Water Activity
Dishes You Must Try in the UAE
Ten Recommended Traditional Emirati Food
What is Emirati cuisine? This question might pop-up in everyone’s mind; it’s a delightful blend of Middle Eastern, Asian, and African influences, reflecting the country’s diverse history. If you are visiting the UAE, then tasting its delicacies is mandatory. Whether you plan things to do in Sharjah or discover things to do in Ras Al Khaimah, tasting these dishes will add a tasty dimension to your travel plans.
1. Al Harees
One of the oldest Emirati dishes is al Harees. Traditionally cooked for special occasions, such as Ramadan or weddings, the dish consists of wheat and very slow-cooked meat-they use either lamb or chicken and cook it for hours-distributing a creamy, porridge-like texture. Its richness gets easy seasoning: just salt and ghee, which lets the richness shine through in the meat.
If you are going to Sharjah and experiencing the rich cultural delights, definitely take time off and drop into local outlets that serve Al Harees as part of a heritage meal.
2. Machboos
Among the most loved dishes in the UAE is Machboos, essentially similar to biryani but with an Emirati twist. It mainly consists of the spirit of spiced rice, and it is usually prepared with lamb, chicken, or seafood, seasoned uniquely with the dried lime that gives the dish a tangy and aromatic flavor. Cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon spices boost the dish into something so memorable.
Ras Al Khaimah's food circuit is a perfect place to indulge in Machboos, especially if you want some authentic flavors during your visit.
3. Balaleet
Balaleet is a bit sweet and savory. It is the staple breakfast in every Emirati household. This vermicelli dessert is soaked in rose water, cardamom, and saffron and is usually topped with a fried egg for that savory touch.
Right after you have checked out the list of things to do in Sharjah, head out to one of the local cafés or restaurants to taste this sweet breakfast treat.
4. Luqaimat
For dessert, Luqaimat is a treat not to be missed for those who love sweet stuff. These are deep-fried dough balls that are crunchy from the outside and soft inside. They are usually served with date syrup or honey. They are among the staple items during Ramadan but can be found throughout the year.
Luqaimat can be found in most street food markets in Ras Al Khaimah. These little bites are simply great to have when taking in the natural landscapes of the region.
from
65,79€
47,11€
2 Hours
From 65,79€ 47,11€
from
52,37€
44,47€
10 Hours
From 52,37€ 44,47€
from
526,32€
394,74€
3 Hours
From 526,32€ 394,74€
5. Al Madrooba
A comforting Emirati dish, Al Madrooba is cooked salted fish with a rich, thick sauce of flour, ghee, and spices. Sometimes, it is a celebratory food, and the powerful flavor gives a sense of coastal roots from the UAE.
Have your day of visiting Sharjah with one of the traditional restaurants where you can view the richness of this city's history and culture while getting filled with a bowl of Al Madrooba.
6. Khameer
Khameer is a type of traditionally made bread with dates that have been sweetened and saffron; it is typically consumed with cheese or honey. This kind of bread is mainly devoured as part of savoury dishes or as a breakfast cuisine.
Sharjah offers many restaurants that serve Khameer with traditional Emirati food. For things to do in Sharjah, try this bread accompanied by either sweet or savory toppings.
7. Jasheed
Jasheed is a popular seafood dish, and primarily it is consumed in coastal cities like Ras Al Khaimah. It is prepared with small pieces of shark or other local fishes, onions, garlic, and spices to make an aromatic curry which is always served with rice.
Since Ras Al Khaimah is known for its wonderful coastal landscape, seafood fans should savor Jasheed at the local restaurants during or after the day of exploring the region's beautiful beaches and mountains.
8. Thareed
Often called Emirati comfort food, Thareed is the main course of stew with all kinds of meat, vegetables, and spices. This dish has a crispy layer of flatbread at the bottom, absorbing all the flavors of the stew. Each spoonful with a crispy layer at the bottom is rich and satisfying.
After a long day of visiting all the museums and cultural centers of Sharjah, go to one of the local restaurants and indulge in a serving of Thareed for a wholesome meal to regain energy.
9. Ghuzi
If you want something amazing, then try Ghuzi. It is a whole roasted lamb that goes on the bed of rice, flavoured with spices and garnished with nuts and raisins. For special occasions and large gatherings, the main dish remains ready to be served.
Ras Al Khaimah's finest restaurants have all of these available with all the traditional accompaniments, and you should certainly try them after visiting historic forts and natural landscapes.
10. Mehalabiya
Finish off your food tour with Mehalabiya, a light, creamy milk dessert flavored with rose water and pistachio. Pudding is a refreshing way to wrap up traditional Emirati cuisine.
Whether you find yourself wandering through the souks of Sharjah or standing atop mountain summits in Ras Al Khaimah, go into a local café and enjoy this sweet but subtle treat.
from
51,32€
39,47€
12 Hours
From 51,32€ 39,47€
from
39,47€
26,32€
6 Hours
From 39,47€ 26,32€
from
157,63€
105,00€
6 Hours
From 157,63€ 105,00€
Other Recommendations
1. Shawarma – While extremely popular throughout the Middle East, perhaps the best place to get your fix is in the UAE.
2. Falafel and Hummus – Nobody can visit the UAE without tasting these Arabic classics.
3. Dates and Arabic Coffee (Qahwa) – Don't miss trying these Emirati treats while bargaining over buying things at local markets or while sightseeing.
Emirati Cuisine
The UAE offers a culinary world that is as varied as the land, giving visitors a taste of its rich heritage. To make Sharjah special to you as you look for things to do here, or to give Ras Al Khaimah a soul of travel, taste traditional Emirati cuisine. From the comforting flavors of Thareed to the sweet indulgence of Luqaimat, every dish tells a story of history, culture, and community in the UAE. So, the next time you find yourself in the UAE, make sure to embark on a culinary journey that's as exciting as its modern attractions.
United Arab Emirates (UAE) is not only about fancy modern attractions and luxurious experiences but also a land with rich cultural traditions, especially when it comes to food.
