How to get a taste of the Middle East

Bursting with flavours and infused with authentic spices, the Emirati cuisine in Abu Dhabi is something you should try during your stay in the UAE’s capital city. This modern metropolis, nestled on an island in the Persian Gulf, has many diverse dishes to sustain all types of palates. You get everything from filling main courses to appetising snacks, juicy desserts and aromatic beverages. Here is a guide to awaken the foodie in you.  

Abu Dhabi cuisine at a glance 

The Emirati cuisine in Abu Dhabi is home to many flavourful dishes that are loved by locals and tourists. These embody Persian, Middle Eastern and Indian influences due to its rich roots as a trading hub.  These dishes are fast becoming global favourites. They are made by using spices like turmeric, saffron, cardamom, and cinnamon. Dried fruits, nuts and lime are also frequently used to make these delicacies.  

Rice is a staple in this region and is a part of almost every meal. Meat varieties like chicken, mutton and beef, as well as seafood, are frequently used to whip up dishes. Dates, too, are consumed along with meals as they are available in abundance. Meals that are not made up of rice consist of rotis and breads like Regag and Chebab.

Main dishes 

Machboos is the signature dish in this region and features spiced rice with meat varieties such as chicken or lamb. Dried lime, too, is used to infuse flavours into this dish along with spices. This quintessential Emirati dish makes a hearty meal. It is also referred to as ‘kabsa’ by the locals. So if you are interested in savouring the dishes like a local, being familiar with these terms will make your foodie adventure easier. 

Other main wholesome dishes you can add to your list to sample include Khuzi or Ghuzi (rice served with slow-cooked lamb or mutton), Harees (meat and wheat porridge), Thareed (meat and vegetable stew accompanied by flatbread) and Salona (meat or fish stew served with rice). 

If you ever feel nostalgic and wish for something to nibble on that is close to home, there are also many places in Abu Dhabi which feature international goodies. For instance, Al Shams Restaurant & Bar at Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort offers its guests a chance to experience authentic cuisine with an international touch. Therefore, you have a choice between well-loved global meals like burgers and salads and mezze, a selection of small, shareable portions from the Arabic or Persian cuisine, combined to make a full meal along with curries.           

Desserts and sweet treats 

Traditional Emirati sweets are mouthwatering. One of the most popular sweetmeats there is luqaimat. It is a local goodie which is made of fried dumplings submerged in date or rose-water infused sugar syrup. Known as a sweet which simply melts in the mouth, luqaimat is featured prominently in the Ramadan menu. Since this is a local favourite, it is sure to be available at any resort in Abu Dhabi or even at any local dine-in. It is a must-try there and makes a delicious treat to try with a cup of gahwa (Arabic coffee). 

A few other desserts and sweets you can choose to sink your teeth into are Tamr Mahshi (stuffed dates), Baklava (rich and flaky phyllo dough pastry), Ma'amoul (cookie resembling shortbread) and Khabeesa (semolina, saffron, and cardamom sweet).

Street food scene

Recognised as a multicultural mix featuring well-loved items like falafel and shawarma, the Abu Dhabi street food scene is thriving with rich flavours, aromas and local experiences. Visit a stall which can be found along the streets or close to local markets, and you will find that you have a wide range of options to choose from. Some distinct dishes you might come across are Afghan stuffed breads and Syrian pastries. 

Visiting such places allows you to try a wide range of local dishes at affordable prices at one destination.  Eating at such places also gives you an authentic cultural experience, such as eating like a local and the chance to interact with the vendors.