Dubai is often seen as a city of luxury, skyscrapers, and five-star dining, but its street food culture is equally vibrant and offers a delicious, authentic experience of the city’s multicultural spirit. Whether you’re wandering through Deira’s bustling souks or strolling down Jumeirah Beach, you’ll find flavors from the Middle East, South Asia, and beyond. Here’s a guide to the top 5 street foods to try in Dubai that are both beloved by locals and celebrated by tourists.
1. Shawarma in Meena Bazaar – Dubai’s Most Iconic Street Food
When it comes to Dubai’s best street food, shawarma takes the top spot. This Middle Eastern wrap, typically made with marinated chicken or beef, is grilled on a vertical spit and sliced thin into pita bread with garlic sauce, pickles, and fries.
Best Place to Try: Al Mallah in Satwa or street-side stalls in Meena Bazaar, Bur Dubai.
Pro Tip: Opt for a mixed meat shawarma or the spicy version for a bold flavor twist. Many vendors offer it for just AED 6–8, making it both affordable and filling.
2. Manakish from Karama – The Lebanese Pizza Loved by Dubai Locals
Manakish is often called the “Lebanese pizza,” and it’s a favorite morning or evening snack in Dubai. This flatbread is topped with ingredients like za’atar (thyme and sesame mix), cheese, minced lamb, or a combination of all three, then baked in a wood-fired oven.
Where to Try: Al Reef Lebanese Bakery in Karama serves some of the city’s best authentic manakish straight from the oven.
Street Food Tip: Grab a cheese-and-za’atar manakish with a cup of sweet karak chai for the ultimate Dubai-style snack combo.
3. Chaat at Al Fahidi Street – Best Indian Street Food in Dubai
Dubai’s large Indian and Pakistani population has brought their street food culture to life in areas like Al Fahidi and Karama. Chaat, a spicy and tangy mix of chickpeas, potatoes, yogurt, chutneys, and crispy sev, is a must-try for fans of bold, layered flavors.
Top Spot: Rangoli Restaurant and Chatori Gali in Bur Dubai are known for authentic Mumbai-style chaats like pani puri, bhel puri, and dahi puri.
Insider Tip: Go in the evening when the stalls are busiest for the freshest chaat, made on the spot.
4. Luqaimat at Global Village – Traditional Emirati Dessert Street Food
No list of Dubai’s top street foods is complete without mentioning luqaimat – golden, deep-fried dumplings drizzled with date syrup and sesame seeds. These are a Ramadan favorite but are served year-round at local markets and food festivals.
Best Time & Place: Visit Global Village during the winter season or stop by the Al Fanar Restaurant kiosk for freshly made luqaimat.
Cultural Note: Luqaimat is best eaten hot and fresh. It perfectly represents Emirati hospitality and tradition, often served to guests with Arabic coffee.
5. Samboosa and Chai in Satwa – The South Asian Combo Dubai Swears By
In the working-class neighborhoods of Satwa and Deira, you’ll find numerous tea stalls selling samboosa (the local term for samosas) alongside steaming cups of karak chai. The samboosa is often stuffed with spicy vegetables, minced meat, or lentils and fried until crispy.
Where to Go: Try Filli Café, Tea Junction, or roadside tea stalls in Satwa and Oud Metha.
Why It’s a Must-Try: This combo is deeply rooted in Dubai’s daily life, particularly among workers and students. It’s cheap, comforting, and bursting with flavor.
From shawarma stands in Meena Bazaar to luqaimat carts at Global Village, Dubai’s street food offers a snapshot of its diverse population and rich culinary influences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-term resident, these five street foods represent the best of what the city has to offer on the go—affordable, delicious, and unforgettable.