Abu Dhabi Cuisine, What to Eat: Street Food
When visiting Abu Dhabi, most travelers immediately think of grand skyscrapers, luxurious hotels, and pristine beaches. But beyond the glitz lies a vibrant street food culture that reflects the city’s rich heritage and multicultural community. From Emirati classics to South Asian and Levantine delights, Abu Dhabi’s street food scene is as diverse as its population — and just as exciting.
If you’re wondering what to eat while exploring the city, here’s a delicious guide to Abu Dhabi’s most popular street food.
1. Shawarma – The King of Street Food
No visit to Abu Dhabi is complete without trying a shawarma. This beloved street food is typically made with spiced chicken or beef, wrapped in soft Arabic bread with garlic sauce, pickles, and fries. It’s fast, affordable, and bursting with flavor — available on almost every street corner.
Where to try it: Shawarma Time, Automatic Restaurant, or local kiosks in Al Khalidiyah and Al Zahiyah.
2. Luqaimat – Sweet Emirati Dumplings
A traditional Emirati dessert that’s often sold from food stalls or during Ramadan nights, luqaimat are golden, crispy dumplings soaked in date syrup or drizzled with honey and sesame seeds. Light and crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside — they’re a perfect sweet treat while walking through a souk.
Tip: Pair it with Arabic coffee (gahwa) for a full cultural experience.
3. Manakish – The Middle Eastern Pizza
Manakish is a Levantine flatbread topped with za’atar, cheese, or minced meat, then baked to perfection. You can find it at bakeries and roadside food carts, often served hot and folded for easy eating on the go.
Try it with: Labneh or olives for a richer flavor.
4. Samosas & Chaats – South Asian Flavors on the Streets
Abu Dhabi’s large Indian and Pakistani communities have brought their vibrant street food traditions with them. Crispy samosas, spicy chaats, and tangy pani puri are widely available, especially around Electra Street and Madinat Zayed.
Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to try local versions with a fusion twist!
5. Karak Chai – Strong Tea With a Kick
After sampling all that savory and spicy food, you’ll want something warm and comforting to drink. Karak chai is a bold, spiced tea made with milk, cardamom, and black tea — a street-side staple served in paper cups across the city.
Best spots: Tea shops in Musaffah, Mina Zayed, or mobile tea vans along Corniche Road.
6. Grilled Corn and Sweet Potatoes
Simple yet satisfying, street vendors often sell grilled corn on the cob brushed with butter and salt, or baked sweet potatoes wrapped in foil. They’re perfect for a quick, healthy snack during an evening stroll along Abu Dhabi’s waterfront.
7. Falafel Sandwiches
Crispy on the outside and soft inside, falafel sandwiches are made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, deep-fried and tucked into pita bread with tahini sauce, pickles, and salad. It’s a vegetarian’s dream and one of the cheapest and tastiest meals you can get in the city.
Final Thoughts
Abu Dhabi’s street food is a flavorful journey through Emirati traditions and the city’s multicultural heartbeat. Whether you’re a meat lover, vegetarian, or someone with a sweet tooth, the streets of Abu Dhabi offer something for every palate. So skip the fancy restaurants for a night and follow the locals — your taste buds will thank you.
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