UAE cuisine is deeply influenced by the country’s past—shaped by ancient trade routes, Bedouin traditions, and coastal living. The result is a rich variety of flavors that blend slow-cooked meats, aromatic rice, grilled dishes, and the generous use of herbs and spices. Every meal tells a story of survival, hospitality, and connection to land and sea.
2. Generous, Comforting, and Flavor-Packed
Emirati food is made to be enjoyed in abundance. Recipes focus on warmth and comfort—whether it’s fragrant rice with saffron and cardamom, grilled meats seasoned to perfection, or sweet, date-filled desserts. The portions are often large, not for indulgence alone, but to reflect the cultural value of sharing and welcoming others.
3. Sharing Is at the Heart of Every Meal
Meals in the UAE are not rushed or solitary—they’re communal. At home or in gatherings, dishes are meant to be placed at the center of the table and shared by everyone. This spirit of togetherness adds a deeper meaning to every bite, making UAE food not just nourishing, but emotionally grounding.
The Best Traditional Emirati Foods in Dubai
1. Rice Dishes
Rice plays a big role in many traditional Emirati meals. At Trove, rice dishes like Chicken Biryani and Lamb with Saffron Rice carry that spirit forward. While biryani is known across the region, the version here is inspired by Gulf flavors, featuring tender meat, fragrant basmati rice, saffron, and aromatic spices like cardamom and cinnamon.
Rice dishes are a staple in the food in UAE because they are hearty and perfect for large gatherings. Trove keeps this tradition alive while adding a touch of fine dining.
2. Grilled Meats
Grilling is one of the oldest cooking techniques in the UAE. The Bedouins used to grill meat over open fires, infusing it with smoke and spice. Trove takes this idea and elevates it with offerings like Grilled Lamb Chops, Beef Skewers, and Chicken Shawarma Tacos.
These dishes highlight the essence of famous Emirati food, simple ingredients made flavorful through technique and seasoning.
3. Emirati Breakfast
A traditional Emirati breakfast might include dishes like Balaleet (sweet noodles with egg), or regag bread with eggs and cheese. Trove’s Truffle Scrambled Eggs and Shakshuka are elegant takes on those local breakfast vibes.
These dishes are perfect if you want a taste of UAE-inspired breakfast with international appeal. They blend comfort with creativity, which is at the heart of Emirati food.
4. Mezze
Small sharing plates, or mezze, are popular throughout the Gulf. At Trove, options like Hummus, Falafel, Stuffed Vine Leaves, and Mutabbal allow diners to experience many flavors in one sitting.
While mezze isn’t exclusive to the UAE, it has become part of the food of UAE thanks to its multicultural society. Sharing mezze is also a big part of social and family gatherings.
5. Fresh Salads with Local Influence
The UAE’s climate may be hot, but fresh salads are always part of the table. Trove serves beautiful, flavorful salads like Burrata Salad, Beetroot Carpaccio, and Mediterranean Greens, often finished with ingredients like pomegranate, tahini, and herbs.
These light and zesty dishes are a modern take on what many locals enjoy during warmer months: cool, crisp, and flavorful salads with a regional twist.
6. Emirati Desserts
Dessert is a big part of Emirati hospitality. Traditional treats include Luqaimat (fried dough balls with date syrup), Kunafa, and sweet dates. Trove honors these favorites with Luqaimat, Kunafa Cheesecake, and other fusion sweets.
Luqaimat is one of the most famous Emirati food desserts. It’s served at festivals, in homes, and at special events. Trove’s take makes it both traditional and trendy.
ALT Text: A platter of Arabic spices and green tea being brewed
Where to Try the Traditional Emirati Food in the UAE?
Emirati cuisine is deeply rooted in tradition: rich stews, spiced rice, grilled meats, and desserts sweetened with dates and saffron.
Trove, located in Dubai Mall is known for its creative menu and artistic ambiance, the restaurant occasionally draws inspiration from local flavors and ingredients, weaving them into a broader international offering. It’s a space where Emirati culinary elements meet global dining sensibilities—subtle, respectful, and modern. The result is not a traditional meal in the usual sense, but a curated experience that nods to local heritage while reflecting Dubai’s global spirit.
Summing it Up
The food of the UAE is more than just a collection of tasty dishes; it’s a celebration of culture, family, and tradition. From spiced rice and grilled meats to sweet desserts and mezze, every bite tells a story.
And now, thanks to restaurants like Trove Restaurant, it’s easier than ever to enjoy these flavors in a modern, stylish way. If you’re looking for a dining experience that blends tradition with creativity, Trove is the perfect place to start.
It brings the warmth of Emirati hospitality to every plate, with a twist. Visit us at Trove Restaurant, Ground Floor, Fashion Avenue, The Dubai Mall, Dubai. For reservations, call +971 50 881 3415 or +971 4 347 7444, or email social@troverestaurant.com. Modern Twist at Trove
