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When it comes to Dubai, you must be thinking skyscrapers and fancy stuff, right? Well, forget that for a second because the streets of this desert city are actually a foodie’s playground. Be it old-school delicacies or crazy fusion food, there’s a list of famous street food in Dubai that this melting pot of flavours has got for you. The multicultural population of Dubai brings you everything, from Middle Eastern delicacies to Asian and African treats. Here are ten famous street food options in Dubai that you must try on your next visit.
Famous Street Food In Dubai: Top 10 Dishes
Are you ready to take your taste buds on an exciting journey? Here is a list of the famous street food in Dubai that you must try once on your next trip.
1. Koshari
Photo: Basma / Wikimedia Commons
Koshari is a beloved Egyptian street food that has found a home in Dubai’s food scene. It is one of the go-to street foods in Dubai for vegetarians. This hearty dish is a delicious mix of rice, lentils, chickpeas, and macaroni, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and garnished with crispy fried onions. It’s a vegetarian delight that’s both filling and flavourful. You can find Koshari at various food stalls and eateries across Dubai, often served with a side of tangy vinegar and garlic sauce.
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2. Kanafeh
Photo: Ponila Tankilevitch / Pexels
When it comes to street foods in Dubai, sweet dishes are definitely on the list. Kanafeh is a Middle Eastern dessert that’s a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. This pastry is made with thin noodle-like pastry or semolina dough, soaked in sweet syrup and layered with cheese or cream. It’s typically garnished with pistachios and rose water for a touch of flavour. Kanafeh is best enjoyed hot, and you can find it in numerous bakeries and street stalls around Dubai. It is often served with a strong cup of Arabic coffee.
3. Madrooba
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Who doesn’t want to experience local food while visiting a new city, right? Madrooba is that dish, a traditional Emirati delicacy, perfect for those of you who want to experience local flavours. This savoury porridge is made with fish, flour, and a combination of spices, giving it a rich and creamy texture. It’s usually cooked slowly to allow the flavours to come together beautifully. Madrooba is often served during Ramadan and festive occasions, but you can find it year-round in eateries and markets serving Dubai local food.
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4. Halo-Halo
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Filipinos will love seeing their delicacies being a popular choice among street foods in Dubai. Halo-Halo, which means ‘mix-mix’ in Filipino, is a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for Dubai’s warm weather. This colourful treat is made by combining shaved ice, sweetened fruits, jelly, and beans and is topped with evaporated milk and a scoop of ice cream. Every bite feels like a delightful explosion of textures and flavours. You can find Halo-Halo in various Filipino food stalls and restaurants across Dubai.
5. Manakish
Manakish is a popular Middle Eastern flatbread that’s often compared to pizza. It’s usually topped with a variety of ingredients such as za’atar (a blend of herbs and sesame seeds), cheese, minced lamb, or vegetables. Manakish is baked in a traditional oven until it’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It’s a unique dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and you’ll find it in numerous bakeries and vendors when hunting for street foods in Dubai.
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6. Shish Tawook
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Shish Tawook is a beloved Middle Eastern dish that has marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection. The marinade typically includes yoghurt, lemon juice, garlic, and a mix of spices, giving the chicken a tender and flavourful taste. Shish Tawook is often served with flatbread, garlic sauce, and pickles, making it a satisfying and filling meal. You can find these delicious skewers at many of the food stalls, food trucks, and Middle Eastern restaurants, serving the famous Dubai food options.
7. Kebabs
Photo: Mahsima Sojoudi / Pexels
While kebabs may be a staple in many cuisines around the world, the street food in Dubai offers a variety of options. From juicy lamb kebabs to spicy chicken and beef variants, there’s something for every meat lover. The meat is marinated in a blend of spices and grilled over an open flame, resulting in a smoky and flavourful dish. Kebabs are usually served with flatbread, salad, and a variety of sauces. You can find kebabs at food stalls, markets, and eateries serving famous street food in Dubai.
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8. Falafel
Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern snack made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, mixed with herbs and spices, then deep-fried until crispy. These golden-brown balls are often served in pita bread with tahini sauce, fresh vegetables, and pickles. Falafel is a vegetarian delicacy that’s loved by many for its crunchy texture and rich flavours. For vegetarians looking for the best street food options here, you can find falafel at various Dubai street food stalls, food trucks, and restaurants.
9. Harees
Photo:Miansari66 / Wikimedia Commons
Harees is a traditional Emirati dish that’s especially popular during Ramadan. This hearty dish is made from wheat, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and a blend of spices, slow-cooked until it reaches a porridge-like consistency. Harees is often enjoyed with ghee (clarified butter) and sometimes garnished with fried onions. It’s a rather comforting and nutritious meal that you can find at local eateries and vendors among the many street foods in Dubai.
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10. Shawarma
Photo: RDNE Stock Project / Pexels
No list of street food options in Dubai would be complete without mentioning Shawarma. This iconic dish consists of marinated meat (usually chicken, beef, or lamb) that’s cooked on a vertical rotisserie and shaved off in thin slices. The meat is typically served in pita bread or flatbread, along with garlic sauce, tahini, pickles, and fresh vegetables. Shawarma is a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal. You can find Shawarma at countless stalls, food trucks, and eateries available in Dubai.
Dubai’s street food scene is a journey that offers a delightful blend of flavours from around the world. From traditional Emirati dishes to Middle Eastern favourites and international treats, there’s something to satisfy every craving. If you are seeking a cultural tour, exploring some famous street food in Dubai can be the best way to hop on. So, connect with TripXL now, and get to discover the street food scene in this exotic city.
Cover Photo: Clem Onojeghuo / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
