Must Try Shawarma Spots in UAE

Shawarma is a Middle Eastern delicacy and a favorite among meat lovers and vegetarians alike. This delicious dish is made with succulent slices of meat or flavorful vegetarian fillings, wrapped in a soft pita or saj bread, often served with fresh vegetables and tangy sauces. Now, if that sounds right up your alley, or you already know how tasty shwarmas can be, let’s not waste any more time!

Whether you’re craving a quick bite or a satisfying meal, here are the top seven must-try shawarma spots in the UAE.

The Top 7 Must-Try Shawarma Spots in the UAE

1. Zaatar w Zeit – Dubai
2. Al Maidan Shawarma – Ras Al Khaimah
3. Shawarma Station – Abu Dhabi
4. Bab al Hara Restaurant – Ajman
5. Laffah Restaurant – Sharjah
6. Shawarma House Restaurant – Fujairah
7. Sikkat Beirut Restaurant and Cafe – Umm Al Quwain

Price range indicator (AED):

• A – Budget
• AA – Moderate
• AAA – Expensive

1. Zaatar w Zeit

Location: Marina View Towers, Marina View Tower A, Braih St, Dubai

Operating hours: 24/7

This casual Lebanese eatery is one of the most popular spots in Dubai for shawarma and a whole host of other Middle Eastern delights. With its simple yet buzzing atmosphere, in addition to a wide range of menu options, it’s solidified itself as a favorite for both locals and tourists. The shawarma here is wrapped in soft pita bread and served with fresh vegetables and sauces.

It’s also worth noting that they have a location in Al Barsha and at the Dubai Mall, so take your pick. If they don’t have exactly what you want, Al Ijaza Cafeteria, Al Mallah, and Operation Falafel are solid alternatives in Dubai, too.

Highlights:

• Shredded beef shawarma steak.
• Vibrant downtown Dubai location.
• Extensive menu with vegetarian options.

Price range: AA

2. Al Maidan Shawarma

Location: Al Nakheel, Ras Al Khaimah

Operating hours: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM (Sunday – Wednesday), 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM (Thursday – Saturday)

Al Maidan is easily the best shawarma in Ras Al Khaimah and that says a lot because of all the culinary options in the Emirate. This spot is known for serving up some juicy, flavorful shawarma that has been a hit among locals and tourists for some time now. Trust us, the tender meat combined with fresh ingredients and delicious sauces make every bite worth writing home about.

Highlights:

• Affordable prices – good value for money.
• Excellent sauces and very fresh ingredients.

Price range: A

3. Shawarma Station

Location: Shop 1, Plot, C 88, Mohamed Bin Zayed City, ME-10, Abu Dhabi

Operating hours: 10:00 AM – 11:30 PM

If you’re in Abu Dhabi and looking for Arabic fast food that doesn’t compromise on taste, then you’ve found your answer in Shawarma Station. With multiple locations across the city, it offers a wide range of shawarma options, so there’s truly something for everyone. People also love the restaurant because of its reasonable prices, generous portions, and consistently friendly service.

Highlights:

• Generous portions.
• Has an all-you-can-eat option.
• Wide variety of shawarma options available.

Price range: A

4. Bab al Hara Restaurant

Location: Ajman One Towers, Khalifa bin Zayed Street (opposite Dubai Islamic Bank), Ajman

Operating hours: 12:00 PM – 3:00 AM

Many people in Ajman flock to Bab al Hara to enjoy traditional Arabian and Middle Eastern cuisine. Why? Because they do a good job of ensuring each dish is rich in flavor, especially their juicy shawarmas. You’ll also feel incredibly comfortable while satisfying your craving, as the staff do their best to look after you and the decor is simple yet quite easy on the eye.

Highlights:

• Good portion sizes.
• Inviting ambiance with indoor and outdoor seating options.

Price range: AA

5. Laffah Restaurant

Location: Entifadah Rd, Al Majaz 3, Al Majaz, Sharjah

Operating hours: 11:00 AM – 3:00 AM

Laffah has a wide selection of options, most of which are bound to excite. But, their shawarma can be best described as the real deal. The Syrian cooking style also helps add to the experience and authenticity of the dishes. Plus, the welcoming atmosphere makes it a great spot for either a quick bite or a relaxed meal with family and friends.

Highlights:

• Authentic shawarma and roasted chicken.
• High-quality ingredients and Syrian-style cooking.

Price range: A

6. Shawarma House Restaurant

Location: Fujairah Mall, Al Nijaimat, Fujairah

Operating hours: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Saturday – Wednesday), 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM (Thursday – Friday)

One word to describe the food at Shawarma House Restaurant: flavorsome. Believe us, there’s a high chance that this could become your go-to spot in Fujairah. They offer ample shawarma options, from chicken to mixed grill platters, all of which have the right balance of spices to leave your taste buds wanting more.

Highlights:

• Lots of shawarma options.
• Convenient locations in Fujairah Mall and Fujairah Airport.

Price range: A

7. Sikkat Beirut Restaurant and Cafe

Location: FHW6+F9C, Al Etihad Road, near Etihad Roundabout, Al Muqta, Al Muqta 1, Umm Al Quwain

Operating hours: 7:00 AM – 2:00 AM (Saturday – Wednesday), 7 AM – 3 AM (Thursday – Friday)

And last but not least, we have Sikkat Beirut, another joint that’ll give you a good idea of what Lebanese cuisine has to offer. This restaurant is known for serving up some pretty tasty dishes, including mixed grills, shawarma, and a variety of traditional Lebanese appetizers. It also has a creative setting, inspired by Beirut’s railway station, adding to the experience.

Highlights:

• Authentic Lebanese food.
• Charming, railway station-inspired setting.

Price range: AA

FAQs

Where does shawarma originate from?

Shawarma’s history can be traced back to the Levant region of the Arab world, specifically during the Ottoman Empire.

What are the typical ingredients in a shawarma wrap?

Typical ingredients in a shawarma wrap include meat (grilled chicken, beef, lamb, or a combination), pita bread or tortilla, vegetables (lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickles), and sauces (garlic sauce, tahini sauce, hummus, or a combination). Also, shawarma is often served with french fries on the side or in the wrap.

Are there variations of shawarma across different regions or countries?

Yes, there are variations of shawarma across different regions and countries, particularly in terms of ingredients and preparation methods.

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s a delicious chicken shawarma or a falafel sandwich, these UAE shawarma spots have it all, which is why each is a must-try. These seven eateries provide a culinary journey that you’re not bound to forget. So, what are you waiting for? Pay these spots a visit and indulge in some of the Middle East’s richest flavors.