Best Arabic restaurants in Dubai

Dubai is home to a vibrant food scene, and its Arabic restaurants are no exception. Among the best Arabic restaurants in Dubai, there are a variety of spots that promise authentic flavors and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re craving the rich spices of Lebanese cuisine or the comforting dishes from Syria, Dubai offers something for everyone. Additionally, these restaurants combine delicious food with beautiful settings, making each meal a memorable event. As a result, dining at any of these establishments will give you a true taste of the Middle East.

ALSAFADI RESTAURANT

Established in 2000, Al Safadi Restaurant has become a cornerstone for authentic Lebanese cuisine in Dubai. With multiple branches across the city, including locations on Sheikh Zayed Road and in Motor City, it offers a convenient dining experience. The menu boasts a rich selection of traditional dishes, from cold and hot mezze to mixed grill items and lamb chops. Patrons often praise the quality and taste of the food, especially the mezze and grilled meats. The restaurant’s ambiance, combined with attentive staff, ensures a pleasant dining atmosphere.

Additionally, Al Safadi offers delivery services through their mobile app and popular food delivery platforms. Their dedication to preserving Lebanese culinary traditions is evident in every dish, making it a favorite for those seeking genuine Middle Eastern flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, leisurely lunch, or late-night meal, Al Safadi caters to all dining preferences. Consequently, their consistent quality and service set them apart.

Thanks to their commitment to authenticity and customer satisfaction, Al Safadi has earned a solid reputation as a top choice for Lebanese dining in the UAE. The welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu make it a beloved spot for both long-time residents and visitors.

AL FANAR

Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe serves as a culinary time capsule, transporting guests to 1960s Dubai. With locations in Dubai Festival City and Al Seef, it recreates a traditional Emirati home’s ambiance. The menu offers a thorough exploration of Emirati cuisine, featuring dishes like balaleet, machboos, and luqaimat. Each dish is prepared using age-old recipes for an authentic taste.

Furthermore, the restaurant’s commitment to preserving Emirati traditions extends beyond food. The ambiance, music, and staff attire all reflect the UAE’s rich heritage. Al Fanar has become a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. Thus, it provides a genuine experience for history enthusiasts and food lovers.

Al Fanar’s nostalgic atmosphere offers an opportunity to step back in time and explore UAE culinary heritage. Consequently, its dedication to preserving authentic flavors makes it a must-visit destination in Dubai.

BAIT MARYAM

Tucked away in Dubai’s Jumeirah Lake Towers, Bait Maryam offers a homely dining experience. The restaurant’s interior, adorned with mismatched sofas and kitchen trinkets, reflects a cozy, lived-in ambiance. Chef-owner Salam Daqqaq greets guests warmly, making them feel like part of the family. The menu showcases Levantine dishes, reminiscent of home-cooked meals across Palestine, Syria, Jordan, and Lebanon. Diners can savor classics like silky hummus, gooey cheese fatayer, and hearty plates of steaming machboos.

The khobez al bait, a bread made with 48-hour fermented dough, is served hot from the oven with tangy confit garlic and creamy labneh. This dish is particularly noteworthy for its light, pillowy crusts. Bait Maryam’s commitment to authenticity is evident in both its decor and culinary offerings. The restaurant has become a favorite among locals and visitors seeking genuine Middle Eastern flavors. Its unpretentious atmosphere and heartfelt hospitality set it apart in Dubai’s dining scene.

For those yearning for a taste of traditional Levantine cuisine, Bait Maryam provides a memorable experience. The combination of Chef Daqqaq’s personal touch and the restaurant’s homestyle dishes makes it a standout destination. In essence, Bait Maryam encapsulates the warmth and richness of Middle Eastern home cooking in the heart of Dubai.

QALAT BAALBAK RESTAURANT

Situated in the bustling Al Barsha district, Qalat Baalbak Restaurant brings the rich flavors of Lebanese cuisine to Dubai’s diverse culinary scene. The establishment prides itself on offering a menu that showcases traditional Lebanese dishes, meticulously prepared to honor time-honored recipes. Guests can savor a variety of mezze, including creamy hummus, smoky baba ghanoush, and crisp falafel, each bursting with authentic flavors. The grill section features succulent kebabs, tender lamb chops, and the ever-popular mixed grill platter, all cooked to perfection over open flames.

