The Best Arabic Restaurants in Dubai
Fun fact for travelers: Ramadan, the 9th month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is all about fasting from dawn till sunset, ending the day with a special meal called Iftar.
Cities like Dubai light up during this time, offering delectable dishes for those breaking their fast. Arabic restaurants roll out lavish iftar buffets loaded with goodies like lentil soup, hummus, falafel, grilled meats, and sweet treats like baklava.
If you’re hungry for these scrumptious treats, check out our list of the top Arabic dining spots in Dubai below!
Where can I eat Arabic food in Dubai?
There are many places where you can eat Arabic food in Dubai. You can check out restaurants like ZouZou, Arabian Tea House, Al Hallab, Em Sherif Cafe, and Bebabel for some tasty and authentic grub.
ZouZou
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Website: https://bamenus.com/zouzou
Address: Jumeirah Beach Residence – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 564 0778
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 1 AM
Pricing: AED 50 – 150 per person
ZouZou is a hotspot in Dubai for those craving authentic Arabic flavors in a modern setting. With its chill vibes and awesome beach views, we think it’s perfect for family hangouts.
The menu offers everything from killer cold apps like red beet mutabbal (dip) to finger-licking rib bones. The restaurant offers unlimited tea as well, so you can sip to your heart’s content. Lastly, our favorite dessert here is the baklava—it’s a must-try!
We’re also fans of the fancy Arabic decor that’s both classy and cozy. For us, the mix of old-school and new-school architecture sets the mood right.
Pro tip:
If nature calls at ZouZou, note that there’s no restroom in sight. You’ll have to take a little stroll outside to find the nearest facilities.
Arabian Tea House
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Website: http://www.arabianteahouse.com/
Address: Bastakiya Opposite Musalla Post Office – Al Fahidi St – Bur Dubai – Al Fahidi – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 353 5071, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 12 AM
Pricing: AED 50 – 100 per person
At the Arabian Tea House, you’re in for a blast from the past! We like that it’s all about that authentic Arabic vibe, complete with turquoise benches and lace curtains that draw in families craving those rich Emirati and Arabic flavors.
We love that the menu hooks guests up with aromatic coffee and dishes out mouthwatering treats like the famous machboos (spiced rice dish).
Also, you can dig into some lamb majboos (rice with meat) or treat yourself to laqimaat (sweet fried dumplings) desserts. For us, these hearty options can fill your cravings real quick!
Pro tip:
After chowing down at the Arabian Tea House, why not take a walk through the old Persian quarter nearby? We think it’s a great way to burn those extra calories while soaking up some cool art and culture.
Al Hallab
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Website: http://www.hallab-babelbahr.com/
Address: 29 Burj Dubai Boulevard – Moh’d Bin Rashed Blvd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 456 2881, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 5 PM
Pricing: AED 100 – 250 per person
Al Hallab is all about coastal charm and mouthwatering Arabic seafood in Dubai. With inviting vibes and stunning sea vistas, it’s where you can chill and enjoy a great meal with pals.
We dig the flavorful menu, from the perfectly grilled sea bass to the aromatic seafood paella (rice dish). And don’t even get us started on the desserts—we recommend the mastic ice cream (resin-flavored from the mastic tree) to end on a sweet note.
Pro tip:
If you’re tall, you might find the tables at Al Hallab a bit cramped for stretching your legs. We advise dropping the staff a message before you go to see if they can sort you out!
Em Sherif Cafe
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Website: https://www.emsherif-cafe.com/
Address: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 56 577 7900, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 12 PM to 2 AM
Pricing: AED 300 – 450 per person
Em Sherif Cafe is the spot for legit Lebanese food in the city, channeling that homemade goodness with generous servings. For us, the Beirut-style decor gives off a major nostalgic feel. We’re all about the warm lights for a lush yet relaxed dining sesh.
On the menu, there’s a feast of mezze (small dishes), grills, and desserts. Our top picks are the tangy fattoush (bread) salad, creamy fettet (layered) hummus, and “merry cream,” a fun, swirly ice cream that might bring out your inner kid.
Pro tip:
If you’re not into shisha (smoking flavored tobacco) at Em Sherif Cafe, no worries! There are open windows and ventilation, so you can enjoy it without the smoke.
But if you opt for the smoke-free area, note that you might miss out on the bustling views and lively atmosphere of the front. Choose your spot wisely!
Bebabel
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Website: https://www.babelrestaurant.com/
Address: The Dubai Mall – Fashion Avenue – 1st Floor Financial Center Rd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 431 2333, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 12 PM to 12 AM
Pricing: AED 100 – 150 per person
Bebabel at Dubai Mall rocks Lebanese eats with a modern twist. The cozy wood-clad vibe screams home away from home, perfect for a chill lunch or dinner. This spot also seems great for a post-meal shopping spree—it has it all!
