Dubai’s Favorite Street Food: A Flavorful Journey Through the Emirate’s Most-Loved Dishes

When you think of Dubai, what comes to mind first? Perhaps it’s the towering Burj Khalifa, the luxurious shopping malls, or the glittering desert safaris. But beyond the glitz and glamour lies one of the city’s most authentic and irresistible treasures — its vibrant street food culture. For both residents and tourists, street food in Dubai isn’t just about eating on the go. It’s a flavorful expression of the city’s diverse identity — where Emirati tradition meets the culinary influences of Lebanon, India, Yemen, and beyond.

Street food in Dubai tells a story. It’s the aroma of shawarma sizzling on a spit as you stroll through Al Rigga. It’s the comfort of a steaming cup of Karak tea shared with friends during a late-night drive. It’s the crispy first bite of a samboosa at a Ramadan night market, or the smoky flavors of mandi savored during a family gathering.

What makes Dubai’s street food scene so special is its accessibility and inclusiveness. Whether you’re dining at a bustling market stall, grabbing a quick snack from a roadside kiosk, or exploring food trucks at trendy festivals, you’ll find that these dishes are more than just affordable — they’re packed with history, tradition, and soul. Each bite invites you to experience the city’s rich cultural fabric, one dish at a time.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a delicious journey through some of Dubai’s most beloved street foods. From classic Emirati favorites like Al Machboos and Khuzi, to multicultural delights like Manousheh, Shish Tawook, and the ever-popular Oman Chips Roll — this list has something for every craving.

Ready to discover the tastiest side of Dubai? Let’s dive in and explore the street foods that define the city’s spirit, flavor, and generosity. Don’t forget — we’ve got exclusive Dubai food coupons to make your street food adventure even sweeter!

1. Tabbouleh: The Fresh, Zesty Lebanese Salad

One of the healthiest street foods you’ll find in Dubai is Tabbouleh — a refreshing Lebanese salad that’s perfect for the city’s warm climate. Made with finely chopped parsley, fresh mint, tomatoes, cucumber, bulgur wheat, and drizzled with lemon juice and olive oil, Tabbouleh is a burst of color and flavor.

Pro Tip: Pair it with grilled chicken, avocado slices, or crumbled feta for a wholesome street-style meal.

Where to Try Tabbouleh in Dubai?

• Zaroob: Famous for its authentic Levantine flavors served in a casual, street-style setting.

2. Shawarma: Dubai’s All-Time Street Food King

When it comes to street food, no list is complete without Shawarma . This iconic Middle Eastern wrap has become a staple across Dubai’s food stalls. Slow-roasted chicken, beef, or lamb — marinated for hours in rich spices — is shaved off the spit and wrapped in warm pita or flatbread, topped with garlic sauce, tahini, pickles, and sometimes fries.

Why Dubai Loves Shawarma?
It’s affordable, filling, and available at nearly every corner, from posh cafés to humble food trucks.

Best Spots for Shawarma in Dubai

• Al Mallah (Satwa) — Legendary for its juicy shawarmas.
• Aroos Damascus (Deira) — A favorite for both locals and expats.

3. Al Machboos: A Taste of Emirati Heritage

Al Machboos, also known as Majboos, is one of Dubai’s signature dishes. This flavorful rice dish is cooked with tender meat (usually chicken, lamb, or shrimp) and infused with Emirati spices and dried limes (loomi), giving it a distinct tangy taste.

Street-style Tip: Although often found in restaurants, you’ll also come across food trucks and pop-up stalls during festivals serving Machboos in eco-friendly containers for an authentic taste on the go.

Best Place to Try

• Al Fanar Restaurant & Café — Known for serving traditional Emirati dishes in a nostalgic setting.

4. Khuzi: The National Dish of UAE

If you want to savor the true flavor of Dubai , Khuzi is a must-try. This grand dish features slow-roasted lamb or goat served on a bed of aromatic rice, garnished with nuts, raisins, and a hint of saffron. Often prepared during special occasions, Khuzi is also found at street food festivals and local gatherings.

Where to Savor Khuzi?

• Seven Sands
• Asselah Restaurant

Fun Fact: In Dubai, Khuzi is often enjoyed with a side of tangy yogurt or fresh salad to balance its richness.

5. Oman Chips Roll: The Emirati Snack Obsession

Simple, crunchy, and spicy — the Oman Chips Roll is Dubai’s answer to a quick, addictive street snack. This roll typically includes crushed spicy Oman chips, cheese spread, and a drizzle of hot sauce, all wrapped in a soft paratha or chapati. You’ll spot this favorite at school canteens, food trucks, and street-side cafés.

Best Place to Eat:
Almost any local cafeteria or street vendor across Dubai offers their unique spin on this beloved snack.

Customize it: Add chicken, egg, or even fries for extra indulgence!

6. Shish Tawook Sandwich: A Juicy Middle Eastern Classic

If you’re in the mood for a satisfying street-side sandwich, the Shish Tawook is a top pick. Tender chicken pieces are marinated in yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and a blend of Middle Eastern spices (like paprika, cinnamon, and oregano), then skewered and grilled to perfection.

The chicken is tucked into warm bread (often pita or saj), along with crisp lettuce, pickles, and garlic sauce.

Best Spots in Dubai

• Burj Al Hamam
• Al Hallab Restaurant

Coupon Tip: Many local eateries offer combo deals with fries and a drink — a great way to save while indulging.

