Dubai is a city where traditions and modernity coexist, and nowhere is this more evident than in its vibrant culinary scene. As a melting pot of cultures, the city offers an extraordinary range of cuisines from around the world, but Arabic food holds a uniquely special place. Renowned for its rich flavors, aromatic spices, and generous hospitality, Arabic cuisine is more than just a meal; it is a celebration of heritage and a reflection of centuries old culinary traditions.
Whether you are wandering through bustling local souks, exploring chic urban neighborhoods, or indulging in the luxury of Dubai’s high end dining establishments, the city offers countless opportunities to savor authentic Arabic dishes. From the moment you step into these restaurants, you are greeted not just with food but with an experience steeped in culture and warmth.
If you are on a quest to explore the best Arabic restaurants in Dubai, prepare for a culinary journey like no other. Whether it’s juicy kebabs, tender lamb, freshly baked breads, or vibrant mezze platters bursting with flavor, the city promises an unforgettable dining experience that captures the essence of Arabia. In the sections that follow, we will guide you through some of Dubai’s top Arabic restaurants, highlighting places where tradition meets innovation, and every meal is a feast for the senses.
A Guide to Arabic Cuisine in Dubai
Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, and its food scene perfectly reflects that diversity. Among the many cuisines available, Arabic cuisine holds a special place for its rich flavors, aromatic spices, and centuries old culinary traditions. From savory grilled meats and flavorful mezze to sweet treats like baklava and kunafeh, Arabic cuisine in Dubai offers something for every palate. This guide will take you through the different styles of Arabic food or best Arabic restaurants in dubai you can find in the city, highlight regional specialties, and help you discover the must try dishes that make dining at Arabic restaurants a truly memorable experience.
11+ Arabic Restaurants in Dubai for Authentic Flavors
Dubai is a city where cultures, flavors, and traditions come together, and when it comes to food, Arabic cuisine stands out for its richness, aroma, and timeless recipes. From the sizzling grills of shawarma and kebabs to the fresh, vibrant mezze platters, Arabic food offers a culinary journey that is both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re a local, an expat, or a tourist, exploring Arabic restaurants in Dubai is a must, as each spot brings its own unique touch from traditional Syrian and Lebanese dishes to modern interpretations of Emirati classics.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up 11+ Arabic restaurants in Dubai that are known for their authenticity, exceptional flavors, and memorable dining experiences. Whether you’re looking for casual street style meals, fine dining, or family friendly spots, these restaurants promise to take your taste buds on a true Middle Eastern adventure. Get ready to discover the best Arabic restaurants in dubai where you can savor the real essence of Arabic cuisine in Dubai.
Arous Damascus
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Aroos Damascus is a well known best Arabic restaurants in Dubai with a few branches across the UAE. It brings authentic Syrian and Middle Eastern flavors to diners, offering a warm, casual, and welcoming atmosphere suitable for families, groups, and friends. The restaurant has been operating for several decades and focuses on delivering traditional dishes with generous portions and reasonable pricing. It is popular among locals, expats, and tourists who want hearty, flavorful, authentic Middle Eastern meals without the need for fine dining formality.
Specialties
- Shawarma: Juicy, perfectly spiced chicken and beef shawarmas that are freshly grilled and wrapped in soft pita bread.
- Grilled Meats: Succulent kebabs, lamb chops, and mixed grills cooked to perfection over an open flame.
- Mezza Platters: A variety of starters like hummus, baba ghanoush, falafel, and tabbouleh served fresh.
- Seafood Dishes: Traditional Syrian-style fish and seafood preparations with aromatic spices.
- Desserts: Classic Middle Eastern sweets like baklava and kunafa for a sweet finish.
Location
Al Safa Street, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Timings
- Sunday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Al Safadi
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Al Safadi is a renowned Arabic restaurant chain in Dubai, celebrated for its authentic Lebanese cuisine and welcoming ambiance. With a legacy spanning over decades, Al Safadi has become a household name for anyone looking to enjoy genuine Middle Eastern flavors. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, offering a menu that balances rich, hearty meals with lighter, refreshing options. Its interiors are modern yet cozy, with a family friendly atmosphere that makes it perfect for casual dining, family gatherings, or a relaxed meal with friends.
Specialties
- Grilled Meats & Kebabs: Juicy lamb, beef, and chicken kebabs, grilled to perfection and full of authentic Lebanese flavors.
- Mezza Platters: A wide selection including hummus, moutabal, tabbouleh, fattoush, and falafel, perfect for sharing.
