Top 30 Ramadan Food Specials: Must-Try Dishes at Iftar Buffets in Dubai

Traditional Emirati Delicacies: Celebrating Heritage with Flavor

Emirati cuisine is a mixture of flavors, influenced by centuries of trade, culture, and tradition. During Ramadan, Emirati households and restaurants alike showcase a wide range of dishes that reflect the heritage and hospitality of the region.

Let's delve into some traditional Emirati delicacies that are a must-try during this auspicious month: 

• Luqaimat: These golden nuggets of delight are loved across the Emirates, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Made from a simple batter of flour, yeast, sugar, and saffron. Luqaimat are deep-fried to perfection and drizzled with date syrup or honey, making them an irresistible treat for iftar. 

• Harees: A hearty and comforting dish, Harees embodies the essence of Emirati cuisine with its simplicity and depth of flavour. Slow-cooked wheat and tender meat are simmered together until they melt into a creamy porridge-like consistency, seasoned with a hint of spice and served piping hot, Harees is a soul-warming dish that nourishes both body and spirit during Iftar meals. 

• Balaleet: Balaleet is a quintessential Emirati breakfast dish that also makes a delightful addition to the iftar table. Vermicelli noodles are cooked to perfection and then layered with a fragrant mixture of eggs, saffron, cardamom, and rose water. Topped with a sprinkle of sugar and a handful of fried onions, Balaleet is a symphony of textures and tastes that captivates the palate. It is an amazing way to break the fast during Iftar buffets. 

• Machboos: No Emirati feast is complete without Machboos, a rice dish that takes centre stage at iftar gatherings across the country. Fragrant basmati rice is cooked with an aromatic blend of spices, including cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon, before being layered with tender meat or succulent seafood. Served with a side of tangy tomato sauce and fresh salad, Machboos is a true celebration of Emirati hospitality and culinary craftsmanship. 

• Shakshuka: Shakshuka, a Middle Eastern dish, holds a special place in iftar buffets across Dubai. This flavorful and hearty dish consists of poached eggs in a rich and spicy tomato sauce, infused with garlic, onions, and a blend of aromatic spices such as cumin, paprika, and chilli flakes. Served hot and often accompanied by crusty bread or pita, Shakshuka offers a satisfying combination of protein, vegetables, and complex flavours, making it a popular choice for breaking the fast. Beyond its delicious taste and nourishing qualities, Shakshuka holds cultural significance as a symbol of hospitality and togetherness, inviting guests to share in a communal meal and celebrate the spirit of Ramadan with warmth and generosity. 

• Chabab Bread: Made from a simple mixture of flour, water, yeast, and salt, Chabab bread is rolled out thinly and cooked on a hot griddle until golden and slightly crispy. Its light and airy texture makes it the perfect vessel for soaking up flavorful sauces and dips, while its subtle flavour complements a wide range of dishes. Beyond its culinary significance, Chabab bread embodies the spirit of sharing and communal dining, encouraging guests to come together, break bread, and celebrate the bonds of friendship and family during the holy month of Ramadan. 

International Flavors with a Twist: Fusion Fare for Festive Feasting

In Dubai's diverse culinary landscape, chefs experiment with traditional iftar buffets with international flavours, creating a melting pot of tastes that reflects the city's cosmopolitan identity. From Arabic-inspired sushi rolls to Turkish kebabs with a modern twist, these international dishes add a new dimension to the iftar experience: 

• Arabic-inspired sushi rolls: Combining the delicate art of Japanese sushi with the bold flavours of the Middle East, Arabic-inspired sushi rolls offer a tantalizing fusion of tastes and textures. Tender slices of fish or seafood are wrapped in nori seaweed and sushi rice, then adorned with traditional Arabic ingredients like tahini, sumac, and pickled vegetables, creating a unique and memorable culinary experience. 

• Shawarma sliders with a fusion of global flavours: Uplift the Middle Eastern classic, chefs craft shawarma sliders with a fusion of global flavours, offering a delicious twist on this iconic dish. Tender strips of marinated meat are nestled between soft buns and topped with a variety of international condiments, from tangy barbecue sauce to creamy avocado aioli, resulting in a mouthwatering creation that's perfect for sharing with friends and family during iftar. 

• Moroccan tagines with a Dubai twist: Transporting diners to the bustling streets of Marrakech, Moroccan tagines are reinvented with a Dubai twist, showcasing the rich flavours of North Africa with a modern sensibility. Slow-cooked meats and vegetables are infused with aromatic spices and simmered to perfection in traditional clay pots, creating a symphony of tastes and textures that pay homage to the region's culinary heritage while embracing Dubai's cosmopolitan spirit. 

