Must-Try Foods In Shimal (Ras Al Khaimah) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Shimal, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates

The food history of Shimal in Ras Al Khaimah is deeply rooted in the Arab culture, inspired by the flavors of the Middle East. Historically, the region’s cuisine reflected the harsh desert environment, with an emphasis on dishes that provided sustenance and could be preserved in the heat. Dates, which are plentiful in the area, have long been a staple, often accompanied by dairy products like yogurt and cheese made from goat's or camel's milk. Seafood also features prominently due to the proximity to the Arabian Gulf, providing a rich source of nutrition for the coastal communities.

Spices and herbs, traded extensively through the port towns, have profoundly influenced the traditional cooking in Shimal. Saffron, cardamom, cinnamon, and turmeric are common, as are dishes cooked with rice such as biryanis and pilafs. The cuisine now reflects a blend of influences, from Indian to Persian, and has evolved to include a variety of dishes celebrating both the land and sea.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Shimal, Ras Al Khaimah

1. Falafel - (Veg) Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices.
2. Hummus - (Veg) Creamy dip made of chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic.
3. Tabbouleh - (Veg) A refreshing salad with bulgur, finely chopped parsley, mint, tomato, and onion.
4. Fatteh - (Veg) Chickpeas served with toasted bread, garlic, and yogurt.
5. Grilled Halloumi - (Veg) Firm cheese that can be grilled without melting, often served with vegetables.
6. Moutabal - (Veg) Smoky eggplant dip blended with tahini and garlic.
7. Shish Tawook - (Non-Veg) Chicken skewers marinated in special spices and grilled to perfection.
8. Grilled Hammour - (Non-Veg) A local fish delicacy, usually served grilled with spices.
9. Umm Ali - (Veg) A warm, scrumptious dessert similar to bread pudding.
10. Lugaimat - (Veg) Sweet dough balls deep-fried and drizzled with date syrup or honey.

Top Famous Restaurants in Shimal, Ras Al Khaimah

Al Moohit Seafood Restaurant

- Address: Corniche Rd - Al Seer, Ras al Khaimah

- Famous Food: Grilled Hammour (Non-Veg)

Basilico Mediterranean Restaurant

- Address: Cove Rotana Resort, Ras Al Khaimah

- Famous Food: Grilled Halloumi (Veg)

Thunder Road Pizza & Grill

- Address: Ras al Khaimah near Iceland Water Park

- Famous Food: Vegetarian Pizza (Veg)

Al Nakheel Lebanese Restaurant

- Address: Bin Daher St, Ras Al Khaimah

- Famous Food: Tabbouleh and Hummus (Veg)

Lebanese House Restaurant

- Address: Al Muntasir Rd, Ras Al Khaimah

- Famous Food: Fatteh (Veg)