What Are the Must-Try Foods of Abu Dhabi?

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, boasts a vibrant and diverse culinary landscape influenced by both its rich heritage and the various cultures that make up its population. Visitors and locals alike can enjoy an array of delectable dishes that span traditional Emirati cuisine and international flavors, offering a gastronomic adventure for everyone. Whether you’re indulging in street food or dining at a luxurious restaurant, Abu Dhabi’s food scene is a reflection of its cultural diversity and innovation. Here is a detailed guide to what are the must-try food of Abu Dhabi, complete with key points and bulletins to help you navigate the local cuisine.

1. Khuzi (Ghuzi)

What is Khuzi?
Khuzi, also known as Ghuzi, is often considered the national dish of the UAE. This sumptuous dish consists of a whole roasted lamb or mutton, served over a bed of spiced rice. Garnished with nuts, raisins, and often served with roasted vegetables, this dish embodies traditional Emirati flavors. The meat is slow-cooked until it becomes tender and juicy, offering a savory and succulent experience.

Key Points:

Whole roasted lamb or mutton
Served with spiced rice, nuts, and raisins
Slow-cooked for rich flavor

Why It’s a Must-Try:
Khuzi is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of Abu Dhabi’s culinary tradition and hospitality. When asking, “What are the must-try foods of Abu Dhabi?”, Khuzi is an obvious inclusion because of its association with local culture and its status as a festive meal, often served during special occasions and gatherings.

2. Harees

What is Harees?
Harees is a classic dish made from ground wheat and meat (typically chicken or lamb), slow-cooked to a creamy, porridge-like consistency. While the dish may seem simple, it is a favorite during Ramadan and other religious celebrations due to its nourishing qualities and comforting taste.

Key Points:

Made with wheat and meat
Slow-cooked to a porridge-like texture
Popular during Ramadan

Why It’s a Must-Try:
Harees represents the simplicity and heartiness of traditional Emirati meals. If you’re exploring what are the must-try foods of Abu Dhabi, this dish is a must, especially if you’re visiting during the holy month of Ramadan. Its texture and mild flavors make it universally appealing.

3. Machboos

What is Machboos?
Similar to biryani, Machboos is a fragrant rice dish cooked with a blend of spices, meat (lamb, chicken, or fish), and vegetables. The rice absorbs the rich flavors of the spices, creating a dish that is both hearty and aromatic.

Key Points:

Spiced rice with meat and vegetables
Fragrant and rich in flavor
Similar to biryani but with local spice variations

Why It’s a Must-Try:
When considering what are the must-try foods of Abu Dhabi, Machboos is a top contender for its depth of flavor and versatility. This dish offers a glimpse into the region’s love for bold spices and slow-cooked meals.

4. Luqaimat

What is Luqaimat?
Luqaimat are sweet dumplings, deep-fried until golden, and then drizzled with date syrup or honey. Often flavored with cardamom and saffron, these bite-sized delights are crispy on the outside but soft and doughy on the inside.

Key Points:

Sweet fried dumplings
Flavored with saffron and cardamom
Drizzled with syrup or honey

Why It’s a Must-Try:
Luqaimat is the quintessential Emirati dessert, served during Ramadan and other celebrations. If you have a sweet tooth and are wondering what are the must-try foods of Abu Dhabi, Luqaimat is not to be missed.

5. Falafel

What is Falafel?
Falafel, although not native to Abu Dhabi, is a staple across the Middle East. Made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, shaped into patties, and deep-fried, falafel is typically served in pita bread with salad, hummus, and tahini.

Key Points:

Vegetarian-friendly
Ground chickpeas or fava beans
Often served in pita bread with hummus and salad

Why It’s a Must-Try:
Falafel is a widely available and delicious street food option, providing a filling and healthy meal. Its international fame makes it one of the key items in what are the must-try foods of Abu Dhabi, especially for those seeking vegetarian options.

6. Shawarma

What is Shawarma?
Shawarma is thinly sliced meat (usually chicken, beef, or lamb) cooked on a rotating vertical spit. The juicy meat is wrapped in soft pita bread with vegetables, garlic sauce, and tahini.