Qalat Baalbak’s commitment to quality is evident in their use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a delightful dining experience. The restaurant’s ambiance reflects Lebanese hospitality, with a cozy interior adorned with cultural artifacts and a welcoming staff that makes diners feel at home. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or a light snack, Qalat Baalbak offers a genuine taste of Lebanon in the heart of Dubai.

The restaurant’s attention to detail in both food and ambiance creates an inviting, authentic atmosphere that’s perfect for family meals or casual gatherings. If you’re seeking an unpretentious yet delightful Lebanese dining experience, Qalat Baalbak stands as a solid choice in Dubai’s ever-growing food scene.

SAH EL NOM

Nestled in Dubai’s vibrant Bluewaters Island, Sah El Nom offers an authentic Syrian dining experience. The restaurant’s interior combines modern elegance with traditional Middle Eastern touches, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy classic Syrian dishes like ‘Basha Wa Asakro’—a creamy pasta with meatballs—and ‘Kibbeh Labanieh,’ meat-stuffed bulgur shells in yogurt sauce. The culinary team uses fresh, high-quality ingredients, ensuring each dish reflects Syria’s rich culinary heritage.

Moreover, Sah El Nom provides stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and Ain Dubai. The restaurant features a shisha lounge and an outdoor terrace, allowing guests to unwind. Thus, it offers an immersive Syrian dining experience with exceptional cuisine, setting, and service.

The serene environment and outstanding food make Sah El Nom perfect for relaxing evenings or special celebrations. As a result, its commitment to authenticity and quality ensures a memorable visit.

AL NAFOORAH

Nestled within the opulent Jumeirah Al Qasr hotel, Al Nafoorah offers an exquisite Lebanese dining experience. The restaurant’s interior exudes elegance, featuring traditional Middle Eastern décor that transports guests to Lebanon. The menu celebrates Lebanese gastronomy with a variety of hot and cold mezze, grilled meats, and delectable mains. Diners can enjoy tender lamb kebabs, flavorful shawarma, and freshly baked bread with an array of dips.

Furthermore, the ambiance is enhanced by live music, creating a vibrant yet sophisticated atmosphere. Al Nafoorah’s commitment to authenticity is evident in its cuisine and warm hospitality. This ensures that every guest feels welcomed and valued. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a meal, Al Nafoorah offers an unparalleled experience in Dubai.

The restaurant’s luxurious setting, exceptional food, and live entertainment make it perfect for intimate dinners or grand celebrations. Consequently, it stands out as a true gem in Dubai’s fine dining scene.

ORFALI BROS BISTRO

In Dubai’s Wasl 51, Orfali Bros Bistro stands out. Founded by Syrian chefs Mohammad, Wassim, and Omar Orfali, it offers a unique dining experience. The bistro’s interior is modern yet cozy, featuring an open kitchen that invites guests into the culinary process. The menu is a fusion of Middle Eastern flavors with global influences, showcasing the brothers’ innovative approach. Dishes like the ‘Shish Barak à la Gyoza’ blend traditional Levantine dumplings with Japanese techniques, reflecting their creative flair. Another standout is the ‘Umami Oyster Blade,’ a succulent beef dish enriched with umami flavors, highlighting their expertise in flavor layering.

Desserts are not to be overlooked; the ‘Baklava Cheesecake’ offers a delightful twist on classic sweets, merging textures and tastes harmoniously. The bistro’s ambiance is enhanced by curated music playlists, creating a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere. Service is attentive, with staff well-versed in the menu’s intricacies, ready to guide diners through their culinary journey.

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours, due to its growing popularity among locals and tourists alike. Orfali Bros Bistro not only serves food but also tells a story of passion, heritage, and innovation, making it a must-visit destination in Dubai’s dynamic dining scene.