Dubai’s Breakfast: A Guide to the Typical Morning Meals
Ever tried camel milk for breakfast in Dubai? It’s not just unique and incredible—it’s a healthy choice packed with protein, calcium, iron, and vitamin C, and a great way to start your day!
If you’re ready for a morning flavor fiesta, let’s dive into what a typical Dubai breakfast has to offer below.
Balaleet
Balaleet is like a superstar breakfast in Dubai and across the UAE, mixing sweet and salty in a flavorful way. It’s an appetizer with thin noodles getting a quick fry, all while mingling with a spiced-up omelet.
Dubai’s culinary mix is all over this dish, from the silky eggs to the noodle crunch. And don’t forget the pistachios on top, adding a tasty crunch to the chewy noodles!
Lugaimat
Lugaimat is a little ball of joy that steals the show at gatherings at Dubai’s breakfast. Picture this: golden-brown dumplings, crispy on the outside, and oh-so-puffy inside. They’re made from a batter that gets deep-fried to perfection!
What’s the secret sauce, you ask? Date syrup or honey, making them sweet and sticky.
They’re like the dessert finale to a breakfast feast, bringing that warm Emirati hospitality vibe to your taste buds.
Machboos
Machboos is a go-to dish in Dubai and the Middle East, especially for a hearty breakfast. It’s flavorful with rice, meat (chicken, lamb, or fish), and a whole gang of spices—saffron, black lime, cinnamon, and turmeric.
Cooked until the rice is fluffy perfection, it’s a hearty, can’t-get-enough-of-it meal that Dubai swears by. Machboos is basically the Middle Eastern equivalent of a warm hug on a plate!
Labneh
Labneh is a breakfast champ in Dubai! Think of it like a tangy cream cheese with a Middle Eastern twist. It’s made by straining yoghurt and waving goodbye to the whey, and what’s left is a creamy dream.
Top it with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of Za’atar herb, and it’s best friends with fresh bread in Dubai. Whether you’re having a chill morning or going all out for a fancy appetizer, Labneh does it all with flair.
Foul
Foul is the unsung hero of Dubai’s breakfast scene. Imagine stewed fava beans getting cozy with cumin, garlic, and lemon juice. The result is a burst of flavors that’s delicious and fulfilling.
Packed with protein, it’s the perfect kickstart for your day. Grab some warm flatbread, scoop it up, and you’re in for a treat! You may also top it off with chopped tomatoes, parsley, and onions for that extra crunch and zest.
Chebab Pancakes
Meet Chebab pancakes, the Emirati sweet morning magic. These pancakes have a hint of fermentation, a touch of turmeric aroma, and a sweet date vibe. They also have crispy edges and fluffy centers—basically, breakfast perfection!
If you want to take it to the next level, drizzle some honey or date syrup on top! And if you’re feeling fancy, pair these pancakes with cream cheese for that sweet-meets-balanced goodness!
Thareed
Thareed is a classic dish many Dubai locals enjoy for a typical breakfast. It brings cozy stew vibes with a twist—served over layers of thin flatbread. The bread then soaks up a rich, savory broth filled with tender meat and a mix of veggies.
It’s comfort food at its finest, meant for sharing with the family. In the world of Dubai breakfasts, this bread soup embodies the warm, communal spirit of local culture.
Balila
Balila is a dish celebrating the goodness of chickpeas and is a fantastic source of protein and fiber for a wholesome Emirati breakfast.
Cook it until tender, then mix in lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil for that rich, tangy vibe—total comfort food! Then, serve it up warm and sprinkle a touch of cumin or paprika for that extra flair.
Oh, and when Ramadan rolls around, consider it a staple that brings both comfort and flavor to the breakfast table.
Cheese Varieties
Dubai’s breakfast cheese is a global flavor adventure. Meet Labneh—creamy and mild, and Shanklish—pungent and crumbly. It’s like a cheese universe with different textures and tastes!
You can pair them with fresh veggies, olives, and all sorts of bread, and voila! Your breakfast becomes a colorful and flavorful feast.
Ham and Butter
Ham and butter might not scream a traditional Emirati dish, but they sure shout “international vibes”. Picture thin slices of ham, a hint of salt, and creamy butter on fresh bread—it’s Dubai’s simple yet satisfying nod to a continental-style breakfast!
Sometimes, you just need that perfect combo to start your day, and Dubai’s got you covered with a taste of the world on your plate.
Shanklish
Shanklish is the bold, mature cheese that adds a punch of flavor to a typical breakfast in Dubai.
Picture it as balls of cheesy goodness rolled in herbs or spices. The flavour is sharp and tangy, with a twist that depends on how long it’s been fermented and the herbs in the mix.
In the city, it’s the salad MVP or the perfect bread companion, bringing a bold kick to your first meal. It’s breakfast with attitude!
Halawah
Halawah (also known as Halva) is a delightful Dubai breakfast treat, like a sweet hug in a block. It’s a dense, sweet concoction made from sesame paste, nut butter, and sugar.
Want to level up the flavor? Just toss in some pistachios, almonds, or chocolate, and you’re all set!