Key Points:

Rotisserie-cooked meat (chicken, lamb, beef)
Served in pita bread with vegetables and sauces
Available at street vendors and restaurants alike

Why It’s a Must-Try:
No food journey in Abu Dhabi is complete without trying shawarma. It’s one of the most popular street foods, quick, flavorful, and an easy meal for on-the-go. It’s also a key answer to what are the must-try foods of Abu Dhabi?

7. Hummus

What is Hummus?
Hummus is a creamy dip made from blended chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. It’s often paired with pita bread or vegetables as an appetizer.

Key Points:

Made from chickpeas and tahini
Often served as a dip with pita bread
Creamy, healthy, and rich in protein

Why It’s a Must-Try:
Hummus is not only healthy but incredibly versatile, making it one of the most popular and easy-to-find dishes in Abu Dhabi. Whether you’re dining in a restaurant or grabbing a quick snack, hummus will likely be part of your experience when discovering what are the must-try foods of Abu Dhabi.

8. Tabbouleh

What is Tabbouleh?
Tabbouleh is a light and refreshing salad made with parsley, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, onions, and lemon juice. It’s perfect for a light meal or a healthy side dish.

Key Points:

Made with parsley and bulgur wheat
Refreshing and tangy
Served as a side salad or main dish

Why It’s a Must-Try:
Tabbouleh offers a refreshing contrast to the heavier meat-based dishes and is a staple in many Middle Eastern households. If you’re exploring what are the must-try foods of Abu Dhabi, tabbouleh is a must.

9. Fattoush

What is Fattoush?
Fattoush is another Middle Eastern salad made with toasted or fried pieces of pita bread mixed with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and lettuce. It’s usually dressed with lemon juice and olive oil.

Key Points:

Fresh vegetables with toasted pita
Zesty dressing with lemon and olive oil
Light and crunchy

Why It’s a Must-Try:
Fattoush provides a crunchy, zesty addition to any meal. If you’re a fan of fresh, tangy flavors, Fattoush is a must-try and deserves a spot in what are the must-try foods of Abu Dhabi.

10. Kunafa

What is Kunafa?
Kunafa is a beloved Middle Eastern dessert made with shredded phyllo dough, layered with cheese, and soaked in sweet syrup. It’s topped with crushed pistachios for a nutty finish.

Key Points:

Sweet, cheesy dessert
Made with phyllo dough and syrup
Garnished with pistachios

Why It’s a Must-Try:
Kunafa’s unique combination of textures—crispy dough, creamy cheese, and sticky syrup—makes it one of Abu Dhabi’s most cherished desserts. When contemplating what are the must-try foods of Abu Dhabi, Kunafa is a top choice for dessert lovers.

In addition to the detailed descriptions of the must-try foods in Abu Dhabi, there are several other dishes that are equally popular and offer a unique taste of the local and regional cuisine. Here are more must-try foods of Abu Dhabi that you should explore:

11. Balaleet

Balaleet is a traditional Emirati breakfast dish made from sweetened vermicelli noodles, flavored with cardamom and saffron, and topped with a thin egg omelet. The sweet and savory combination makes it a unique dish.

Why It’s a Must-Try:
Balaleet offers an interesting contrast of sweet noodles and savory eggs, providing a delightful breakfast option that reflects the fusion of flavors in Abu Dhabi’s cuisine.

12. Khameer

Khameer is a type of Emirati bread, often served with honey or date syrup. This bread is soft, fluffy, and has a hint of sweetness. It’s a common breakfast or snack, enjoyed with tea or coffee.

Why It’s a Must-Try:
If you’re wondering what are the must-try foods of Abu Dhabi for breakfast, Khameer should be on your list. Its simplicity and versatility make it a popular choice among locals.

13. Jasheed

Jasheed is a traditional fish dish, usually made with small shark or other local fish, cooked with a mix of spices. It is a flavorful, aromatic dish often served with rice.

Why It’s a Must-Try:
Seafood lovers should not miss out on Jasheed, as it offers a glimpse into the rich fishing heritage of the UAE and its coastal cuisine.

14. Samak Mashwi

Samak Mashwi is a grilled fish dish, often marinated with spices like cumin, coriander, and garlic. It’s commonly served with rice or flatbread, offering a light yet flavorful meal.

