but it makes you feel like home-cooked food with every bite. It is a bread that tastes amazing with every type of meal.
Try It With: Olive oil and za'atar, a mix of wild thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds, or with hummus and falafel.
Price: INR 450 onwards.
Shawarma, an ultimate street food widely known not only in Dubai but also beyond that. It is prepared with thin slices of marinated meat (chicken, beef, or lamb). The meat is stacked vertically and roasted slowly. Then, the meat is shaved off and filled into flatbread with different sauces, pickles, and even fries. It is a quick, affordable, and flavorful meal for small appetites as it brings a burst of taste in every bite.
Try It With: Fresh salads and cold & hot appetizers.
Price: INR 300 onwards.
Samboosa or Samosa is a crispy, triangle-shaped patty, stuffed with several fillings, such as meat, vegetables, or even lentils. It is a primary food consumed during any festival season, including Ramadan. It is deeply fried until it gets a golden-brown color and the filling gets cooked properly. Samboosas are a popular dish for snacking with delicious stuffings, and are enjoyed more when served piping hot. It is full of taste and flavours that bring happiness and warmth to every table.
Try It With: Sweet dates sauce and coriander-mint sauce.
Price: INR 100 onwards.
Oman Chips Roll is a nostalgic snack that many people from the Gulf grew up loving it soo much. It is made by spreading cream cheese on a flatbread, then filling it with crunchy, spicy Oman Chips before rolling it up. A quick, delicious mix of soft and crispy textures with a hint of heat. It’s the perfect example of turning simple ingredients into a tasty treat. This roll isn’t just food but a bite of childhood memories.
Try It With: Crispy chips, hot spiced tea, mayonnaise, and other dips.
Price: Starts from INR 50 onwards.
No meal is complete if you don’t have sweet treat after your meal. After having a delicious, spicy, and flavourful food, having desserts gives a wonderful end to your meal. So, here are some of the most popular desserts you must try in Dubai.
Liquaimat are golden, deep-fried balls that are crispy on the outside and soft and airy on the inside. It is sprinkled with sweet date syrup or honey and sesame seeds. These small-sized balls are so addictive that you can’t stop at one. It is usually made and enjoyed during Ramadan or at food festivals. Luqaimat is the authentic taste of Emirati flavours and traditions. You can enjoy it with Arabic coffee, and this combination will really satisfy your soul.
Try It With: Emirati Coffee (Gahwa) or date syrup
Price: Price may be different.
Knafeh is another delicious and cheesy sweet dish widely famous in Dubai. It is also called the ”Queen of Arabic Desserts.” It is one of the most preferred traditional Middle Eastern pastries made with lots of cheese. Its exterior is made with shredded kataifi pastry or fine semolina dough. It is soaked in a sugar-based syrup, giving this pastry a soulful blend of sweetness and cheese. It can be garnished with ingredients like pistachios or clotted cream
Try It With: It tastes best when served fresh and hot. It can be tried with unsweetened Arabic coffee or tea.
Price: INR 200 onwards.
Mahalabiya is a thick, creamy, and sweet, traditionally made Middle Eastern milk dessert. It is made with milk, sugar, and cornstarch or rice flour (for thickening). It is flavoured with rose water or orange blossom water, giving it a wholesome aroma. It is topped with nuts, mainly pistachios. It tastes best when served chilled, as chilling it enhances its flavours and texture. It is specially made on festivals like Eid or Ramadan. It is among the most favourite desserts in Dubai, loved by almost everyone.
Try It With: It tastes more delicious when topped with cashews, almonds, shredded coconut, and ground cinnamon. Try it with traditional Arabic coffee.
Price: Price varies in different restaurants.
Khanfaroosh is another widely eaten dish for the teatime in family gatherings with unsweetened tea or coffee. It comes from the Gulf countries, mainly popular in Qatar, Bahrain, and the UAE. It is a soft, fluffy cake or donut that is deep-fried until golden-brown. Its taste gets enhanced with saffron and rosewater, and it is usually served with a hint of cardamom. It is made as a family tradition that has been passed down to generations in many Emirati homes.
Try It With: It can be paired with Arabic coffee (Gahwa) or tea. Also, garnish it with different nuts, like walnuts, pecans, and hazelnuts, as well as shredded coconut.
Price: From INR 1400 onwards.
Khuzi, also known as Ghuzi or Ouzi, is considered the national food of Dubai. The other dish that is also regarded as the national food of Dubai is Al Machboos.
The cost of food in Dubai depends on where you are eating. If you are eating in Dubai’s high-end restaurants, it will automatically cost more. Whereas if you opt for local restaurants and street food, it will cost less.
Generally, Emirati cuisines are popularly eaten in Dubai. But in Dubai, being a multicultural city, you can find a mix of Emirati and international cuisines.
Yes, you can eat pork in Dubai, as the UAE government allows non-Muslims to purchase and eat pork products. Although they have to follow strict regulations to purchase and eat pork.
Chbab (sweet pancakes) with date syrup and cheese, balaleet (vermicelli with egg and spices), or luqaimat (sweet fried dumplings), alongside more common options like eggs, cereal, and pastries, are usually eaten for breakfast in Dubai.
The At.mosphere, Al Nafoorah, Al Ustad Special Kebab, Thiptara, Pierchic, Stay by Yannick Alléno, and Clay are some of the famous restaurants in Dubai.
Food like lentil soup, Sambousek (savory pies), Majboos (spiced rice and meat), Luqaimat (sweet doughnuts), and Balaleet (sweetened vermicelli) are the best to try in Dubai during Ramadan.
Harees, Majboos, Khuzi, and various flatbreads like Chebab and Raqaq are some of the traditional foods in Dubai.
A regular meal in Dubai at a casual restaurant usually costs between INR 3,500-5,000. Whereas eating at high-end luxury restaurants will cost you over INR 12,000.
www.dubaivisaforindians.com is a site operated by Travejar Tourism LLC, a travel agency registered in Dubai under number 1835447. Commercial License Number: 1115447 issued on Nov 9th 2022.
Copyright © 2025 www.dubaivisaforindians.com is unit of Travejar Tourism LLC