We couldn’t stop at one bowl. These 10 harees spots in Dubai are THAT good!
There’s nothing like a bowl of freshly cooked harees that instantly transports me back to my childhood. The creamy texture, tender meat, and comforting aroma feel like a warm hug, especially during cooler months or Ramadan evenings.
Whether you grew up with it or are tasting it for the first time, this timeless favorite is a must-try Emirati dish which can be aptly called “heritage in a bowl.” Did you know its roots can be traced back to the 7th century?
This porridge-like dish made from wheat and slow-cooked meat is simple yet deeply satisfying – a staple in Emirati homes and celebrations.
Find the best places to try harees in Dubai here!
1. Al Bawareh
Media Credit: @al_bawareh_mamzar
Website: https://www.facebook.com/albawareh
Address: 68 Al Khaleej St – Al Mamzar – Dubai
Contact: +971 4 296 9444
Hours: Open 24 hours
Price: 10 – 36 AED
If you’re craving harees late in the evening or early in the morning, it’s not a problem at Al Bawareh as they’re open 24/7! You’ll feel right at home once you step in with its warm and casual vibe, plus the bright food photos out front would make your mouth water!
They serve chicken and mutton harees available in 4 sizes, which is great depending on the number of people you’re with or how big your appetite is. Their harees is hearty, well-seasoned, and served piping hot, perfect for satisfying your comfort food cravings!
Al Bawareh is a popular go-to for locals especially during Ramadan. But since it’s open 24/7, cravings can be satisfied anytime with their diverse food offerings.
Pro tip:
- Al Bawareh is also a popular spot for seafood, so make sure to try their specialty dishes like grilled fish and sea bream.
- For those bringing a car, parking isn’t a problem since there’s plenty of accessible parking out front.
2. Kababi
Media Credit: @uaekababi
Website: https://www.kababime.com/
Address: Jumeira St – Jumeirah – Jumeirah 1 – Dubai
Contact: +971 52 126 4971
Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 8am – 12:30am
Price: 16 AED
Kababi is one of the best restaurants to check out if you’re looking for authentic Emirati and Iranian cuisine. And if you’re looking for harees in particular, you can get a warm, satisfying bowl for only 16 AED.
Their harees is creamy, flavorful, and cooked to traditional perfection – simple, hearty, and comforting.
If you’re dining with a group, we recommend ordering from their family grills menu that offers saffron chicken tikka, chicken tikka yogurt, meat tikka, mixed grills, and more.
Pro tip:
- If you’re dining with a big group, it’s best to book a table in advance. You may call them or reserve through this link.
- If parking slots are full, they have valet parking available for more convenience.
3. Al Qbabh Seafood Restaurant
Media Credit: @alqbabh
Website: https://www.instagram.com/alqbabh?igshid=10ghc8dy0p8vh
Address: Al Aweer, Dubai
Contact: +971 52 370 6894
Hours:
- Monday – Thursday & Sunday, 11:30am – 11pm
- Friday, 11am – 1:30am
- Saturday, 9am – 1:30am
Price: 26 – 73 AED
Another gem that offers mouthwatering seafood delights and authentic Emirati cuisine, Al Qbabh Seafood Restaurant also serves up some of the best harees in Dubai.
Their version is rich, perfectly textured, and generously portioned, a comforting contrast to their bold seafood dishes. Enjoy a bowl in a cozy traditional local village-inspired setting with comfortable majlis-style seating.
They also have private rooms, and the casual, family-friendly atmosphere makes it even better.
Pro tip:
- Servings are generously portioned so it’s an awesome spot for big groups and families.
- No need to worry about parking as there’s plenty of spots outside.
- Take note that the restaurant doesn’t serve alcoholic drinks.
4. Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant
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Website: https://alkhayma.com/restaurant/al-khayma-heritage-restaurant-dubai
Address: Historical Neighbourhood – 79 Al Mussallah Rd – Al Fahidi – Dubai
Contact: +971 55 180 2080
Hours: Monday – Sunday, 8am – 11pm
Price: 32 AED
If you wish to experience Emirati heritage at its finest, Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant offers delectable Emirati cuisine right in the heart of Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood. Notably, the restaurant has also been awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand!
The traditional courtyard setting sets the tone for a cultural dining experience, and their harees truly delivers – slow-cooked, flavorful, and made with love. It’s the kind of dish that transports you to a local Emirati home.
When dining here, one of their highlights is their breakfast trays. You can choose from their Emirate Breakfast Tray, Arabian Breakfast Tray, Asian Breakfast Tray, Egg Shakshouka, Emirati Eggs Benedict, and more for a hearty start to your day!
Pro tip:
- Another must-try dish is their Lamb Machboos, a bold and flavorful rice dish simmered with aromatic spices and tender chunks of lamb. They also have Chicken and Vegetable Machboos available.
- If you have limited time in Dubai, this restaurant is a must-visit as you can experience traditional cuisine, ambience, and even music. The restaurant is known for hosting cultural events and performances.
5. Harees Al Fareej
Media Credit: @hareesalfareej
Website: https://hareesalfareej-ae.com/
Address: Ground Floor, Q1 Mall, Al Khawaneej, Dubai
Contact: +971 4 273 5606
Hours: Monday – Sunday, 7am – 12am
Price: 21 – 315 AED
Harees Al Fareej is a go-to if you wish to enjoy harees at home without compromising on quality. They offer takeaway harees from small bowls for one, medium and large bowls for sharing, and even larger servings for up to 15 people.
So if you’re craving harees but prefer staying in, this place has you covered. Their harees is creamy, comforting, and packed with a traditional flavor that’ll remind you of home.
