Cooking Classes for Tourists in UAE

The UAE is well-known for its abundant shopping, cutting-edge architecture, and rich heritage. Many people consider this country an epitome of luxury. It has beautiful cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah. All of them are unique jewels with a thousand-year-old history. But is that it? Not really. The UAE has more to offer, especially for the tourists. 

While you can indulge in upscale fashion and goods anywhere, being in the UAE calls for a pause. It is an opportunity to absorb the sea breeze and learn something new. The UAE is famous for its food, and you get the chance to learn some authentic dishes quickly. 

This experience goes beyond mere consumerism and provides a meaningful way to appreciate the essence of UAE’s identity. Whether you want to enjoy expertly crafted meals at an all star restaurant in Ras Al Khaimah or learn how to cook authentic Emirati dishes, sky’s the limit in the UAE. We have compiled five of the best cooking classes for tourists in the UAE to help you explore the country’s true culture. 

1. Apron and Glove, Dubai

Apron and Glove is a prestigious institute in the UAE. It serves as a comprehensive destination for students seeking to refine their etiquette, culinary arts, and housekeeping skills. It stands as an innovative concept in the world of lifestyle education.

But it’s not limited to students. They offer a diverse range of programs for kids and adults. Within its offerings, the boutique academy introduces the Hot Kitchen course, an immersive experience covering a diverse range of over 14 impressive cuisines. From Emirati to French culinary traditions, you can learn everything. 

Moreover, you will find pastry classes, a kid’s program, a seven-day baking program, a seven-day culinary program, and etiquette programs for tourists. All these culinary lessons take place in a well-equipped professional hot kitchen.

Website: https://apronandgloveacademy.com/

Address: 993 Al Wasl Rd – Al Manara – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

1. Top Chef, Dubai

Whether you’re planning to learn some authentic dishes in the UAE or just want to refine your existing skills, Top Chef is the best place to visit. Their hands-on chef is dedicated to teaching a diverse range of culinary techniques.

Throughout the experience, tourists can uncover new methods and recipes. You’ll also enjoy the process by building confidence in the kitchen. Each class features meticulously crafted menus, allowing students to recreate the recipes at home easily. They regularly update the menus to align with the latest cooking trends.

You can also take a 3 to 4-hour session based on a Haute-Gastronomie menu. You will also be exposed to Emirati, vegetarian, and vegan recipes.

Website: https://www.topchefdubai.com

Address: Villa 196, Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 1

1. Wagamama, multiple locations (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, etc.)

In multiple locations throughout the UAE, Wagamama, the acclaimed British restaurant chain known for its Japanese-inspired Asian cuisine, is turning weekend mornings into a culinary adventure for the city’s youngest gourmands. Offering more than just a delightful dining experience, Wagamama hosts exclusive cooking classes for children every Friday and Saturday, presenting an opportunity for little chefs aged three to 11 to explore the art of Asian cooking.

Under the guidance of Wagamama’s star chefs, these mini culinary maestros delve into a world of wholesome ingredients and age-appropriate kitchen tools, learning everything from fundamental food preparation to crucial health and safety practices. The sessions are a perfect blend of education and entertainment, where children don chef costumes and get hands-on experience in creating dishes like the restaurant’s famous chicken katsu curry or the mini yaki soba, complete with a refreshing Wagamama juice.

Priced at AED 50 per child, these 1.5-hour sessions are not just about cooking; they’re about instilling a love for nutritious food and fostering culinary creativity in young minds. For parents seeking a unique and engaging activity for their children, Wagamama’s cooking classes offer an enriching experience that extends beyond the kitchen.

Website: https://www.wagamama.ae/kids-cooking-classes 

Palm Jumeirah: +971 4 551 0192

Abu Dhabi Mall: +971 2 679 7466

Motor City: +971 4 575 5912

Khalifa City: +971 2 557 2647

1. Barista Master Class at Surge Coffee Roasters, Dubai

Attention to all coffee enthusiasts! You can indulge your passion for coffee at your place and level up your skills to become a self-sufficient barista. You will get the perfect guidance from Surge Coffee Roasters. 

In this class, an experienced barista will impart the intricacies of coffee-making, covering brewing methods and design techniques. You can learn to distinguish between various coffee beans to ensure you consistently achieve the perfect strength and flavor. 

This class will have a range of popular drinks, including latte, cappuccino, flat white, cortado, and macchiato. You can learn the art of creating a perfect cup with true flavors. 

Website: https://www.facebook.com/surgecoffeeroasters/ 

Address: Al Qouz Industrial 4 26 B Street, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

1. Apron Stories, Abu Dhabi

Apron Stories is a healthy cooking studio for kids and families. They support a plant-based lifestyle and offer different kids cooking programs. 

This vibrant culinary center is designed for children and families that foster a love for cooking. The main motive of these cooking classes is to encourage kids’ imagination in a dynamic setting.

This program applies to various age groups, from mothers and tots to teenagers. Additionally, they organize children’s holiday clubs and seasonal sessions featuring recipes and themed craft activities.

Apron Stories also conducts nutritional and themed cooking classes for women. They discuss and guide topics like creating healthy lunchboxes, maintaining a nutritious diet during pregnancy, and regional cooking demonstrations.

Website: https://www.apronstories.ae/ 

Address: 99 Channel St – Al Rahah – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates

Conclusion

Participating in cooking classes or workshops as a tourist in the UAE can be a delightful and enriching experience. It is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the region’s rich culinary traditions. 

The UAE boasts a diverse and vibrant food culture influenced by a fusion of Middle Eastern, Asian, and international flavors. Taking a cooking workshop allows tourists to go beyond merely tasting local dishes and provides them with a hands-on experience. This enhances the travel experience and allows visitors to bring back a piece of the UAE’s culinary heritage.

Furthermore, cooking workshops in the UAE often serve as a bridge between cultures and foster a deeper understanding of the local way of life. Tourists can gain insights into the significance of various ingredients, cooking techniques, and the cultural nuances associated with traditional Emirati cuisine.