When traveling, food is more than just sustenance—it’s a gateway to culture, heritage, and community. For travelers heading to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar, the culinary scene is a rich mix of Arabian tradition, Bedouin heritage, and regional influences. While Dubai and Doha boast international fine dining, the true magic lies in the traditional Emirati and Qatari dishes that tell stories of desert life, family gatherings, and centuries-old trade routes.
If you’re a food lover, here’s a guide to the must-try dishes in Dubai and Qatar that will make your journey as delicious as it is memorable.
🌟 Traditional Emirati Dishes You Shouldn’t Miss
1. Al Harees
A beloved Emirati dish often served during Ramadan and weddings, Al Harees is made by slow-cooking wheat and meat (usually chicken or lamb) until it forms a porridge-like texture. It’s simple yet comforting, reflecting the communal spirit of Emirati cuisine.
👉 Try It At: Local Ramadan tents or traditional restaurants in Old Dubai.
2. Al Machboos
Considered the UAE’s national dish, Al Machboos features spiced rice cooked with meat, chicken, or seafood. Flavored with dried limes (loomi), saffron, and cardamom, it’s aromatic and filling.
👉 Why You’ll Love It: The balance of spices makes every bite flavorful yet not overwhelming.
3. Balaleet
A unique breakfast dish, Balaleet combines sweet vermicelli noodles with eggs. The contrast of sweet and savory surprises many first-time eaters but quickly becomes a favorite.
👉 Insider Tip: Pair it with karak chai for the perfect Emirati breakfast.
4. Luqaimat
For dessert, Luqaimat are small fried dumplings drizzled with date syrup or honey and sprinkled with sesame seeds. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, they’re a Ramadan favorite.
👉 Where to Try: Street stalls in Dubai during food festivals.
5. Shawarma & Karak Tea
While shawarma is popular across the Middle East, the Emirati version—served with garlic sauce, pickles, and wrapped in soft Arabic bread—is iconic. Pair it with karak tea, a spiced, sweet tea influenced by Indian chai.
👉 Budget-Friendly Treat: Found in almost every neighborhood cafeteria in Dubai.
🌟 Traditional Qatari Dishes You Shouldn’t Miss
6. Machboos (Kabsa)
Similar to the Emirati version, Qatar’s Machboos is rice cooked with chicken, lamb, or fish, but with its own regional spice twist. It’s the most popular traditional dish, often found at family gatherings.
👉 Best Place: Souq Waqif restaurants for an authentic serving.
7. Thareed
Often called the “Arabian lasagna,” Thareed is a stew of vegetables and meat poured over crispy bread. It’s hearty and comforting, especially during Ramadan.
👉 Why Try It: Combines the flavors of a stew with the crunch of bread—an unforgettable texture.
8. Madrouba
A porridge-like dish made with rice, milk, butter, and spices, often mixed with chicken. It’s creamy and rich, with a unique flavor that makes it a Qatari comfort food.
👉 Insider Tip: Best enjoyed warm for a filling dinner.
9. Saloona
A traditional Qatari stew made with meat (often lamb), tomatoes, and seasonal vegetables. It’s usually served with rice or bread and is considered a family favorite.
👉 Where to Taste: Home-style Qatari restaurants around Doha.
10. Mehalabiya
For dessert, Mehalabiya is a rosewater-flavored milk pudding, topped with pistachios. Light yet aromatic, it’s a perfect way to end a traditional Qatari meal.
👉 Refreshing Treat: Especially popular in the summer months.
🥘 Shared Flavors Between Emirati & Qatari Cuisine
The UAE and Qatar share similar culinary traditions due to their shared Arabian Gulf heritage. Common themes include:
Use of Spices: Cardamom, saffron, cinnamon, and dried lime are widely used.
Rice & Meat: Both cuisines feature rice-based dishes like Machboos as staples.
Bread & Dates: Bread accompanies many meals, and dates are a symbol of hospitality.
Seafood Influence: Given their Gulf coastlines, both rely heavily on fish and shrimp.
🍴 Best Places to Try These Dishes
Dubai
Al Fanar Restaurant & Café (Emirati cuisine)
Logma (modern Emirati dining)
Old Dubai food stalls for Luqaimat & Shawarma
Doha
Al Tawash Restaurant (traditional Qatari)
Souq Waqif eateries (authentic local flavors)
Shay Al Shamoos (Qatari breakfast specialties)
🌍 Foodie Travel Tips
Eat Like a Local: Don’t just stick to luxury restaurants—explore souqs, cafeterias, and family-owned eateries.
Respect Traditions: During Ramadan, avoid eating in public during fasting hours.
Pair with Drinks: Try karak tea in Dubai and Arabic coffee (gahwa) in Doha.
Ask for Recommendations: Locals love guiding tourists to their favorite food spots.
✨ Why Food Should Be Part of Your Travel Itinerary
Food is not just about taste—it’s about connection. When you try Emirati Al Harees or Qatari Thareed, you’re tasting centuries of history, migration, and community spirit. For first-time visitors, these dishes offer a deeper cultural experience beyond sightseeing.
By including culinary tours or food-focused stops in your Dubai or Qatar travel package, you’ll make your trip truly immersive and memorable.
🏖️ Final Thoughts
Dubai and Qatar are more than glamorous skylines and luxurious malls—they’re places where food traditions are alive and thriving. From Emirati Balaleet breakfasts to Qatari Machboos feasts, every dish tells a story of resilience, hospitality, and celebration.
👉 So, the next time you plan your trip to Dubai or Doha, let your taste buds lead the way—you might just find that the best part of your journey is what’s on your plate.