7. Mandi: Yemen’s Gift to Dubai’s Food Scene

Mandi is often compared to biryani, but its preparation is entirely unique. Traditionally, the marinated meat (lamb or chicken) is slow-cooked in an underground clay oven, giving it a smoky, tender texture. The fragrant rice is cooked separately with a medley of spices, nuts, and raisins.

Festival Favorite: Mandi is especially popular during Ramadan and Eid across Dubai’s street markets and food fairs.

Best Places for Mandi

• Zam Zam Mandi
• Madfoon Al Khaimah

8. Manousheh: The Arab Breakfast Pizza

Dubai’s street vendors know how to make mornings delicious with Manousheh . This flatbread is topped with Za’atar (a special Middle Eastern herb mix), cheese, and optional toppings like minced lamb or vegetables.

Grab-n-Go: Whether rolled up like a wrap or served open-faced like a pizza, Manousheh is a breakfast or snack-time favorite.

Where to Try It

• Al Reef Lebanese Bakery
• Manoushe Street
• Al Safadi

9. Al Harees: The One-Pot Emirati Wonder

Rich, hearty, and full of history — Al Harees is made with wheat, salt, and meat (usually chicken or lamb). The ingredients are slow-cooked together for hours, creating a porridge-like consistency. It’s often served with ghee and spiced onions for extra flavor.

When to Try: Commonly enjoyed during Ramadan and special occasions — but available at traditional Emirati food trucks and restaurants.

Where to Eat

• Khaneen Restaurant
• Al Barza Café

10. Samboosa: The Crispy Triangle Loved Across Dubai

The Samboosa is Dubai’s street food superstar during the holy month of Ramadan, but it’s a year-round favorite too. With its thin, crisp pastry shell stuffed with delicious fillings, Samboosa is a snack that perfectly captures Dubai’s fusion of cultures.

What makes Samboosa in Dubai special?
In Dubai, you’ll find Samboosas filled not just with the usual minced meat or potatoes, but with local twists — like spiced cheese, chicken tikka, or even sweet options like dates and nuts! Vendors often serve them with tamarind chutney or garlic sauce for a tangy kick.

When to Try?
Evening street markets during Ramadan come alive with Samboosa stalls, but you’ll also spot them in cafeterias, food courts, and roadside tea stalls throughout the year.

Where to Eat?

• Spinzer (Karama) — Known for its variety of fillings
• Farzi Café — For a gourmet version
• Logma — Modern Emirati take on this classic

11. Karak: More Than Just Tea — It’s a Dubai Tradition

Karak isn’t just a drink in Dubai — it’s a way of life. This strong, sweet, spiced tea originated from South Asian influences but has become part of the Emirati identity. Karak stalls are everywhere: from tiny roadside kiosks to trendy cafés.

What’s in Karak?
The secret lies in its rich blend: black tea simmered with cardamom, cloves, saffron, and thick evaporated milk, sweetened generously with sugar. The result? A creamy, aromatic tea that keeps you coming back for more.

The Social Side of Karak
Karak is more than a beverage; it’s an excuse to pause, chat, and connect — whether you’re with friends at Jumeirah Corniche or grabbing a cup before work.

Top Spots

• Filli Café — One of Dubai’s most iconic Karak chains
• Karak House — Posh yet authentic

Tip: Pair Karak with a Kellaj or Oman Chips Roll for the ultimate street food combo.

12. Kellaj: The Cheesy, Smoky Emirati Snack

Kellaj is simplicity at its best. Imagine hot, slightly charred bread from the grill, bursting with warm, salty halloumi cheese. That’s Kellaj — a snack that satisfies at any time of day.

Dubai’s Kellaj Specialties
Some street vendors sprinkle powdered sugar or drizzle honey on top for a sweet-salty combo. Others load it with za’atar, chili flakes, or even pistachios for a gourmet twist.

Where You’ll Find It

• Karam Beirut
• Street stalls at Global Village and food festivals

Perfect Pairing: Karak + Kellaj = Dubai street food bliss!

13. Madrouba: The Hidden Gem of Emirati Comfort Food

Madrouba is comfort food in its purest form — a dish that warms both the body and soul. Slow-cooked rice is beaten into a creamy consistency and mixed with chicken, fish, or vegetables along with rich Emirati spices, cardamom, and ghee.

Why People Love It?
Madrouba is often described as the Emirati answer to risotto — hearty, filling, and deeply satisfying. It’s popular at Iftar tables during Ramadan but is also enjoyed at street food festivals and home-style restaurants.

Where to Eat

• Al Dawaar — Authentic flavor with a view
• Akiba Dori — Contemporary twist on tradition

Conclusion: Taste the Heartbeat of Dubai Through Its Street Food

Dubai’s street food isn’t just about grabbing a quick meal — it’s a sensory journey through the city’s rich heritage and diverse cultures. Every dish tells a story — from the smoky Shawarma that fuels late-night cravings, to the sweet aroma of Karak at dawn, to the comforting spoonful of Madrouba during a family gathering.

Why Explore Dubai’s Street Food?

• It’s affordable and accessible — whether you’re at a busy market, beach promenade, or hidden alleyway.
• It reflects Dubai’s cosmopolitan soul — blending Emirati tradition with flavors from India, Lebanon, Yemen, and beyond.
• It’s a chance to experience Dubai like a local — one bite at a time.

Before you set off on your street food adventure, check out our exclusive Dubai food coupons and offers. From Shawarma platters to Karak tea deals — we help you enjoy more for less!