Local Beverages
Arabic Coffee
Arabic coffee, also known as gahwa, is a traditional coffee brewed from lightly roasted beans and flavoured with cardamom. Served in small, handle-less cups, it is often accompanied by dates. Arabic coffee is deeply embedded in Emirati culture, symbolising hospitality and social gatherings.
Best Place To Try It:
You can enjoy Arabic coffee at cultural venues and cafes around Dubai. Some of the best places include the Arabian Tea House, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood cafes, and the Coffee Museum in Al Bastakiya.
Karak Chai
A strong, spiced tea made with black tea, condensed milk, and a blend of aromatic spices such as cardamom. This tea, brought to the UAE by Indian and Pakistani expatriates, has become a staple beverage in Dubai, loved for its bold flavour and comforting warmth. It is typically served sweet, often from roadside tea stalls.
Best Place To Try It:
Karak chai is widely available, but for an authentic experience, visit the popular Karak House, Project Chaiwala, Filli Cafe, or the Karak Tea stalls in Satwa.
Falooda
A layered dessert drink popular in South Asian cuisine, made with rose syrup, vermicelli, sweet basil seeds, and milk, often topped with ice cream. It's a refreshing, indulgent treat especially enjoyed during the hot summer months. The dessert has been embraced by Dubai's diverse food scene, offering a fusion of flavours and textures.
Best Place To Try It:
Falooda can be found in ice cream parlours across Dubai. Top spots to enjoy it include Kulfilicious, Filli Cafe, and Parsi Dairy.
Jallab
A popular Middle Eastern drink made from a blend of grape molasses, rose water, and sugar, often served over ice and topped with pine nuts and raisins. It is a refreshing, sweet beverage commonly enjoyed during the hot summer months in Dubai, offering a cooling respite from the heat.
Best Place To Try It:
Jallab is available at many cafes and restaurants serving Middle Eastern cuisine. Recommended places include Al Mallah, Zaroob, and Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe.
Laban
A traditional Middle Eastern buttermilk drink, made from fermented milk. It is slightly tangy and served cold, making it a refreshing and hydrating option in Dubai’s hot climate. Laban is often enjoyed alongside meals or as a light snack, and is prized for its digestive benefits.
Best Place To Try It:
Laban is widely available in supermarkets and local eateries. For a traditional experience, try it at Abshar Restaurant and Klayya Bakery & Sweets.
Camel Milk
A staple in Emirati cuisine, camel milk is known for its slightly salty taste and numerous health benefits, including high levels of vitamin C and iron. It has been consumed by Bedouins for centuries and is now making its way into modern culinary uses, including in coffee, smoothies, and desserts.
Best Place To Try It:
Camel milk is available at many cafes and specialty shops. Al Nassma offers camel milk chocolates, while Emirates Industry for Camel Milk & Products (Camelicious) supplies fresh camel milk to many outlets across Dubai.
Similar Options you’d love
