Whether you are looking for authentic local Arabic cuisine or a twist of world flavors on your next trip to Dubai, you will have an endless list of culinary options to choose from with the city’s diverse range of restaurants. Dining out is a highly enjoyable part of the lifestyle here so make sure you get a good taste of Dubai when you’re next in town.
With over 10,000 restaurants in Dubai, it is impossible to give you all the recommendations for the best in class when it comes to different cuisines, dining styles and locations in the city, but we will try and give you some suggestions for not to be missed restaurant experiences for your next trip. These include everything from Friday feasts and desert dinners to beachfront breakfasts.
Don’t they know it’s Friday?
The weekend in Dubai is on Friday and Saturday, with Sunday being the first day of the working week. This may take some getting used to for some, but once you know of all the fun things to do on Fridays, it will be very easy to get into that weekend spirit.
Friday brunch is an institution in Dubai and unlike the name suggests, brunches in Dubai typically starts at lunchtime. Many of Dubai’s restaurants offer brunch on the weekend with most of them taking place on Fridays. After a busy week of work, Friday brunch is a great way to welcome the weekend, relax with friends and indulge in yummy food.
Whether you are looking for a family-friendly brunch with activities and entertainment for the little ones, a party brunch to celebrate that special occasion, or a high-end culinary extravaganza, you will find a brunch that suits your taste and mood at the many restaurants in Dubai.
Dinner in the Desert
A trip to Dubai is not complete without a desert experience. Whether it is dune bashing on a desert safari at sunset, an overnight camping trip away from the city lights, or a traditional evening of Arabic food and entertainment at one of Dubai’s desert camps, the Arabian desert is a must see.
For an authentic Arabian experience, book yourself a dinner in one of the well-known desert restaurants in Dubai or book a half-day safari trip that includes a desert dining experience at a desert camp.
A desert dining experience typically includes a wide range of traditional Arabic food and delicacies served buffet-style and featuring live cooking stations for Arabic bread, BBQ and Emirati specialty Luqaimat, which are crunchy, deep fried doughballs served with data syrup.
The evening will likely also include live entertainment featuring belly dancers and/or an Arabic music band. Many of the desert restaurants in Dubai also have a traditional market (souq) as part of the Arabian night experience where you can buy local souvenirs and handicrafts as well as enjoy camel rides, try a sheesha or get a Henna painting.
Beachside dining at its best
Dubai’s stunning beaches and wonderful waterfront locations are the ultimate spot for a leisurely breakfast, another favorite pastime of local Dubai residents. From casual toes-in-the-sand beachside cafes to chic buffet breakfasts at one of the many luxury resorts or beach clubs, Dubai offers beachside dining at its best. Make sure to check out the many restaurant options available on The Palm Jumeirah for spectacular views of Dubai’s skyline, in Downtown Dubai for the best views of the Dubai Fountains, or anywhere along Jumeirah Beach for uninterrupted views of the Arabian Gulf. Guaranteed a morning well spent.