Apart from harees, they have a wide selection of authentic Emirati and Middle Eastern dishes as well. Pair your harees with bread, samosas, or biryani while sipping karak and munching on some crispy and fluffy luqaimat for dessert.
Pro tip:
It’s best to call ahead during peak hours, especially during weekends and Ramadan, as their harees may sell out fast.
6. Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe
Media Credit: @alfanarrestaurant
Website: https://www.alfanarrestaurant.com/
Address: Pond Park – Al Barsha – Al Barsha 2 – Dubai
Contact: +971 4 353 3733
Hours:
- Monday – Friday, 12pm – 10pm
- Saturday & Sunday, 8:30am – 10pm
Price: 25 – 68 AED
For those looking for an authentic Emirati experience while in Dubai, Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe is another local favorite that’s also frequented by tourists.
The best time to visit is for breakfast or brunch so you can enjoy their breakfast offerings in a charming, heritage-style setting. They have all-day breakfast, so visiting later in the day isn’t a problem either.
You can try their Build Your Breakfast Tray for 99 AED, perfect for sharing. And of course, their harees is a standout which is one of the reasons why people keep coming back.
Pair your harees with their karak tea, and your Emirati experience is complete!
Pro tip:
- Al Fanar also has branches in Dubai Festival City and Al Seef in case these locations are more accessible. But take note that the menus might vary.
- If you’re visiting during weekends or holidays, it’s best to reserve a table in advance as it gets busy, especially around brunch hours.
7. Al Qaiem Public Kitchen
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Website: https://www.talabat.com/uae/al-qaiem-public-kitchen/
Address: 46 22nd St – Al Quoz – Al Quoz Industrial Area 4 – Dubai
Contact: +971 4 323 2514
Hours: Monday – Sunday, 6am – 10pm
Price: 25 AED
You can find one of Dubai’s best harees at Al Qaiem Public Kitchen, with really affordable prices, too! They offer takeout and delivery and serve harees in various sizes.
We love ordering from this spot as they’re one of the cheapest places to get harees, but the quality is consistently excellent, perfect for a cozy meal at home or on the go. Apart from harees, they also offer biryani, curry, and Pakistani delights.
Pro tip:
- Their harees is very popular because of the quality and affordability, so expect long lines when visiting especially during peak hours.
- If you want to skip the wait, call ahead to place your order for pickup or use delivery apps. It’ll save you time and guarantee you don’t miss out before they sell out.
8. Al Shandagha Public Kitchen and Restaurant
Media Credit: @al_shandagha_restaurant
Website: https://www.instagram.com/al_shandagha_restaurant/
Address: Al Hudaiba – Dubai
Contact: +971 4 398 5776
Hours: Monday – Sunday, 8:30am – 11pm
Price: 25 – 420 AED
Al Shandagha Public Kitchen and Restaurant is great for ordering harees for big groups as they offer generous portions at reasonable prices.
Their harees is flavorful, smooth, and cooked the traditional way, making it a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or special occasions.
You can choose from different serving sizes depending on your group, and they also offer delivery for added convenience. Besides harees, they also serve a selection of other Emirati favorites like paratha, biryani, machboos, luqaimat and more.
Pro tip:
- It’s best to call them first to ensure availability before they run out.
- Planning a gathering? It’s best to pre-order large portions in advance to avoid delays and ensure everything’s ready when you arrive.
9. Arabian Tea House Restaurant & Cafe
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Website: https://arabianteahouse.com/
Address: Bastakiya Opposite Musalla Post Office – Al Fahidi St – Bur Dubai – Al Fahidi – Dubai
Contact: +971 4 353 5071
Hours: Monday – Sunday, 7am – 11pm
Price: 35 AED
Ready to start your day of exploring in Dubai? But before that, stop by at Arabian Tea House for a filling breakfast!
Here, you won’t just get your fill of authentic Emirati flavors, but you’ll also get to immerse yourself in the charm of Emirati heritage. Nestled within Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, this is the go-to tea house for those looking for a taste of Old Dubai.
Their harees is warm, flavorful, and comforting, perfect for a traditional breakfast. Pair it with their famous karak tea and enjoy it in the serene, courtyard setting for the full experience.
Pro tip:
- The Arabian Tea House is famous for their breakfast trays which are available until 12:30pm. Servings are generous so they’re perfect for sharing along with your hot bowl of harees.
- Try to arrive early, especially on weekends, as it gets quite busy and there’s often a wait for a table. But the peaceful courtyard setting is well worth it!
10. Al Jawareh Restaurant
Media Credit: @aljawarehrest
Website: https://www.zomato.com/dubai/al-jawareh-traditional-restaurant-muhaisnah
Address: Mir 5 Building – Al Qusais Industrial Area – Al Qusais Industrial Area 5 – Dubai
Contact: +971 4 267 9559
Hours: Monday – Sunday, 7:30am – 10pm
Price: 35 AED
Another place where harees are often raved about, Al Jawareh Restaurant in Al Qusais promises to take you on a gastronomic journey through Emirati tradition.
Known for their authentic flavors and home-style cooking, this spot is a hidden gem for anyone craving comfort food with local flair.
Their harees is slow-cooked to perfection, serving you a creamy, satisfying, and rich flavor with every slurp.
It’s a popular pick among regulars, especially during Ramadan. The restaurant itself is simple and casual, yet captures a traditional Emirati house, making it a perfect place for a relaxed local meal.
Pro tip:
- Aside from their harees, other must-try dishes include their briyani, mutton, grilled sea bass, and luqaimat. Their Arabic coffee is a must-try, too!
- The restaurant isn’t as busy in the morning as compared to dinner time, so it’s ideal time to visit before lunch time if you wish to avoid the crowds.