Must-Try Foods In Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Abu Dhabi, UAE

Abu Dhabi's food history is deeply rooted in the Emirati culture that is influenced by Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines. Owing to the arid environment, traditional dishes often revolve around ingredients that could survive the harsh desert conditions, such as dates, spices, and grains. The Bedouin tribes of the past largely consumed camel milk and meat, and there was a significant emphasis on hospitality and sharing meals, which is still noticeable in today's food culture.

With the discovery of oil and the development of the UAE as a global hub, the food scene in Abu Dhabi evolved remarkably. An influx of expatriates and economic growth paved the way for a diverse culinary landscape, combining traditional Emirati flavors with international dishes.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Abu Dhabi for Tourists

• Harees (Non-Veg): A comforting porridge-like dish made with wheat, meat, and a dash of salt.
• Falafel (Veg): Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, seasoned with herbs and spices.
• Tabbouleh (Veg): A fresh Levantine salad typically made with parsley, tomatoes, mint, bulgur, and dressed with olive oil and lemon juice.
• Fattoush (Veg): A mixed greens salad with pieces of toasted pita bread combined with vegetables and a tangy dressing.
• Shawarma (Non-Veg): Thinly sliced meat, typically chicken or lamb, wrapped in a pita bread with garlic sauce, vegetables, and sometimes fries.
• Moutabal (Veg): A smoked eggplant dip blended with tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, often garnished with pomegranate seeds.
• Shish Tawook (Non-Veg): Marinated chicken skewers that are grilled and served with garlic paste.
• Umm Ali (Veg): A warm bread pudding made with pastry, milk, and nuts, often enjoyed during Eid celebrations.
• Luqaimat (Veg): Sweet dumplings that are crispy on the outside and soft inside, typically drizzled with date syrup and sesame seeds.
• Knafeh (Veg): A sweet cheese pastry soaked in sweet, sugar-based syrup, often layered with dough or vermicelli noodles.

Top Famous Restaurants in Abu Dhabi, UAE

1. Hakkasan Abu Dhabi
   Emirates Palace, Corniche Rd, West Corniche, Abu Dhabi

   Famous for its Modern Chinese Cuisine (Non-Veg/Veg options available).

2. Li Beirut
   Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Corniche Rd, Abu Dhabi

   Known for Authentic Lebanese dishes (Non-Veg/Veg options available).

3. Lebanese Mill
   1st St - Zone 1, Al Zahiyah, Abu Dhabi

   Famous for traditional Lebanese Shawarma (Non-Veg).

4. Indigo
   Beach Rotana, 10th Street, Al Zahiyah, Abu Dhabi

   Raved about for its Modern Indian Cuisine (Non-Veg/Veg options available).

5. Zahrat Lebnan
   Multiple locations across Abu Dhabi

   Iconic for its Tabbouleh and Falafel (Veg).

6. Villa Toscana
   The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, Nation Tower, Corniche, Abu Dhabi

   This restaurant offers sublime Italian dishes (Non-Veg/Veg options available).

7. Torero
   Bainuna St, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi

   Famous for Spanish Tapas (Non-Veg/Veg options available).

8. COYA
   The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi

   Well-known for its Peruvian Cuisine (Non-Veg/Veg options available).

9. Mezlai Emirati Restaurant
   Emirates Palace, West Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi

   Offers a sophisticated dining experience with traditional Emirati Cuisine (Non-Veg/Veg options available).

10. Al Maqam
    Arabian Nights Village, Al Khatim, Abu Dhabi

    Specializes in Arabic Cuisine with a focus on the famous Harees dish (Non-Veg).