• Turkish kebabs and mezze platters: Drawing inspiration from the vibrant markets of Istanbul, Turkish kebabs and mezze platters take centre stage at iftar buffets, offering a wide range of flavours and textures. Succulent skewers of grilled meat are paired with an assortment of savoury dips, salads, and flatbreads, creating a feast for the senses that's perfect for breaking the fast in style. 

• Indian-inspired biryani bowls: Bringing the flavours of India to the iftar table, serve up aromatic biryani bowls with a modern twist. Fragrant basmati rice is cooked with a medley of spices and layered with tender pieces of meat or vegetables, creating a dish that's both comforting and indulgent, perfect for savouring during the holy month of Ramadan. 

• Italian-inspired pasta dishes: Embracing the rustic flavours of Italy, iftar buffets feature a selection of Italian-inspired pasta dishes with a Ramadan twist. From creamy carbonara to hearty bolognese, these comforting creations offer a taste of la dolce vita, providing a satisfying and soulful addition to the iftar spread. 

Sweet Treats and Desserts: Indulge in Ramadan Delights

No iftar feast is complete without indulging in the rich and decadent sweet treats and desserts that grace the tables across Dubai during Ramadan. From traditional favourites to innovative creations, these mouthwatering delights are a feast for the senses and a joy to savour. Let's explore some must-try sweet treats and desserts that are synonymous with Ramadan in Dubai:

In Dubai, the dessert table at Iftar Buffets is a sight to behold, brimming with an irresistible list of sweet treats that cater to every palate. From classic Middle Eastern sweets to modern interpretations, these desserts are a celebration of flavour, texture, and tradition: 

• Kunafa: A Middle Eastern pastry, Kunafa delights the senses with its crispy layers of shredded pastry encasing a creamy filling, made from cheese or cream. Drizzled with fragrant sugar syrup and garnished with pistachios, Kunafa is a decadent treat that's as indulgent as it is irresistible. 

• Baklava: Layers of delicate filo pastry are filled with a generous mixture of chopped nuts, usually pistachios, almonds, or walnuts, then soaked in a sweet syrup flavoured with honey, rose water, or orange blossom water. The result is a heavenly confection that's both crunchy and sticky, making Baklava a perennial favourite during Ramadan.

• Umm Ali: A comforting and aromatic bread pudding, Umm Ali is a traditional dessert that's devoured across the Middle East. Layers of flaky pastry are soaked in a rich mixture of milk, cream, and sugar, and then baked until golden and bubbling. Garnished with toasted nuts and dried fruits, Umm Ali is a decadent delight that's perfect for sharing with loved ones.

• Ramadan drinks like Jallab and Tamar Hindi: In addition to sweet treats, Ramadan in Dubai also calls for refreshing beverages to quench the thirst after a day of fasting. Jallab, a popular drink made from dates, grape molasses, and rose water, offers a sweet and floral flavour that's both hydrating and satisfying. Tamar Hindi, a tangy and refreshing drink made from tamarind, sugar, and water, provides a burst of flavour that's perfect for breaking the fast.

• Qatayef: These delicate Arabic pancakes are filled with sweetened nuts or cream, then folded into a crescent shape and fried until golden. Drizzled with honey or sugar syrup and dusted with powdered sugar, Qatayef is a delightful treat that's enjoyed throughout Ramadan. 

• Maamoul: These shortbread-like cookies are filled with dates, nuts, or sweetened semolina, then shaped into intricate moulds and baked until golden. Fragrant with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, Maamoul is a beloved dessert that's often served during special occasions, including Ramadan. 

Healthy and Refreshing Options: Nourishing Choices for Fasting

Breaking the fast during Ramadan is not only about indulging in delicious meals but also about nourishing the body with wholesome and refreshing dishes. After a day of fasting, it's essential to replenish your energy levels with nutritious options that provide hydration, vitamins, and minerals. Explore some healthy and refreshing options perfect for iftar in Dubai:

• Fresh fruit platters and fruit salads: Bursting with colours and flavours, fresh fruit platters and salads are a refreshing option for breaking the fast. Laden with an assortment of seasonal fruits such as watermelon, pineapple, berries, and citrus, these dishes provide a hydrating and vitamin-rich start to the iftar meal, helping to replenish lost fluids and boost energy levels. 

• Lentil soups and vegetable broths: Warm and comforting, lentil soups and vegetable broths are a staple of Ramadan iftars in Dubai. These soups are packed with protein, fibre, and essential nutrients and offer a nourishing and satisfying start to the meal. Infused with aromatic spices and herbs, such as cumin, coriander, and parsley, lentil soups and vegetable broths tantalise the taste buds while providing essential hydration and sustenance. 

