Emirati, Indian, Asian, Egyptian, and Lebanese restaurants abound in the UAE, along with other global dining options. However, there is no match for the variety of authentic Emirati street food restaurants in Dubai. The genuine spices, Gulf-inspired touches, and distinctive aromas of dishes prepared with exceptional skill and precision are unmatched. Explore with us in this article the most renowned Emirati restaurants in Dubai.
Emirati Restaurants in Dubai
Emirati cuisine is celebrated for its rich flavors, thanks to a wide array of Gulf spices such as cinnamon and saffron. Looking for Emirati food spots in Dubai? Let’s begin our journey together.
Siraaj Restaurant
We begin our overview of Emirati restaurants in Dubai with one of the most prominent ones—Siraaj, an official restaurant endorsed by Dubai’s rulers. It serves traditional Emirati and Middle Eastern dishes with delicious flavors and a modern twist unique to the restaurant. Located in Al Buhair Market in Downtown Dubai, the restaurant stands out with its interior design, blending classic Arabic aesthetics with contemporary elements, transporting guests into an authentic Arabian atmosphere. Its welcoming ambiance is perfect for families and individuals alike.
The restaurant features a standout menu crafted by master chefs, offering dishes like date salad with kail, crab kebabs, saffron-spiced chicken biryani, grilled prawns with spices, and more.
- Location: Al Buhair Market, Downtown Dubai
- Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM (daily)
- Contact: 052 267 3840 | 04 513 6205 | 04 513 6207
Asila Restaurant
Asila is among the most famous Emirati restaurants in Dubai, known for its vibrant atmosphere, modern interior design inspired by sand dunes, and high-quality service. Don’t miss the chance to visit this elegant venue, famed for serving some of the finest traditional Emirati dishes. Highlights include marinated seafood with rice, boiled crab with mashed peas and fennel salad, alongside delicious appetizers and local desserts.
- Location: Radisson Blu Hotel, Deira Creek, Dubai
- Opening Hours
- Friday: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:30 PM – 4:00 PM
- Contact: 04 205 7033
Al-Bait Al-Qadeem Restaurant
Adding to the list of popular Emirati eateries in Dubai is Al-Bait Al-Qadeem, one of the city’s top dining destinations, established in 1909. It’s cherished by Dubai residents for its historic ambiance, beautiful décor, and meticulously prepared gourmet dishes, served at any time of day—breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Signature dishes include chicken and Al-Bait Al-Qadeem specialty, rice with shabd and ful, meat platters, and machboos, along with unique Emirati appetizers, salads, and desserts.
- Location: Ahmedia Street, Al Ras
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM (daily)
- Contact: 056 333 3963 | 04 225 6111
Al-Khema Heritage Restaurant
If you’re seeking a luxurious Emirati dining experience in Dubai featuring exceptional traditional dishes, we recommend visiting Al-Khema Heritage Restaurant. Known for its breathtaking ambiance and interiors designed in the style of old-fashioned Gulf heritage, the restaurant offers warm, attentive service.
Located in the historic Al Fahidi district, Al-Khema is a comfortable destination for enjoying some of the best meals in Dubai. The chefs use fresh, carefully selected ingredients. The menu features a wide range of local specialties, meats, seafood, and extensive breakfast options including eggs, tomatoes, dango, and balayat.
- Location: Shoba Sfear Building, Commercial Bay
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM (daily)
- Contact: 055 403 943
Lugma Restaurant
How about visiting one of Dubai’s popular Emirati street food restaurants in Box Park? Steer clear of fast-food chains and instead explore Box Park Dubai, home to the well-known Lugma Restaurant. This Emirati eatery delivers mouthwatering Gulf dishes that delight every palate, enriched with fresh meats and vegetables. The restaurant also offers catering services for weddings, corporate events, social gatherings, and more.
When visiting Lugma, try their jabbah bread and khomer bread, Emirati-style chicken with rice, signature salads and sandwiches, and the famous saffron milk cake. Notably, Lugma has another branch located in Dubai Mall.