- Seafood Dishes: Fresh fish and shrimp prepared with aromatic spices in traditional Lebanese style.
- Shawarma: Succulent chicken and beef shawarmas served with fresh vegetables and sauces.
- Desserts: A tempting range including baklava, knafeh, and other Middle Eastern sweets.
Location
Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Timings
- Sunday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Zaroob
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Zaroob is a vibrant Arabic street food-inspired restaurant in Dubai, bringing the lively flavors of Levantine cuisine to the city. Known for its colorful interiors, lively atmosphere, and quick service, Zaroob is popular among both locals and tourists who want a casual yet authentic dining experience. The restaurant focuses on fresh, flavorful ingredients and traditional recipes with a modern twist, offering a wide range of dishes from breakfast items to hearty dinners. Its bustling, cheerful vibe makes it an ideal spot for a quick meal, family brunch, or casual meet up with friends.
Specialties
- Manakish & Flatbreads: Freshly baked zaatar, cheese, and meat manakish that are soft, flavorful, and irresistible.
- Shawarma & Wraps: Tender chicken and beef shawarmas, served with fresh vegetables and sauces.
- Falafel & Mezza: Crispy falafel, hummus, baba ghanoush, and other traditional starters.
- Street Food Platters: A mix of Middle Eastern snacks like sambousek, fatayer, and more.
- Beverages & Desserts: Fresh juices, Arabic coffee, and sweets like knafeh to complement the meal.
Location
Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Timings
- Sunday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 AM
Falafel
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Falafel Restaurant is a casual dining spot in Dubai that has become a go-to destination for lovers of authentic Middle Eastern street food. True to its name, the restaurant specializes in traditional falafel dishes but also offers a wide variety of other Arabic favorites. With a simple, welcoming ambiance and a focus on fresh, high quality ingredients, Falafel provides a hearty and satisfying dining experience without the frills. Its affordability and consistent flavors have made it popular among students, families, and tourists alike, offering a taste of traditional Levantine cuisine in a relaxed setting.
Specialties
- Falafel Sandwiches & Platters: Crispy, golden falafel made from fresh chickpeas and aromatic spices, served in pita bread or on a platter with accompaniments.
- Hummus & Mezza: Smooth, creamy hummus, baba ghanoush, and other traditional dips.
- Shawarma & Wraps: Chicken and beef shawarmas prepared fresh daily.
- Grilled Items: Skewered meats and kebabs grilled to perfection.
- Desserts & Drinks: Classic Middle Eastern sweets and refreshing beverages like mint lemonade.
Location
Al Karama, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Timings
- Sunday to Thursday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Ninive
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Ninive is an upscale Middle Eastern and North African restaurant located at the base of Jumeirah Emirates Towers on Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. The restaurant blends traditional Middle Eastern décor, like low seating, lanternstyle lighting, rugs, and greenery, with a modern, refined dining experience. Ninive offers a “journey through the Middle East & North Africa” with dishes inspired by Iraq, Morocco, Turkey, Iran, and other regional cuisines. It’s known for high-quality ingredients, creative presentations, and an ambiance that is both cozy and sophisticated.
Specialties
- Mezze & Starters: Hummus, moutabal, tabbouleh, and other traditional dips.
- Grilled Meats & Tagines: Lamb, beef, and chicken dishes including slow cooked tagines and premium skewers.
- Seafood Dishes: Regional style fish and seafood preparations.
- Vegetarian Options: A variety of Middle Eastern and North African vegetarian friendly dishes.
- Desserts: Traditional sweets like kunafeh and umm Ali.
- Drinks: Cocktails inspired by Middle Eastern flavors, along with teas and traditional beverages.
Location
Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE
Timings
- Sunday to Thursday: 6:00 PM – 2:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 6:00 PM – 3:00 AM
Ewaan
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Ewaan is a renowned Middle Eastern restaurant located in the Palace Downtown Hotel in Dubai. The restaurant combines elegant, luxurious interiors with warm Arabic hospitality, offering a refined dining experience. Guests can enjoy authentic Arabic and Middle Eastern dishes in a setting that blends modern comfort with traditional design elements, making it popular for family gatherings, special occasions, and tourists seeking a taste of genuine Middle Eastern cuisine.
Specialties
- Mezze & Starters: Hummus, tabbouleh, fattoush, and other classic Arabic appetizers.
- Grilled Meats & Kebabs: Juicy lamb, beef, and chicken grilled to perfection.
