Celebrate International Falafel Day in Dubai: Discover the city's top falafel spots

Dubai: Today marks International Falafel Day, celebrated annually on June 12. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore Dubai's vibrant falafel scene. This cherished Middle Eastern delicacy has found a place here, where traditional recipes blend with modern culinary innovation.

Whether you're a longtime falafel enthusiast or trying it for the first time, Dubai's diverse falafel landscape offers something for every palate. This International Falafel Day, take the chance to delve into the rich culinary traditions that make this city a true food destination. From the bustling streets of Al Karama to the modern towers of Downtown Dubai, falafel continues to bring people together, one crispy, flavorful bite at a time.

Falafel, the crispy deep-fried fritter made from chickpeas or fava beans, has become a global ambassador for Middle Eastern cuisine. International Falafel Day honours this beloved dish and its global impact on culinary traditions and plant-based diets. In Dubai, falafel represents the city's multicultural dining landscape, offering both authentic traditional preparations and creative contemporary interpretations. Local restaurants often source ingredients from across the region to ensure authentic flavours while adapting to local tastes and preferences.

One cult-favourite Lebanese street food brand, Allo Beirut serves its golden falafel in every shape and size across all UAE locations. From classic Arabic wraps to saj, spicy manakish, and complete falafel feasts, the best part is that all items are priced under AED 25!

Located in Downtown Dubai, Operation Falafel is a go-to spot for enjoying falafel at its best. Known as one of the top street food places in Dubai, this popular chain offers a modern take on authentic Arabic street food. They revolutionize falafel presentation while maintaining classic flavors.

Location: Downtown Dubai

Specialty: Modern Arabic street food approach

Must-Try: Signature falafel wraps and bowls

Atmosphere: Contemporary casual dining

Arabian Tea House is famous for having the best falafel in Bur Dubai. This restaurant serves a unique green falafel that has become a great hit among customers, providing a delightful twist on the traditional dish.

Location: Al Fahidi Street, Bur Dubai

Specialty: Green falafel (unique preparation)

Must-Try: Traditional green falafel with authentic accompaniments

Atmosphere: Traditional Arabic setting

Located in Dubai Mall, this restaurant is a popular choice for shoppers seeking a light meal. It offers crispy falafel served with spiced tahini.

Location: Dubai Mall

Specialty: Crispy falafel with spiced tahini

Must-Try: Falafel plates accompanied by various mezze options

Atmosphere: Mall dining with a quality restaurant experience

Staying true to Arabic tradition and heritage, Manoushe Street is one of the most popular restaurants known for its shawarma and falafel wraps. This Lebanese restaurant uses "nature's best ingredients" and keeps its recipes simple and authentic.

Location: Multiple locations across Dubai

Specialty: Traditional Lebanese falafel and wraps

Must-Try: Authentic falafel wraps with fresh ingredients

Atmosphere: Casual Lebanese dining

Another standout in Dubai's falafel scene, Zaroob combines street food authenticity with restaurant-quality service, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Specialty: Street food-style presentation

Must-Try: Falafel combinations with various Middle Eastern sides

Atmosphere: Vibrant street food-inspired setting

For an authentic neighbourhood experience, the Al Karama area hosts several local falafel specialists that offer traditional preparations at excellent value. Look for spots like Shop 1, Ground Floor, Al Sharafi Building, opposite Zainal Mohebi Plaza, Street 11, Al Karama, Dubai.

This well-known establishment has been serving legendary Lebanese street food for decades. Al Mallah is famous for its iconic falafel—think crunchy golden bites wrapped in pillowy bread, slathered with creamy hummus and drizzled with tangy tahini. It’s the kind of street food that makes you weak at the knees!

Best times to visit

Most falafel restaurants in Dubai experience their busiest hours during lunchtime (12 PM - 2 PM) and dinner time (7 PM - 10 PM). For the best experience, consider visiting during off-peak hours or making reservations at popular spots.

What to order

Classic Falafel Plate: Includes 6-8 falafel balls served with hummus, tahini, and fresh vegetables.

Falafel Wrap: Perfect for on-the-go dining, wrapped in fresh pita or lavash.

Falafel Bowl: A modern presentation over a rice or salad base.

Mixed Mezze: Combines falafel with other Middle Eastern appetizers.