Top 5 must-try restaurants for authentic Emirati cuisine this Eid Al Etihad in Dubai

With Eid Al Etihad just around the corner, it’s the perfect moment to dive into the vibrant flavours of authentic Emirati cuisine! Get ready to gather your friends and family during the long holidays for an unforgettable culinary adventure. Picture savouring traditional dishes at some of the UAE’s hidden gems, where every bite is a celebration of culture and taste. Here are five incredible restaurants that will delight your palate and create unforgettable dining experiences!

1. Al Fanar: This is a popular choice for those seeking a truly immersive Emirati dining experience, featuring a diverse menu of seafood dishes such as grilled fish, shrimp, and lobster, alongside traditional land-based Emirati cuisine. The restaurant's interior, inspired by the design of a traditional dhow, creates a unique and atmospheric setting, making it perfect for a memorable meal that reflects the UAE's rich maritime heritage.

Al Fanar Opening Times: Daily, 12pm to 10pm and Saturday to Sunday 8.30am to 10pm Location: Multiple locations across Dubai, including Al Seef Heritage District

2. Al Jalboot: Nestled in the Jumeirah Beach Road, this restaurant provides a charming dining experience centered around seafood. Its menu boasts a range of fresh dishes, including grilled fish, shrimp, and lobster, all prepared with traditional Emirati cooking methods. The restaurant's interior, inspired by the design of traditional dhows, offers a unique and immersive atmosphere that evokes the golden age of pearl diving, making it a perfect spot for those seeking to indulge in seafood-focused Emirati cuisine.

Al Jalboot Opening times: Daily, 12pm to 11pm Location: Jumeirah Beach Road.

3. Siraj: This restaurant offers a sophisticated and refined dining experience that highlights contemporary Emirati cuisine, featuring innovative dishes like camel tenderloin, saffron lobster, and traditional Emirati desserts. The restaurant's elegant interior, characterised by its luxurious and inviting atmosphere, is perfect for special occasions, combining modern design with a focus on fine dining.

Siraj Opening Times: Monday to Friday, 12pm until midnight, Saturday and Sunday, 12pm to 1am Location: Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai

Local House: Located in the heart of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Local House provides a genuinely authentic Emirati dining experience, showcasing a variety of traditional dishes such as camel burgers, saloona (a classic Arabic meat stew), and Emirati breakfasts. The restaurant's interior beautifully blends traditional Emirati architecture with modern elements, creating a unique and inviting ambience that complements its speciality in authentic cuisine focused on local ingredients.

Local House Opening Times: Daily, 8am to 11pm Location: Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

5. Logma: This is a popular destination for those who appreciate traditional Emirati flavours presented in a modern setting. Its menu boasts classic dishes like machboos, luqaimat, beef shakshouka, balaleet, and regag, alongside innovative creations that blend traditional recipes with contemporary flair. The restaurant features a chic and modern interior characterised by minimalist design, creating a welcoming atmosphere perfect for casual meals and special occasions.

Logma Opening Times: Daily, 10am until midnight. Location: Dubai Mall.