- Location: Level 3, Fashion Avenue, Dubai Mall
- Opening Hours
- Monday – Thursday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Friday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 AM
- Contact: 800 26465
Samat Restaurant
Looking for family-friendly restaurants in Dubai? Samat Dubai presents a remarkable representation of local Emirati cuisine to both residents and visitors. The restaurant emphasizes authentic traditional dishes served in a beautiful setting using fresh herbs and spices to enhance flavor. Of course, don’t miss the authentic Arabic coffee made from freshly roasted local Emirati beans.
The restaurant offers unique breakfast selections, including rakkah, mahya, and jabbah served with various cheeses and dips. The main menu features many traditional dishes such as prawns with mango pickle made in-house, salads, appetizers, and fresh juices.
- Location: Building 10, Dubai Design District
- Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 11:30 PM (daily)
- Contact: 04 580 2429 | 058 980 8320
Fanar Restaurant & Café
Fanar Restaurant & Café, one of the finest Emirati street food spots in Dubai, welcomes guests throughout the week and invites them to savor some of the most flavorful traditional Emirati dishes prepared by skilled chefs. The architectural style, traditional lanterns, and Bedouin sculptures create a striking visual appeal, while the scent of oud fills the air and captivates visitors.
The restaurant offers a diverse range of dishes across its branches scattered throughout Dubai, including a location in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi. For more details on the menu, visit the official website or social media pages for comprehensive information.
- Location: Al Seef Street, Al Hamriyah, Dubai
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM (daily)
- Contact: 04 396 6669
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Center for Civilizational Dialogue
One of the most unique and distinguished places to enjoy authentic Emirati traditional cuisine is at the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Center for Civilizational Dialogue. When visiting, you can enjoy Emirati dishes alongside your Emirati host, engage in friendly conversation, ask questions about life in Dubai, and learn about the lifestyle and benefits enjoyed by residents of the emirate.
- Location: House 26, Masjid Street, Al Fahidi Historic District, Dubai
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (daily)
- Contact: 04 353 6666
Al-Jalbout Restaurant
Visit Al-Jalbout Restaurant in Umm Suqeim, specifically on Jumeirah Beach Road. This is one of the most popular Emirati restaurants in Umm Suqeim, where you can enjoy expertly prepared, innovative takes on classic Emirati dishes that leave you craving more. The restaurant offers exclusive signature dishes and a varied menu tailored to satisfy all lovers of Emirati cuisine.
- Location: Souq Mall, Jumeirah Beach Road, Umm Suqeim 2
- Opening Hours
- Monday – Thursday & Saturday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday & Sunday: 9:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Contact: 04 321 5177
Milis Restaurant
Every Emirati dish has a story at Milis, a well-known restaurant overseen by Sheikha Al Kabi, a prominent figure from Abu Dhabi’s capital. She helped elevate authentic Emirati cuisine to a celebrated culinary tradition. The restaurant features stylish, luxurious seating areas decorated with motifs inspired by ancient Emirati culture, making it a favorite spot for friends and families during weekend outings.
The menu is extensive, featuring dishes like machboos, fish, hares, grilled chicken, and biryani, plus salads and appetizers. After your meal, be sure to try the desserts available in various forms—khobais, lighmat, esida, farnee, and bethitha.
- Location: Oud Al-Matina, Al Muzahra Third
- Opening Hours
- Saturday – Thursday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Contact: 04 257 1002
Local House Restaurant
The final entry on our list of Emirati restaurants in Dubai is Local House, the first restaurant to introduce camel burger as part of Emirati cuisine. Founded in 1997 in Al Fahidi Historic District within a restored old house, the restaurant preserves its classical décor. Since then, it has consistently earned praise and appreciation from visitors.
Among its popular offerings are a variety of seafood dishes, appetizers, salads, sandwiches, burgers, desserts, and even camel milk ice cream.
- Location: Al Fahidi Historic District, Dubai
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM (daily)
- Contact: 050 652 3032
You no longer need to search for authentic Emirati street food restaurants in Dubai—the options we’ve shared here are truly unmatched. If you’re a fan of Emirati cuisine and reside in Abu Dhabi, consider visiting Emirati restaurants in Abu Dhabi to enjoy your favorite meal.
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