Emirati food reflects the UAE’s heritage—blending flavors from the oasis, desert, sea, and spice routes. Expect dishes slow-cooked with saffron, cardamom, dried limes, and plenty of  lamb, and fish. In Abu Dhabi, food is not just about eating—it’s about community, hospitality, and storytelling. To really experience it, you need to go beyond a menu—you need stories, aromas, textures, and human connection.

Must-Try Emirati Dishes in Abu Dhabi

When exploring, don’t miss these famous Emirati foods:

• Machboos – Spiced rice with lamb, chicken, or fish.
• Al Harees – Slow-cooked wheat and meat porridge.
• Thereed – Emirati bread soaked in a hearty stew.
• Balaleet – Sweet saffron vermicelli with an omelet.
• Luqaimat – Crispy dumplings with date syrup and sesame.

Suggested Emirati Food Itinerary in Abu Dhabi

Day Plan for Food Lovers:

• Breakfast: Balaleet & khameer at Meylas.
• Mid-Morning snack: Rgag with kark tea.
• Lunch: Harees at Al Mrzab with cup of Laban.
• Dinner: Seafood saloona at Al Fanar.

Best Emirati Restaurants in Abu Dhabi

If you want a restaurant experience, these are the top-rated spots to enjoy traditional Emirati food in Abu Dhabi:

• Al Fanar Restaurant & Café (Yas Mall)
  Styled like an old Emirati village, Al Fanar offers machboos, harees, saloona, and sweet luqaimat. A must for travelers who want both atmosphere and authenticity.
• Al Mrzab Traditional Restaurant
  A Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant with cozy majlis-style seating. Famous for machboos, mandi, and hot khanfaroush.
• Meylas (Al Muneera Beach Plaza)
  Popular among locals for breakfast and lunch. Don’t miss balaleet (sweet vermicelli with egg), khameer bread, and thereed.
• Yadoo’s House (Muroor Street)
  A family-style restaurant offering generous portions and a real home-like atmosphere.
• Erth (near Qasr Al Hosn)
  2 Michelin star fine-dining twist on Emirati classics—great for those who want modern Emirati cuisine.

👉 Pro tip: Always ask for the dish of the day—sometimes the best meals are off the menu.

Festivals & Events Showcasing Emirati Food

To experience Emirati cuisine in its cultural context, plan your visit during these Abu Dhabi food events:

• Sheikh Zayed Festival (Al Wathba) – November to February, with Emirati food stalls and cultural showcases.
• MICHELIN Guide Food Festival Abu Dhabi – A mix of global chefs with Emirati elements, held at Emirates Palace.

👉Pro tip: The UAE National Day celebrations (December 2) are the best time to sample Emirati dishes in Abu Dhabi—expect pop-up stalls, Arabic coffee, luqaimat, harees/thereed, and heritage shows across the city.

Emirati Cooking Classes in Abu Dhabi

Want to bring Emirati flavors home? Join a cooking class:

• École Ducasse Abu Dhabi – Offers Emirati cooking experiences with expert chefs.
• Local Hosts – Look out for “Emirati cooking class” or “cook with locals” sessions for authentic home recipes.

Dining With Emirati Friends

The most authentic way to experience Abu Dhabi’s cuisine is to share a meal with locals. Options include:

• Cultural exchange dinners – Join platforms where Emirati families host visitors.
• Heritage villages & cultural centers – Try Arabic coffee, dates, and home-style meals at places like Qasr Al Hosn or the House of Artisans.
• Local connections – If you’re lucky to have Emirati friends, nothing beats a family feast at home.



👉 Pro tip: As a courtesy, when invited to an Emirati home for a meal, bring a small gift like flowers or sweets.

Final Thoughts

From traditional Emirati restaurants to cultural festivals, cooking classes, and shared meals with locals, Abu Dhabi is the best place to discover authentic Emirati cuisine. The flavors are rich, the hospitality is unmatched, and the experience goes far beyond food—it’s a journey into the UAE’s soul.

So next time you’re in the capital, go beyond the usual tourist restaurants and explore the true taste of the Emirates.