You can enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee, and it’s the perfect duo! In Dubai, Halawah is the sweet finale to a morning meal because, let’s be honest, every morning needs a bit of sweetness.
Fouga
Fouga, a traditional Emirati dish, involves cooking rice with meat or fish and special spices. This Dubai breakfast food is typically paired with a sauce made from tomatoes, garlic, and chili.
This dish is an all-rounder too! You can enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, depending on your mood.
Asidat Bobar
Asidat Bobar is a tasty Emirati treat that you can enjoy for a sweet breakfast in Dubai. It’s made with pumpkin, sugar, cardamom, saffron, and rose water. It’s chilled, topped with nuts and raisins, and best enjoyed with a spoon.
You can enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert. Plus, it’s not just delicious; it’s a nutritious way to get the goodness of fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants from pumpkin.
Khameer
Khameer is a classic Emirati bread, usually enjoyed for breakfast in Dubai with fresh cheese, honey, or date paste. It’s a sweet yeast bread with dates, and it gets its tasty touch from saffron, cardamom, and fennel seeds.
Cooked on a pan, it has a golden crust on the outside and a soft inside. People in Dubai and across the UAE adore Khameer—it’s like a unique slice of Emirati culture right on your breakfast plate!
Shakshouka
Shakshouka is a tasty breakfast dish enjoyed in Dubai and across the Middle East and North Africa. It’s all about eggs poached in a zesty tomato sauce with onions, peppers, garlic, and spices.
Its name means “mixed” or “shaken” in Arabic. People often eat it with bread to soak up the sauce, and you can add cheese or herbs for more flavor. It’s both tasty and healthy!
Best Places for a Typical Breakfast with a View in Dubai
Al Fanar Restaurant and Cafe
Address: Ground Floor, Dubai Festival City Mall
Phone: +971 4 232 9966
Pricing: $$
For a taste of typical Emirati breakfast and culture, head to Al Fanar Restaurant and Cafe. Dive into a delicious breakfast featuring classics like Balaleet, Chebab, and Fouga, all while the staff shares tales about old Dubai.
The place is decked out with cool vintage stuff, giving it a nostalgic feel. Whether you choose to enjoy the views of the Dubai Festival City waterfront and skyline from inside or outside, it’s a fantastic spot to soak up the local flavor.
Seven Sands
Address: Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai
Phone: +971 4 385 5003
Pricing: $$
Seven Sands is a Dubai restaurant that honors the delicious food from each of the seven emirates. Feast on tasty dishes like Jisheed, Machboos, and Madrooba for breakfast, all crafted with fresh local ingredients.
The view here is also breathtaking! You can gaze at the Arabian Gulf and Jumeirah Beach Residence from the outdoor terrace, or catch the culinary magic at the live cooking stations inside.
Logma
Address: Dubai Mall
Phone: +971 4 241 5557
Pricing: $$
Logma is a café offering a modern take on traditional Emirati food. They’re putting a fresh spin on classics like Shakshouka, Khameer, and Lugaimat, giving you an Emirati breakfast with a contemporary vibe.
Don’t forget to sip on their Karak tea or camel milk coffee while enjoying the spectacular views of the Dubai Mall fountain and the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world.
Aseelah
Address: Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai
Phone: +971 4 205 7033
Pricing: $$$
Aseelah is a restaurant that celebrates the vibrant Emirati culture. They serve Dubai breakfast with traditional dishes like Machboos, Thareed, and Asidat Bobar, all cooked with authentic recipes and spices.
While you eat, you can enjoy views of Dubai Creek and the skyline from indoor or outdoor seating. And to make it even more special, the restaurant spices things up with live entertainment and cultural shows.
Tips for Enjoying Typical Breakfast in Dubai
So, you’ve decided to dive into the diverse breakfast scene in Dubai? Here are some tips to make your morning meal unforgettable:
Explore the hotel buffets
Indulge in Dubai’s luxurious hotel breakfast buffets, offering lots of international dishes, gourmet spreads, and freshly baked pastries. It’s a lavish start to your day!
Opt for a seaside breakfast
Enjoy your breakfast with breathtaking views! Look for beachside cafes or restaurants that offer delicious morning options.
Explore the food truck scene
Dubai’s food truck culture is thriving. Hunt for breakfast trucks serving up freshly brewed coffee, gourmet sandwiches, or refreshing juices.
Visit a local market
Start your morning with a trip to vibrant markets like the Spice Souk or the Deira Fish Market. Discover fresh bread, local fruits, and aromatic spices to create your own unique breakfast.
Enjoy a Dubai-style brunch
Why not enjoy some brunch food? Many restaurants offer elaborate brunch buffets with live cooking stations and entertainment, creating a lively atmosphere to begin your day.
Plan for a leisurely breakfast
Dubai values relaxation. Take your time to enjoy breakfast and the company of your friends or family. Dedicate a little extra time to fully embrace the experience!
Be open to new experiences
Dubai’s food scene is diverse, so be open to trying something new. Explore fusion restaurants, breakfast spots with unique twists, or lesser-known gems. Embrace the culinary adventure!
Remember, breakfast in Dubai isn’t just a meal; it’s a journey through flavors and cultures, so dive in and indulge in every bite. Bon appétit!