- Seafood Dishes: Fresh fish and regional seafood specialties prepared with traditional spices.
- Shawarma & Wraps: Tender meats served in soft bread or as platters.
- Desserts: Middle Eastern sweets including baklava and kunafeh.
- Beverages: Fresh juices, Arabic coffee, and specialty drinks.
Location
Palace Downtown, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai, UAE
Timings
- Sunday to Thursday: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 6:00 PM – 11:30 PM
Olea
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Olea is a contemporary Arabic and Levantine restaurant located inside the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates in Dubai. It offers a modern dining experience while celebrating traditional Middle Eastern and Levantine flavors. The restaurant is known for its stylish interiors, warm ambiance, and high-quality dishes, making it popular among locals, tourists, and hotel guests looking for an authentic yet refined Arabic dining experience.
Specialties
- Mezze & Starters: Hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, and assorted Levantine appetizers.
- Grilled Meats & Kebabs: Tender lamb, beef, and chicken grilled to perfection.
- Seafood Dishes: Fresh fish and seafood prepared with traditional Levantine spices.
- Shawarma & Wraps: Flavorful chicken and beef shawarmas served with fresh bread and accompaniments.
- Desserts: Middle Eastern sweets including baklava and kunafeh.
- Beverages: Fresh juices, Arabic coffee, and specialty teas.
Location
Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE
Timings
- Sunday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM
Ibn Al Bahr
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Ibn Al Bahr is a popular Arabic seafood restaurant located in Dubai, known for its fresh seafood and Lebanese inspired dishes. The restaurant combines traditional Middle Eastern flavors with a casual, relaxed dining atmosphere. It is highly favored by locals and tourists looking for authentic Lebanese seafood and Arabic cuisine in a comfortable setting.
Specialties
- Seafood Dishes: Fresh fish, shrimp, and other seafood prepared with traditional Lebanese spices and cooking methods.
- Grilled Meats: Lamb, chicken, and beef grills with classic Middle Eastern marinades.
- Mezze & Starters: Hummus, tabbouleh, fattoush, and other traditional Arabic appetizers.
- Shawarma & Wraps: Flavorful chicken and beef shawarmas served in soft bread or as platters.
- Desserts: Traditional Middle Eastern sweets like baklava and kunafeh.
- Beverages: Fresh juices, Arabic coffee, and soft drinks.
Location
Club Vista Mare, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, UAE
Timings
- Sunday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Al Mallah
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Al Mallah is one of Dubai’s most famous Arabic restaurants, known for its authentic street style Middle Eastern cuisine. Located in a lively area, the restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike for quick, flavorful, and affordable meals. Al Mallah is particularly famous for its casual, vibrant atmosphere and consistently fresh dishes that reflect traditional Arabic flavors.
Specialties
- Shawarma & Wraps: Juicy chicken and beef shawarmas served in fresh pita bread.
- Falafel & Mezze: Crispy falafel, hummus, tabbouleh, fattoush, and other classic starters.
- Grilled Meats: Lamb and chicken kebabs cooked over an open flame.
- Manakish & Flatbreads: Traditional zaatar, cheese, and meat manakish.
- Desserts & Drinks: Sweet treats and fresh juices, including mint lemonade and Arabic coffee.
Location
Al Dhiyafa Road, Satwa, Dubai, UAE
Timings
- Sunday to Thursday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 AM
Al Shami Restaurant
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Al Shami Restaurant is a popular Arabic eatery in Dubai known for its authentic Syrian cuisine and homestyle cooking. It offers a warm and welcoming environment where diners can enjoy flavorful, traditional dishes prepared with fresh ingredients and classic Middle Eastern spices. The restaurant is especially loved by families and those looking for affordable, satisfying Arabic meals that taste just like home. With its casual atmosphere and generous portions, Al Shami Restaurant is a reliable choice for everyday dining.
Specialties
- Grilled Meats: Shish tawook, kebabs, lamb chops, and mixed grill platters cooked over charcoal.
- Mezze & Starters: Hummus, baba ghanoush, fattoush, muhammara, and tabbouleh.
- Arabic Shawarma: Chicken and beef shawarma wrapped in fresh bread or served as platters.
- Oven-Baked Dishes: Manaeesh, meat pies, and cheese pastries.
- Traditional Syrian Dishes: Kibbeh, stuffed vine leaves, and home-style stews.
- Desserts: Kunafeh, baklava, and other Middle Eastern sweets.
