Dubai is a food lover’s dream, where cultures from around the world come together on a single plate. From authentic Emirati meals to global street food, Article Table explores Dubai’s diverse culinary scene and highlights dishes truly worth traveling for.
The best part? Planning your food-filled adventure is easier than ever. With cheap flights available, this Dubai Food Guide helps you explore top dishes without breaking the bank.
Here are 10 mouth-watering dishes that make flights to Dubai worth every penny.
Al Harees – Traditional Emirati Comfort Food
A slow-cooked mix of meat and wheat, Al Harees is rich, smooth, and full of flavor. It’s especially popular during Ramadan and other special occasions.
Where to try: Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe
Travel Tip: Booking flight deals to Dubai in advance gives you more time to explore cultural food like Al Harees during traditional festivals.
Shawarma – Dubai’s Iconic Street Food
Shawarma is everywhere in Dubai — and for good reason. This delicious wrap, made with thinly sliced grilled meat, garlic sauce, and pickled veggies, is a favorite among locals and tourists.
Must-visit spot: Al Mallah or Eat & Drink Restaurant
Fun fact: Many travelers grab a shawarma right after landing, thanks to the growing number of cheap flights to Dubai arriving daily.
Mandi – Flavored Rice With a Smoky Twist
Originally from Yemen, Mandi is now one of Dubai’s most-loved dishes. Cooked in a traditional underground oven, the rice and meat take on a delicious smoky flavor.
Where to go: Maraheb or Bait Al Mandi
Mandi is a common dish offered on Dubai food tours, which you can easily add to your itinerary if you score good flight deals to Dubai.
Finding Cheap Flights to Dubai
Before we continue, here’s a quick tip: Use tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Hopper to find the best flight deals to Dubai. Flying midweek or booking a few months in advance can help you score the best deals—this Dubai Food Guide makes your culinary trip more affordable.
Machboos – Spiced Rice Done Right
Also called Kabsa, Machboos is a spicy rice dish cooked with meat, vegetables, and dried lemon. It’s a flavorful explosion you don’t want to miss.
Try it at: Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant
If you love rice dishes, make this a top priority on your trip. Look for early flights to Dubai and arrive in time for a traditional lunch.
Luqaimat – Sweet Dumplings with Date Syrup
Luqaimat are golden, crispy dough balls covered in date syrup and sesame seeds. They’re crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside — a perfect dessert!
Best enjoyed at: Local food markets or during the Dubai Food Festival
Many travelers plan their trip around food festivals. Luckily, it’s easy to find cheap flights to Dubai during off-peak seasons when these events happen.
Grilled Hammour – A Coastal Favorite
Hammour is a local fish that’s often grilled with herbs and served with rice or salad. It’s light, flavorful, and a perfect dish for seafood lovers.
Order it at: Bu Qtair Fish Restaurant
Seafood fans often take flights to Dubai just to try freshly caught grilled Hammour straight from the Arabian Gulf.
Stuffed Camel – Dubai’s Most Unique Dish
This Dubai Food Guide is perfect for adventurous eaters—featuring rare traditional dishes like stuffed camel, often served at weddings and festivals.
Where to find: Bedouin-style desert camps or private Emirati events
Want to try something truly rare? Combine a flight deal to Dubai with a desert safari that includes traditional meals.
Koshari – A Budget-Friendly Favorite
Koshari mixes rice, pasta, lentils, chickpeas, and spicy tomato sauce. Though Egyptian in origin, it’s a favorite among locals in Dubai, especially for a quick, satisfying meal.
Eat it at: Zaroob or Koshari Point
Many foodies who take cheap flights to Dubai love discovering budget meals like Koshari that don’t sacrifice flavor.
Falafel – Crispy, Herby, and Delicious
Falafel in Dubai is something special. These crispy chickpea balls are perfect as a snack or full meal when served with hummus and fresh bread.
Top picks: Operation Falafel or Arabian Tea House
Don’t underestimate the street food! Booking early flights to Dubai gives you time to explore the smaller, local joints.
Knafeh – Sweet Cheese Pastry
Knafeh is made with sweet cheese and shredded pastry soaked in syrup. It’s warm, gooey, and delicious — a must-try dessert.
Where to try: Firas Sweets or Al Samadi Sweets
Many visitors finish their Dubai trip with a sweet treat like Knafeh before heading back. Look for round-trip flight deals to Dubai to make the most of your travel.
Final Travel Tips for Foodies
If these dishes are calling your name, this Dubai Food Guide has you covered. With more frequent and affordable flights, your foodie adventure awaits:
- Set fare alerts on sites like Google Flights.
- Travel off-peak (May to September) for the lowest airfare.
- Bundle with hotels for all-inclusive flight deals to Dubai.
Start Your Food Journey with a Cheap Flight to Dubai
Dubai’s food scene ranks among the world’s best, and this Dubai Food Guide shows how you can experience it without overspending—thanks to affordable flights.
So grab your fork, book that flight, and get ready to eat your way through the city of gold!
