Embarking on a UAE holiday typically involves marveling at the country’s awe-inspiring skyscrapers, enjoying its pristine beaches, and going on exciting desert adventures. But more than that, experiencing Emirati cuisine should be on your list of things to do while on a UAE holiday, whether you’re visiting Ras Al Khaimah or touring other emirates.
What is the traditional food in the UAE? What is the national dish of the Emiratis? What is an Emirati main dish? These questions are sure to fill your thoughts as you go on a trip focused on finding out what makes UAE cooking unique and special.
From hearty breakfasts to aromatic main courses and indulgent desserts, traditional Emirati food is a celebration of tradition, culture, and flavor.
Traditional UAE food is sure to excite the palate of seasoned foodies and anyone curious about Middle Eastern cuisine. In this guide, we’ll take you through the must-try dishes that define the UAE’s culinary heritage — and where you can find them.
What Makes the Emirates’ Traditional Food Unique?
Emirati cuisine is deeply rooted in the region’s history. It blends Bedouin traditions with influences from Persia, India, and East Africa. The result is a unique fusion of flavors: spiced rice dishes, tender slow-cooked meats, fragrant breads, and sweet cardamom-infused desserts.
What makes it truly special is the Emirati way of using simple locally sourced ingredients like dates, fresh fish, and camel milk to create dishes bursting with flavor.
Now, let’s go over the Emirates’ traditional food you simply need to try.
1. Emirati Breakfast Food
Breakfast in the UAE is a delightful affair that often includes freshly baked bread, rich spreads, and spiced beverages. Quintessential Emirati breakfast dishes are:
- Balaleet: A sweet and savory dish made with vermicelli noodles cooked with sugar, cardamom, and saffron, topped with a thin layer of egg. The combination of sweet and salty flavors is comforting and unique to Emirati breakfast tables.
- Khameer: A type of Emirati bread that’s slightly sweet and fluffy, often served with date syrup, honey, or cream cheese.
- Chabab (Chebab): Thin Emirati pancakes flavored with saffron and cardamom, typically served with date syrup or cheese.
For an authentic breakfast experience, head to Skeek in Ras Al Khaimah. Known as one of the most highly recommended RAK restaurants, Skeek is renowned for its traditional dishes served in a cozy, heritage-inspired setting.
Another excellent spot is Logma in Dubai, where you can enjoy traditional Emirati breakfast offerings in a modern setting.
2. Al Harees
Al Harees is a traditional dish that holds a special place in Emirati culture, often prepared for weddings, religious occasions, and family gatherings.
Made with just three ingredients — wheat, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and a pinch of salt — Al Harees is slow-cooked for hours until it transforms into a smooth, porridge-like consistency. The dish is light yet incredibly satisfying, often served with ghee for added richness.
For a taste of authentic Al Harees, visit Al Fanar Restaurant and Café, with branches in Dubai and Sharjah, where the ambiance takes you back to a 1960s Emirati village.
3. Machboos
To answer the question: What is the national dish of the Emiratis? It’s machboos.
Often referred to as the national dish of the UAE, machboos is a spiced rice dish made with tender pieces of chicken, lamb, or fish. The secret to its flavor lies in the fragrant mix of spices such as loomi (dried lime), cinnamon, and saffron, combined with slow-cooked meat or fish.
For one of the best machboos experiences, head to Eayshat Awal, another popular restaurant in Ras Al Khaimah. This charming restaurant specializes in traditional Emirati recipes and is highly praised for its authentic take on this iconic dish.
4. Madrooba
Madrooba is a hearty dish made by cooking salted fish in a thick, creamy batter of flour and spices. The dish gets its name from the process of “madroob,” which means “to stir,” as it requires constant stirring to achieve its signature smooth texture. The result is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s an absolute must-try for adventurous eaters.
This popular UAE dish is frequently served for iftar during Ramadan and UAE festivals.
5. Thareed
Sometimes called Emirati lasagna, thareed is a dish that combines crispy Emirati flatbread (rigag) with a rich, spiced meat or vegetable stew. The bread soaks up the flavorful broth, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s a staple during Ramadan, enjoyed for its nourishing and comforting qualities.
Thareed can also be enjoyed at Skeek in Ras Al Khaimah, where it’s served with a traditional twist that reflects the warmth of home-cooked meals.
6. Shuwaa and Kebabs
Grilled meat plays a prominent role in Emirati cuisine, with two standout dishes:
- Shuwaa: A traditional slow-cooked lamb dish marinated in a blend of Emirati spices, wrapped in palm leaves, and cooked underground for hours. The result is melt-in-your-mouth tender meat that’s rich in flavor.
- Kebabs: Grilled skewers of spiced meat, often served with rice or flatbread, and a side of tangy yogurt sauce.
To savor authentic Emirati-style grilled meats, visit Arabian Tea House in Sharjah or Dubai which blends traditional flavors with a relaxed garden atmosphere. Siraj in Souq Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai is known to serve up awesome shuwaa.
7. Luqaimat
No Emirati meal is complete without dessert, and luqaimat is the star of the show.
These deep-fried dumplings are golden, crispy on the outside, and fluffy on the inside. Drizzled with date syrup and sprinkled with sesame seeds, luqaimat is the perfect way to end your culinary adventure.
You can find luqaimat at almost every Emirati restaurant, so you can sample it anytime.
8. Camel Milk Delights
Camel milk is an integral part of Emirati culture and cuisine, often used in desserts like camel milk ice cream or enjoyed on its own. Rich in nutrients and slightly saltier than cow’s milk, camel milk is a must-try for visitors looking to explore local flavors.
You can try camel milk products from leading brands like Camelicious, Camelait (Al Ain Farms), and Desert Farms camel milk in groceries and supermarkets.
Embark on a UAE Gastronomic Tour
Exploring the traditional food of the UAE takes you on a cultural journey that connects you with the country’s heritage and hospitality.
From the modern restaurants in Dubai to the traditional gems in Ras Al Khaimah, every emirate offers unique dining experiences that celebrate the country’s culinary legacy.
Ready to embark on your gastronomic adventure? The flavors of the UAE await!
If you’re planning a trip to Ras Al Khaimah, you can get a lot of helpful information about events happening in this beautiful emirate on our RAK calendar.