- Beverages: Fresh juices, mint lemonade, Arabic coffee, and tea.
Location
Al Qusais, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Timings
- Sunday to Thursday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 AM
Al Iwan
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Al Iwan is a luxurious Arabian restaurant located inside the iconic Burj Al Arab in Dubai. Its name means “Royal Dining Hall,” and the restaurant reflects that with grand golden columns, rich fabrics, and elegant Arabian décor. Al Iwan offers a refined Middle Eastern dining experience, combining traditional flavors with world class service. It is perfect for special occasions, family gatherings, or anyone looking for a luxurious Arabian culinary experience in Dubai.
Specialties
- Mezze & Starters: Hummus, baba ghanoush, stuffed vine leaves, salads, and other traditional appetizers.
- Grilled Meats & Main Courses: Lamb, mixed grills, and traditional Middle Eastern dishes.
- Seafood & Other Dishes: Fresh fish, seafood platters, and Arabian-style mains.
- Vegetarian & Vegan Options: Mezze and salads suitable for plant-based diets.
- Buffet & À-la-Carte: Options for lunch buffets and à-la-carte dinner.
- Desserts & Beverages: Traditional Middle Eastern sweets, fresh juices, and Arabic coffee.
Location
First Floor, Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Road, Dubai, UAE
Timings
- Lunch: 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM
- Dinner: 6:30 PM – 10:30/11:00 PM
Tips for Ordering Arabic Food in Dubai
- Start with Mezze: Begin your meal with small appetizers like hummus, tabbouleh, baba ghanoush, and falafel to experience a variety of flavors.
- Share Plates: Arabic food is often served family style, so order a few dishes to share for a more authentic experience.
- Try the Signature Dishes: Don’t miss popular items like shawarma, kebabs, grilled meats, and seafood specialties.
- Ask About Portions: Middle Eastern dishes can be generous; clarify portion sizes if dining alone or in small groups.
- Explore Regional Specialties: Lebanese, Syrian, Emirati, and other regional dishes have unique flavors worth trying.
- Pair with the Right Beverages: Complement your meal with Arabic coffee, mint tea, fresh juices, or rose lemonade.
- Save Room for Desserts: Traditional sweets like baklava, kunafeh, and Luqaimat are a must-try at the end of your meal.
- Ask for Recommendations: Don’t hesitate to ask the staff for their most popular or signature dishes; they often guide you to the best flavors.
- Respect Sharing Etiquette: When eating family-style, use shared utensils and try a little of everything for the full experience.
Craving More? Dubai’s Arabic Restaurants Never Stop Impressing
Dubai’s Arabic dining scene is constantly evolving, offering food lovers endless reasons to come back for more. Whether you’re a fan of smoky grilled meats, creamy mezze, freshly baked bread, or rich traditional desserts, the city always has something new to impress your taste buds. From humble street style spots to luxurious fine dining restaurants, each place adds its own personality, flavors, and charm to the vibrant food culture of Dubai.
Even after exploring the best Arabic restaurants in dubai listed in this guide, you’ll find that Dubai keeps surprising you with fresh concepts, hidden gems, new openings, and timeless classics that continue to shine. The beauty of Arabic cuisine here is that it never feels repetitive. Every experience brings a different aroma, story, and taste. So if you’re craving more, rest assured: Dubai’s Arabic restaurants are ready to exceed your expectations again and again.
FAQs About the Best Arabic Restaurants in Dubai
1. What are the most popular Arabic dishes to try in Dubai?
Some must try Arabic dishes including hummus, kebabs, shawarma, fattoush, kibbeh, lamb machboos, and kunafa for dessert.
2. Are there affordable Arabic restaurants in Dubai?
Yes, restaurants like Al Mallah, Damascus Restaurant, and Manoushe Street offer delicious Arabic food at very affordable prices.
3. Which Arabic restaurants in Dubai offer the best view?
Abd El Wahab (Dubai Fountain view) and Al Iwan (Burj Al Arab) are known for stunning views along with great food.
4. Are there Arabic restaurants suitable for families in Dubai?
Absolutely! Places like Al Fanar, Reem Al Bawadi, and Al Safadi are family friendly and offer a welcoming atmosphere.
5. Do Arabic restaurants in Dubai serve vegetarian options?
Yes, many Arabic dishes are naturally vegetarian like falafel, fattoush, tabbouleh, and stuffed grape leaves. Most restaurants offer a variety of vegetarian choices.