A lot of people love visiting Dubai for one reason or another. Whether it’s the extravagant hotels, luxurious shopping malls, pristine beaches – there’s something for everyone here. But if you’re looking for more than just the typical tourist experience and want to sample some traditional Emirati cuisine as well, well we’ve got your back, because we’ve compiled this list of local treats that we think every visitor should try during their stay in Dubai.
So without further ado, let’s get started!
Kunafa
A sweet treat you won’t want to miss is the well-known Kunafa. This dish consists of a crispy, shredded pastry and soft cheese. It’s usually served with pistachios and soaked in sugar syrup, which makes it perfect for those who prefer their dessert on the sweeter side! And with its affordable price tag as well, we couldn’t recommend it any higher for those looking to sample some Emirati cuisine!
Khabeesa
As soon as we say this next word your mouth should begin watering without even knowing what it is. Well, we don’t blame you because Khabeesa is in fact a very popular Emirati dessert and one that shouldn’t be missed!
It’s similar to the more western-style pancakes with syrup, but what makes it so special? The use of flour which isn’t used in most other desserts around this region for starters, also making it lighter than your average pancake. Let us tell you now – if there was ever such thing as an Emirati crepe, then this would be it!
Basbousa
Another sweet treat that you must try is Basbousa. This dessert consists of a soft cooked dough made from semolina flour, which makes it perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
It’s both healthy and delicious – what more could you ask for? And if the unique taste isn’t enough to encourage your tastebuds into giving it a go, then its appearance might just convince them otherwise. You really have no excuse not to give it a shot now do you?!
Umm Ali
Now on to one of the most popular Emirati desserts that is part of every other household – Umm Ali. It has an incredibly flaky crust, which is what makes it so much more worthy of being tried out. Made with bread that has been baked before being mixed in with milk and then topped off with crunchy cashews and raisins – we can assure you won’t want to miss out on this one.
Luqaimat
These are dumplings made out of yeast and flour, and are flavored with cardamom and saffron for a unique taste. These doughy balls are fried, then drizzled with a rich coating of date molasses, and topped with sesame seeds.
The Emirate desserts we have listed here are just a few of the many that Dubai has to offer. Whether you’re visiting for business or leisure, keep your eye out for these wonderful treats and enjoy them as much as possible!
