10 Must-Try Dishes in Dubai That Foodies Will Travel For

The best part? Getting there doesn’t have to be expensive. With cheap flights to Dubai now easier to find than ever, planning your food-filled adventure is just a few clicks away.

Here are 10 mouth-watering dishes that make flights to Dubai worth every penny.

Al Harees – Traditional Emirati Comfort Food

A slow-cooked mix of meat and wheat, Al Harees is rich, smooth, and full of flavor. It’s especially popular during Ramadan and other special occasions.

Where to try: Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe

Travel Tip: Booking flight deals to Dubai in advance gives you more time to explore cultural food like Al Harees during traditional festivals.

 Shawarma – Dubai’s Iconic Street Food

Shawarma is everywhere in Dubai — and for good reason. This delicious wrap, made with thinly sliced grilled meat, garlic sauce, and pickled veggies, is a favorite among locals and tourists.

Must-visit spot: Al Mallah or Eat & Drink Restaurant

Fun fact: Many travelers grab a shawarma right after landing, thanks to the growing number of cheap flights to Dubai arriving daily.

Mandi – Flavored Rice With a Smoky Twist

Originally from Yemen, Mandi is now one of Dubai’s most-loved dishes. Cooked in a traditional underground oven, the rice and meat take on a delicious smoky flavor.

Where to go: Maraheb or Bait Al Mandi

Mandi is a common dish offered on Dubai food tours, which you can easily add to your itinerary if you score good flight deals to Dubai.

Finding Cheap Flights to Dubai

Before we continue, here’s a quick tip: Use tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Hopper to find the best flight deals to Dubai. Flying midweek or booking a few months early can often get you the cheapest flights to Dubai available.

Machboos – Spiced Rice Done Right

Also called Kabsa, Machboos is a spicy rice dish cooked with meat, vegetables, and dried lemon. It’s a flavorful explosion you don’t want to miss.

Try it at: Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant

If you love rice dishes, make this a top priority on your trip. Look for early flights to Dubai and arrive in time for a traditional lunch.

 Luqaimat – Sweet Dumplings with Date Syrup

Luqaimat are golden, crispy dough balls covered in date syrup and sesame seeds. They’re crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside — a perfect dessert!

Best enjoyed at: Local food markets or during the Dubai Food Festival

Many travelers plan their trip around food festivals. Luckily, it’s easy to find cheap flights to Dubai during off-peak seasons when these events happen.

Grilled Hammour – A Coastal Favorite

Hammour is a local fish that’s often grilled with herbs and served with rice or salad. It’s light, flavorful, and a perfect dish for seafood lovers.

Order it at: Bu Qtair Fish Restaurant

Seafood fans often take flights to Dubai just to try freshly caught grilled Hammour straight from the Arabian Gulf.

Stuffed Camel – Dubai’s Most Unique Dish

This one’s for the adventurous eater. Stuffed camel is prepared with rice, spices, and sometimes even a roasted lamb inside. It’s rare and usually served at weddings or festivals.

Where to find: Bedouin-style desert camps or private Emirati events Want to try something truly rare? Combine a flight deal to Dubai with a desert safari that includes traditional meals.

Koshari – A Budget-Friendly Favorite

Koshari mixes rice, pasta, lentils, chickpeas, and spicy tomato sauce. Though Egyptian in origin, it’s a favorite among locals in Dubai, especially for a quick, satisfying meal.

Eat it at: Zaroob or Koshari Point

Many foodies who take cheap flights to Dubai love discovering budget meals like Koshari that don’t sacrifice flavor.

Falafel – Crispy, Herby, and Delicious

Falafel in Dubai is something special. These crispy chickpea balls are perfect as a snack or full meal when served with hummus and fresh bread.

Top picks: Operation Falafel or Arabian Tea House

Don’t underestimate the street food! Booking early flights to Dubai gives you time to explore the smaller, local joints.

Knafeh – Sweet Cheese Pastry

Knafeh is made with sweet cheese and shredded pastry soaked in syrup. It’s warm, gooey, and delicious — a must-try dessert.

Where to try: Firas Sweets or Al Samadi Sweets

Many visitors finish their Dubai trip with a sweet treat like Knafeh before heading back. Look for round-trip flight deals to Dubai to make the most of your travel.

 Final Travel Tips for Foodies

If these dishes are calling your name, it’s time to book your ticket! With the rise in tourism, flights to Dubai have become more frequent and affordable. Here are a few last-minute tips:

• Set fare alerts on sites like Google Flights.

• Travel off-peak (May to September) for the lowest airfare.

• Bundle with hotels for all-inclusive flight deals to Dubai.

✈️ Start Your Food Journey with a Cheap Flight to Dubai

Dubai’s food scene is one of the best in the world — and now, getting there is easier than ever. Thanks to a growing number of cheap flights to Dubai, you don’t need to spend a fortune to experience these incredible flavors.

So grab your fork, book that flight, and get ready to eat your way through the city of gold!