The menu goes from juicy beef, chicken, and lamb platters to fries and pickles—total comfort food vibes! Sure, there are no Arabic tunes or booze here, but we think the food might be good enough for you not to notice.
Pro tip:
Opt for the outdoor terrace at Bebabel to snag a view of the iconic Dubai Fountain. It’s a winning combo of delicious food and breathtaking sights!
Karam Beirut
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Website: https://thedubaimall.com/en/shop/karam-beirut
Address: Financial Center Street, Along Sheikh Zayed Road, Next to Burj Khalifa – Floor LG – The Dubai Mall – Financial Center Rd – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 339 9789, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 11 AM, 12 PM to 11:30 PM
Pricing: AED 125 – 200 per person
If you want to try something different, Karam Beirut offers classics with a unique spin. It’s famous for kibbeh nayeh (raw meat dish) and chargrilled specialties, showcasing the flavors of Lebanon that are Arabic in origin.
From classic hummus to its famous karam kabab (grilled meat skewers), we think each bite tells a tale of Lebanese culinary expertise. For savory flavor fans, we suggest not skipping the halawet al jibn (cheesy dessert rolls) as well!
Pro tip:
For a chill dining experience, aim for a table at Karam Beirut overlooking Ski Dubai. We feel you’ll enjoy your meal with the extra cool winter vibe!
Tagine
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Website: https://www.oneandonlyresorts.com/royal-mirage/dining/tagine
Address: One & Only Royal Mirage Palace – King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud St – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +97143152412, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 7 PM to 12 AM
- Monday – Closed
Pricing: AED 110 – 185 per person
Tagine takes you on a Moroccan flavor adventure with its rich spices and slow-cooked meats in Dubai. The lanterns and stained glass here set a comfy scene for guests to enjoy the restaurant’s top dishes, like the mechoui (slow-roasted) lamb shoulder.
We’re thrilled that it offers a breathtaking view of the marina and a menu curated by chef Greg Malouf. From silky hummus to the Moroccan lamb tagine (stew), each bite bursts with Middle Eastern goodness.
And though the portions look quite modest, we appreciate the complimentary bread and olives, which can keep hunger at bay. Plus, we feel that the live Moroccan music adds to the overall vibe.
Pro tip:
Catch live music and belly dance acts at Tagine! It’s best to contact the staff ahead of time to find out if they’re hosting any special performances, especially if you’re celebrating a birthday or a milestone.
Al Safadi
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Website: http://alsafadi.ae/
Address: 44GF+QW The Pointe – The Palm Jumeirah – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 600 500601
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 1 AM
Pricing: AED 100 – 150 per person
Al Safadi is a Lebanese place in Dubai that offers genuine Middle Eastern flavors. Situated at The Pointe, it treats diners to stunning waterfront views, adding a touch of magic to every meal.
The way we see it, the restaurant is a slice of Beirut right in the city, blending the best of both worlds. From classics like Hummus Beiruti to innovations like the chicken shawarma sandwich, we reckon it’s a feast fit for foodies!
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the outdoor space upstairs at Al Safadi in The Pointe, especially on a sunny day—it’s pure bliss with killer views!
Al Falamanki
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Website: http://alfalamanki.com/
Address: Jumeirah Beach Rd – across Four Seasons Resort – Jumeirah – Jumeirah 2 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 55 300 4550, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 12 PM to 4:30 AM
Pricing: AED 50 – 100 per person
Al Falamanki provides a charming Arabic joint with great interiors that will take you away to Lebanon. The cafe’s unique design and traditional architecture make it stand out for us. While you dine, we love that you can groove to the tunes of Fairuz as well.
We’re happy with the scent of freshly baked mankoushe (traditional Lebanese flatbread) filling the air. Besides that, you may also go for other staples like hummus and fattoush salads. Don’t miss the must-try baklava ice cream sandwich too!
Pro tip:
Feeling like watching a game or competing with friends? At Al Falamanki, you can enjoy your favorite football match or challenge your friends to a board game while you dine!
Bab Al Mansour
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Website: http://babalmansour.ae/
Address: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 350 9440, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 6 PM to 1:30 AM
Pricing: AED 150 – 500 per person
Tucked in Dubai’s heart, Bab Al Mansour serves up Moroccan delights that we deem fit for royalty. Its palace-like ambiance and intricate designs whisk diners away to a regal world of kaleidoscopic patterns and ornate woodwork.
We’re in awe of the menu, curated from over 70 Moroccan ingredients! If you feel overwhelmed with all the options, we recommend treating yourself to crispy chicken pastilla (meat-filled pastry dish) and fragrant mint tea for starters.
And since the restaurant is conveniently close to the Burj Khalifa, we believe it’s a go-to spot for a laid-back yet lavish dining experience with sightseeing nearby.
Pro tip:
Don’t sweat the parking when heading to Bab Al Mansour—you may use the valet service right by the Burj Khalifa for an easy-breezy arrival.