7 delicious kunafa spots in Dubai, Abu Dhabi to treat your kids before school starts

Back-to-school season doesn’t have to start with grumbles and groans—why not sneak in a little sweet motivation? Kunafa, with its mouthwatering crispy edges and gooey, cheesy center, is basically happiness on a plate, and in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, there’s no shortage of spots serving it up in all its glory. From traditional twists to playful, modern spins, these seven kunafa spots promise a treat that will have your children, smiling all the way to class.

Forget everything you thought you knew about kunafa. This spot is a full-on dessert passport! With a booklet-sized menu featuring kunafas from across the Arab world, it’s basically a world tour for your taste buds. Want the classic Egyptian version? Go for it. Craving the authentic Palestinian twist? They’ve got you covered. Or maybe, try the Nabulsieh Khishna—trust me, it’s peak kunafa bliss. But if you’re feeling adventurous, dive into their Nutella or Lotus-filled creations for a cheeky, modern spin on tradition.

Where to go: Abu Dhabi, Jumeirah 3, Al Ain—your weekend dessert mission starts here.

Looking for a sweet weekend outing with the children? Al Baba Sweets is a treasure trove of Lebanese desserts that’s as fun to explore as it is delicious. From syrup-soaked baklava and classic kunafa to halawet al jibn and handmade Tunisian treats, there’s a little something for every sweet tooth, big or small. Bring the kids along and let them pick their favourites, or grab a colourful box of desserts to share with family and friends later.

Where to go: Al Barsha (next to Mall of the Emirates), Al Safa 2 (Jumeirah)

This spot has all the treats to keep both parents and little ones happy. From affordable Lebanese and Arabic sweets to French cakes and pastries, plus coffee, juices, and ice cream, it’s basically dessert heaven. Let the kids pick their favourites, maybe a gooey chocolate or a crunchy kahk. while you sip a perfectly brewed coffee and plot your next sweet bite.

Where to go: 8 Al Muraqqabat St - Deira - Dubai or,  Corniche Buhairah Corniche Street,opposite Al Noor Masjid - Sharjah

Take the children on a mini dessert adventure at this authentic Arabic spot!. They serve classic cheese katayef with pistachio and pine nuts, plus a treasure trove of sweets like baklava, warbat, mamoul, and hares—all pre-orderable and beautifully arranged on a traditional plate. Feeling extra indulgent? Go wild and request extra stuffing in any treat. Perfect for a family dessert outing, or to take home for a sweet weekend bonding session that’ll have everyone fighting over the last bite!

Where to go: Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi, or Deira, Dubai

Step into Al Aqssa Sweets and enter a world of Arabic dessert joys. From gooey kunafahs to flaky baklavahs, sweet basbousahs, and more, this spot has been serving up delights since 1980 at its Salam Street, Tourist Club Area branch. Kids (and adults) will be in dessert bliss, and if you’re in Abu Dhabi’s Khalidiya area, don’t worry, they opened a second branch three years ago. Perfect for a sweet family outing or a weekend treat that doubles as a mini dessert adventure!

Where to go: Salam Street, Tourist Club, Al Zahiyah - Abu Dhabi

Few things are as heavenly as Kunafa. And when it gets even better, say hello to the Osmaleya! Think of it as a kunafah cake: two crunchy layers of vermicelli hugging a lush, creamy center of fresh cream or cheese. Established in 1989, Tripoli Sweets has been serving up Lebanese dessert magic for decades. Beyond the Osmaleya, you’ll find mamoul sweets, halawat alrez (rice pudding with nuts and cream), and namoura (semolina cake)—all perfect for a sweet family treat or a weekend dessert outing with the children.

Looking for a sweet fix without wandering the city? Wafi Gourmet has you covered! Nestled right in the mall, it’s basically a paradise for Arabic dessert lovers. From flaky baklava to gooey kunafa, they’ve got all the classics—and then some.

Where to go: Dubai Mall