Why It’s a Must-Try:
Grilled to perfection, Samak Mashwi showcases the freshness of local fish and the use of bold spices, making it an essential dish for seafood enthusiasts exploring what are the must-try foods of Abu Dhabi.

15. Shish Tawook

Shish Tawook is a popular grilled chicken kebab dish, marinated in yogurt and spices. It is often served with garlic sauce, pickles, and pita bread.

Why It’s a Must-Try:
For a more familiar yet authentic flavor, Shish Tawook is an excellent choice, offering a tender and juicy kebab that is popular across the Middle East.

16. Stuffed Camel

Known as one of the most extravagant dishes in Emirati cuisine, stuffed camel is exactly what it sounds like: a whole camel stuffed with other meats like lamb and chicken, along with rice and spices. This dish is typically reserved for special occasions and large celebrations.

Why It’s a Must-Try:
Although it’s not something you’ll find every day, stuffed camel is a once-in-a-lifetime dish that symbolizes the grandeur of traditional Emirati hospitality.

17. Al Harees

Al Harees is a traditional Emirati dish made from wheat and meat, slow-cooked together for hours. It has a similar consistency to porridge and is often served during Ramadan or at weddings.

Why It’s a Must-Try:
This simple yet hearty dish provides a taste of tradition, offering a filling and comforting meal that reflects the slow-cooked methods of Emirati cuisine.

18. Esh Asarya

Esh Asarya, also known as “Bread of the Harem,” is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert made from soft bread soaked in sweet milk and topped with cream and pistachios.

Why It’s a Must-Try:
For those with a sweet tooth, Esh Asarya offers a delicate, creamy dessert experience, perfectly complementing the list of must-try foods of Abu Dhabi.

19. Fereed (Thareed)

Fereed, also known as Thareed, is a traditional stew made with meat (usually lamb or chicken) and vegetables, served with thin layers of bread that soak up the flavorful broth.

Why It’s a Must-Try:
This hearty dish is a staple during Ramadan and is deeply rooted in Emirati culture. Its simplicity, yet rich flavor, makes it a comforting meal to enjoy, especially in the colder months.

20. Gahwa (Arabic Coffee)

Gahwa, or Arabic coffee, is a must-try beverage in Abu Dhabi. It’s made with lightly roasted coffee beans, often infused with cardamom, saffron, and rose water. Traditionally served with dates, it is a symbol of Emirati hospitality.

Why It’s a Must-Try:
No culinary journey through Abu Dhabi is complete without experiencing Gahwa. It’s more than just a drink—it’s an essential part of social gatherings and reflects the deep-rooted culture of the UAE.

21. Aseeda

Aseeda is a traditional dessert made from wheat flour, butter, and honey, often enjoyed during festivals and special occasions. It has a texture similar to pudding, with a rich, sweet taste.

Why It’s a Must-Try:
This simple yet satisfying dessert is a classic in Emirati households and offers a taste of traditional sweet treats that are deeply connected to celebrations and hospitality.

22. Manakish

Manakish is a popular Levantine dish that has found its place in Abu Dhabi’s food scene. It is a flatbread topped with various ingredients like za’atar (thyme), cheese, or minced meat, often enjoyed for breakfast or as a light snack.

Why It’s a Must-Try:
Manakish is a versatile dish that showcases the fusion of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences in Abu Dhabi, making it a popular snack or meal.

23. Mezze

Mezze is not a specific dish but rather an assortment of small dishes served as appetizers, including hummus, baba ghanoush, labneh, and tabbouleh. It offers a variety of flavors and textures, allowing diners to sample multiple dishes at once.

Why It’s a Must-Try:
Mezze provides a comprehensive introduction to Middle Eastern cuisine, offering a delightful range of flavors that are perfect for sharing. It’s ideal for those who want to experience a variety of dishes in one meal.

Conclusion

Abu Dhabi offers a culinary experience like no other, blending traditional Emirati cuisine with international influences to create a rich, diverse food scene. Whether you’re craving savory meat dishes like shawarma and Khuzi or indulging in sweet treats like luqaimat and Kunafa, Abu Dhabi has something for everyone. These dishes offer a flavorful introduction to what are the must-try foods of Abu Dhabi, ensuring your gastronomic journey through the capital is as satisfying as it is memorable.