• Quinoa and tabbouleh salads: When quinoa is combined with the refreshing flavours of tabbouleh, these salads offer a modern twist on a classic Middle Eastern dish. Nutrient-dense quinoa provides a hearty base, while a medley of fresh herbs, vegetables, and citrus dressing adds brightness and zing. Quinoa and tabbouleh salads are not only delicious but also rich in protein, fibre, and antioxidants, making them an ideal choice for those seeking a healthy and satisfying iftar option. 

• Hummus and baba ganoush with whole grain bread: A staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, hummus and baba ganoush are wholesome dips made from chickpeas and eggplant, respectively. Paired with whole-grain bread or pita, these dips offer a balanced combination of protein, fibre, and healthy fats, making them a nutritious and filling option for breaking the fast. Enjoyed alongside a variety of fresh vegetables, olives, and pickles, hummus and baba ganoush with whole grain bread provide a satisfying start to the iftar meal, helping to keep hunger at bay while nourishing the body with essential nutrients. 

• Greek yoghurt with honey and nuts: Creamy Greek yoghurt is served with a drizzle of golden honey and a sprinkle of crunchy nuts, creating a simple yet satisfying dessert option for iftar. Rich in protein, probiotics, and healthy fats, Greek yoghurt provides a nutritious and filling treat that helps to satisfy sweet cravings while supporting digestive health. Enjoyed alongside fresh fruit or dried dates, Greek yoghurt with honey and nuts is a delicious and wholesome way to conclude the iftar meal on a sweet note. 

• Chia seed pudding: Chia seeds are soaked in coconut milk or almond milk until they form a thick, pudding-like consistency, then flavoured with vanilla, cinnamon, or fruit puree for added sweetness. Topped with fresh berries, sliced almonds, or shredded coconut, chia seed pudding is a nutritious and satisfying dessert option that's rich in fibre, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. Enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, chia seed pudding provides a refreshing and guilt-free indulgence for breaking the fast during Ramadan. 

Luxurious and Gourmet Offerings: Indulge in Exquisite Culinary Creations

For those seeking an opulent and unforgettable iftar experience, Dubai's upscale restaurants and hotels roll out the red carpet with lavish buffets featuring an array of gourmet delicacies. From premium seafood towers to succulent cuts of Wagyu beef, these indulgent offerings promise to uplift your iftar to new heights of luxury: 

• Oysters and seafood towers: Enjoy the freshest bounty of the sea with oysters and seafood towers that showcase an exquisite selection of premium shellfish. Brimming with plump oysters, succulent shrimp, tender crab legs, and other items from the deep, these towers are a feast for the eyes and palate, offering a taste of luxury that's synonymous with the glamorous dining scene in Dubai during Ramadan. 

• Wagyu beef sliders and lamb chops: Savor the richness and tenderness of Wagyu beef sliders and lamb chops, crafted from the finest cuts of meat and expertly prepared to perfection. Make your iftar buffet extra memorable with a symphony of flavour and texture, as the succulent meat melts in your mouth, leaving behind a lingering sensation of indulgence and satisfaction after a whole day of fasting. 

• Caviar and smoked salmon platters: Make your iftar experience extra special with the luxurious allure of caviar and smoked salmon platters, featuring the finest selections of these coveted delicacies. From the briny pop of the caviar pearls to the smooth smoked salmon, each bite is a revelation of exquisite flavour and refinement, transporting you to a realm of unparalleled decadence and sophistication. 

• Artisanal cheeses and charcuterie boards: Embark on a journey of gastronomic delight with artisanal cheeses and charcuterie boards that showcase the finest offerings from around the world. Creamy brie, tangy blue cheeses, savoury cured meats, aromatic pâtés, etc. these boards are going to invite you to indulge in a symphony of flavours and textures that are sure to leave a lasting impression. 

• Foie gras terrine with truffle: Indulge in the ultimate luxury with foie gras terrine infused with the intoxicating aroma of truffles. Silky smooth and decadently rich, each bite is a sensory delight, as the earthy truffle notes complement the buttery richness of the foie gras, creating a culinary masterpiece that's fit for royalty. 

• Lobster bisque with saffron: Treat your palate to the velvety richness of lobster bisque infused with the delicate aroma of saffron. Luxuriously creamy and exquisitely flavoured, each spoonful is a symphony of indulgence, as the sweet lobster meat mingles with the warm, aromatic spices of saffron, enveloping you in a cocoon of culinary bliss. 

Embrace the Culinary Diversity of Dubai's Ramadan Iftar Buffets

So, gather your loved ones, break your fast with gratitude and joy, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary scene of Dubai during Ramadan. Whether you're sharing a meal with family, bonding with friends, or simply indulging in a moment of quiet reflection, may your iftar experiences be filled with love, laughter, and the rich flavours of the season. 

Ramadan Kareem!