Dubai's dining scene is diverse, but Arabic cuisine holds a special place in the city’s heart. Rooted in centuries-old traditions, Arabic food offers a celebration of culture, hospitality and togetherness. From the scent of freshly baked bread emerging from a wood-fired oven to the rich aroma of spiced lamb slow-cooked to perfection, every dish tells a story of heritage passed down through generations.
Dining at one of Dubai’s top Arabic restaurants means immersing yourself in a sensory journey, taking a trip through vibrant mezze spreads, tender grilled meats, fragrant rice dishes and exotic desserts. Are you ready to go on a culinary adventure into the soul of Arabic world in Dubai? Make sure you check out some of these top Arabic restaurants in the city where tradition meets innovation and flavours take you places that start to feel like home.
Sufret Maryam, Jumeirah
Located at Wasl 51, Sufret Maryam is Michelin-awarded Chef Salam Dakkak’s heartfelt tribute to her mother. Warm Palestinian hospitality fills the space, adorned with art and the aroma of freshly baked breads, including a standout 48-hour fermented sourdough. The menu elevates nostalgic Palestinian and Jordanian dishes, with highlights like labneh crème brûlée topped with za’atar ice cream. Recognised with a Michelin Bib Gourmand, it’s a place where heritage meets refined flavour. Open daily from 9am to midnight.
@sufretmaryam
Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant, Bur Dubai
Set in the charming Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant offers an authentic taste of Emirati tradition. Lantern-lit courtyards, palm accents, and the aroma of fresh gahwa create a warm, nostalgic atmosphere. The menu features Emirati favourites like jesheed, bedouin lamb tikka, and other hearty meats and fresh seafood. Breakfast is a standout, perfect before or after exploring Old Dubai. With farm-fresh ingredients and generous portions, it’s a delicious way to step back in time. Open daily from 9am to midnight.
www.alkhayma.com
Ninive, Sheikh Zayed Road
Nestled at the foot of Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Ninive is an 'urban majlis' with twinkling lights, lush greenery, and Middle Eastern charm. Its menu spans the Middle East and North Africa, with mezze, grills, and fragrant tagines to share. Standouts include pumpkin and spinach kibbeh, almond kunafa, and grilled octopus skewers. Perfect for a romantic date in an Arabic restaurant. Open Sundays to Thursdays from 6pm to 2am, and until 3am on Fridays and Saturdays.
www.ninive.ae
Al-Fanar, Al Seef
Perched along Dubai Creek in Al Seef, Al-Fanar blends rustic charm with a celebration of authentic Emirati cuisine. From the terrace, guests can watch fishermen’s floating stalls while enjoying signature Arabic dishes like jesheed, featuring shredded, seasoned baby shark served with fragrant rice, or the indulgent Aseeda al Tamor, a spiced date pudding with syrup. The interior channels old Dubai with vintage décor, while the waterfront setting underlines the freshness of its seafood. Warm hospitality and hearty portions make it a standout spot for a taste of tradition. Open daily from noon to 11pm.
www.alfanarrestaurant.com
Siraj, Downtown Dubai
Set in Souk Al Bahar at Downtown Dubai, Siraj offers a refined blend of Emirati and Levantine flavours with a modern twist. Inside, elegant oriental-inspired décor pays homage to Arabic heritage, while the terrace provides prime views of Burj Khalifa. Signature dishes like lobster kebbe and shrimp kunafa showcase the creative edge to its otherwise traditional menu. Perfect for a romantic evening or a stylish night out, Siraj pairs culture with culinary finesse. Open noon to 1am on Mondays through Thursdays, and until 2am on Fridays to Sundays.
@sirajrestaurant
Gerbou, Nad Al Sheba
Set in a heritage building in Nad Al Sheba, Gerbou radiates Emirati hospitality from its camel leather chairs to its warmly welcoming team. The menu offers classic dishes like chicken machboos, mezze, salads, and sandwiches, perfect for sharing. For a unique treat, try the fwala tray, a traditional Emirati take on high tea. With its blend of authentic flavours, cultural charm, and relaxed setting, Gerbou is a true taste of the UAE’s culinary soul. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner served at select hours daily.
www.gerbou.com
Ibn Albahr, Palm Jumeirah
Located in Club Vista Mare, Palm Jumeirah, Ibn Albahr brings authentic Lebanese seafood to the shore with a charming nautical theme featuring ropes, anchors, and a boat. The terrace offers stunning beach views, and for the ultimate experience, request a table right on the sand. Fresh fish is selected at the counter and prepared simply yet expertly, allowing natural flavours to shine through with a hint of aromatic herbs and spices. It’s a laid-back spot for fresh, flavourful Arabic-style seafood by the water. Open daily from 8.30am to 2am.
www.ibnalbahr.me
Al Mandaloun, DIFC
Perched on Level 3 of DIFC, Al Mandaloun is a home-grown Lebanese restaurant that has been serving Dubai since 2004. Celebrating the warmth of Arabian hospitality, it captures the essence of Lebanon with its authentic flavours and generous spirit. The menu is a feast of classics, from endless hot and cold mezze to freshly baked breads, raw meat delicacies, and signature grills. Shawarma is a house favourite, seasoned with a distinctive spice blend, while traditional desserts, Arabic coffee, and fragrant herbal teas round out the experience. Guests can dine indoors amid stylish yet welcoming interiors, or head to the terrace lounge overlooking DIFC’s waterfalls and gardens for a serene escape. Open daily from 8am to midnight.
www.al-mandaloun.com
Three By Eva Halasa, Jumeirah
In a charming villa along Al Wasl Road, Jordanian television host and restaurateur Eva Halasa, together with her daughters Emilie and Lilian, brings a fresh take on Arabic cuisine. The menu features playful creations such as feta brûlée with date and walnut toast, and bone marrow served with sourdough and sauerkraut. Jordanian classics shine too, with the mansaf taking centre stage. Other favourites include the bold chilli charcoal labneh, the grilled shrimp platter, and the aromatic fattet chicken. Stylish yet welcoming, Three by Eva Halasa is a destination for both tradition lovers and culinary explorers. Open daily from noon to midnight and until 1am on Fridays.
www.threebyeva.com
Alaya, DIFC
In the heart of Gate Village 4, DIFC, acclaimed Chef Izu Ani brings his signature flair to Alaya, a Middle Eastern dining experience with a refined edge. Set in a former art gallery, the sleek interiors frame an open kitchen where a giant rotisserie takes centre stage. The menu blends classic flavours with regional accents featuring melt-in-the-mouth lamb shank, indulgent seafood manti and a kunafa dessert worth saving room for. Open daily from 12.30pm to 11.30pm on weekdays and until 12.30am on weekends.
www.alayarestaurants.com
AlBait AlQadeem Restaurant, Deira
Nestled in Al Ras, Deira, AlBait AlQadeem, meaning ‘The Old House’, celebrates Emirati culinary heritage in a setting rich with history. Surrounded by traditional architecture and open courtyards, it’s a charming spot to savour time-honoured recipes. The menu champions local favourites such as Emirati chicken stew and mixed grill, but it’s the shawarma that steals the show. Pair it with a steaming cup of tea for the perfect pre or post-market treat in this cultural corner of the city. Open daily from 8am to 10pm.
@albaitalqadeem_restaurant_uae