Local Dessert
Luqaimat
Sweet dumplings made from dough, fried until golden, and drizzled with date syrup or honey. These bite-sized treats are popular during Ramadan and are often flavoured with saffron and cardamom. They are a beloved dessert and snack throughout the UAE.
Best Place To Try It:
Luqaimat are commonly found at Emirati sweet shops and cafes. Some of the best places to enjoy them include Arabian Tea House, Al Fanar Restaurant, and Local Bites Café.
Knafeh
Famous Middle Eastern dessert made with thin noodle-like pastry or semolina dough soaked in sweet syrup, layered with soft cheese, and often topped with pistachios. Its origins are debated, but it is a popular treat across the Arab world, including Dubai, particularly during festive occasions.
Best Place To Try It:
To indulge in Knafeh, visit original confectionary stores, such as Al Samadi Sweets,Feras Aldiyafa Sweets, and Qwaider Al Nabulsi.
Umm Ali
Traditional Emirati dessert with roots in Egypt, resembling a bread pudding. It is made with layers of puff pastry soaked in sweetened milk and cream, and is often sprinkled with nuts and raisins. The dish is warm, comforting, and a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Best Place To Try It:
Umm Ali is available at many Middle Eastern restaurants in Dubai. Top places to try it include Al Hadheerah Desert Restaurant, Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe, and Ayam Elezz.
Baklava
Rich, sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey. Though it originated in the Ottoman Empire, it is a popular dessert across the Middle East, including Dubai. Baklava is often flavoured with rose water or orange blossom and is a staple at celebrations and festive occasions.
Best Place To Try It:
Baklava can be found at many Middle Eastern and Turkish bakeries in Dubai. Some of the best places to enjoy it are Al Samadi Sweets, Gulha Sweets, and Zaroob.
Chebab
Emirati-style pancake, often served for breakfast. It is slightly thicker than a crepe and traditionally flavoured with saffron and cardamom, giving it a distinctive taste. Chebab is usually enjoyed with date syrup, honey, or cheese, making it a sweet yet filling start to the day.
Best Place To Try It:
You can find Chebab at traditional Emirati cafes and restaurants. Top places to try include Arabian Tea House, Seven Sands, and Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe.
Camel Milk Chocolate
A unique delicacy that combines the creamy texture of milk chocolate with the subtle, slightly salty flavour of camel milk. Camel milk is a staple in the UAE, valued for its nutritional benefits, and its chocolate version has become a popular souvenir for visitors. It is smooth, rich, and often infused with flavours like dates or nuts.
Best Place To Try It:
You can purchase camel milk chocolate at specialty shops like Al Nassma, which is the first brand to produce it commercially. Other places include Camel Cookies in The Dubai Mall.
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