12 unmissable music events in the UAE this April
April is a playlist come to life, with unmissable music events in the UAE lighting up stages across the country. Global icons, underground legends, and rising stars – each bringing their own sound, energy, and crowd. Whether it's a massive arena show, a beachside set, or a late-night gig in the city, music events in the UAE this April are all about live music at its best. Here are 12 unmissable music events in the UAE this April. Dubai Bedouin
When: April 4, 2025
Where: Be Beach
If you're into musical storytelling, Bedouin will be the highlight of your weekend. The DJ duo (Tamer Malki and Rami Abousabe) are known for their signature sound, combining Middle Eastern influences with deep, euphoric sets, earning them their spot at events like Coachella and Burning Man. Bedouin are more than just DJs, they are producers, musicians, singers, songwriters, and multi-instrumentalists, and they've mastered a distinctive and timeless sound that has connected with crowds from all corners of the world. This Friday, they're bringing that magic to Be Beach for a night. Rolbac and Alex Twin are on warm-up duties, so expect a proper build-up before the main event.
Bedouin, Be Beach, Dubai Marina, Friday, April 4, 7pm onwards, tickets starting at Dhs195, tables from Dhs5,000, lounge tables from Dhs8,000. Tel: (0) 54 751 1119. Tickets are available at dubai.platinumlist.net. For reservations, contact reservations@bebeachdxb.com. www.bebeachdxb. @bebeachdxb Fideles
When: April 5, 2025
Where: Be Beach
The party doesn't stop after Bedouin. Round off your weekend with Fideles, the Italian duo who've carved out a space in the underground scene with releases on Afterlife, Innervisions, and more. Their sets are a perfect balance – deep, melodic, and packed with groovy energy. Ryan Woods and Alex Twin will be warming things up before Fideles take over, closing out the weekend on a high.
Fideles, Be Beach, Dubai Marina, Saturday, April 5, 7pm onwards, tickets starting at Dhs150, tables from Dhs4,000, lounge/sofa table reservations starting at Dhs6,000. Tel: (0) 54 751 1119. Tickets are available at dubai.platinumlist.net. For reservations, contact reservations@bebeachdxb.com . www.bebeachdxb. @bebeachdxb Adriatique
When: April 5, 2025
Where: Terra Solis Dubai
Tomorrowland brings Swiss electronic duo Adriatique to Terra Solis Dubai on April 5 for a night of deep, hypnotic beats in the heart of the city. Expect an immersive soundscape where melodic techno meets the raw beauty of the dunes. For those looking to make the most of it, overnight stays are available to extend the experience beyond the music. Exclusive pre-sale access is now open – secure your spot now before it's gone.
Book via terrasolisdubai.com InClassica International Music Festival 2025
When: April 6 to 21, 2025
Where: Dubai Opera
InClassica International Music Festival 2025 returns to Dubai next month, taking place from April 6 to 21, taking place at Dubai Opera. The two-week festival will bring together an incredible lineup of world-renowned perfumers who have classical music running through their veins. As with previous editions, expect a packed line-up of astonishing young talent and the world's most established and famous musicians. Tickets are already on sale on dubaiopera.com and prices to see any of the shows start from Dhs199. Tickets for the shows are nearly selling out, so book the ones you want to see quick. Read more here.
InClassica International Music Festival, Dubai Opera, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai, April 6 to 21, from Dhs199. Tel: (0)4 440 8888. @dubaiopera Damage
When: April 11
Where: Bla Bla Dubai
One of the UK's most iconic R&B groups, Damage is heading to Dubai for a one-night-only performance at Bla Bla Dubai. The group made their debut back in 1995 offering smooth harmonies, catchy melodies, with a blend of R&B to feed our souls. Their most popular tunes are (but not limited to) Forever, After the Love Has Gone, and If You're Thinking About Me. They even did an R&B/Soul cover of Eric Clapton's You Look Wonderful Tonight. Expect pure nostalgia when these and more unforgettable tunes fill the night at The Tent. Do note, the venue is strictly limited to 21+. Ticket prices starting at Dhs245 and you can get your tickets here.
Bla Bla Dubai, The Beach at JBR, Dubai, prices from Dhs245. Tel: (0)4 584 4111. blabladubai.ae CamelPhat
When: April 11
Where: Five Luxe JBR
Grammy-nominated duo CamelPhat are heading to Dubai this April bringing their hypnotic house music to Five Luxe JBR. You will know them for their popular hits Cola – a tune so good it was recommended by Noel Gallagher of rock band Oasis, Breathe, Spektrum and For a Feeling. On the night, they will be joined by Adam Ten and Sam Oui. Arrive early if you want to hit the dance floor. Tickets start from Dhs150.
Book via playapachadubai.com ANTS Ibiza
When: April 12, 2025
Where: Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour Experience
Dubai's nightlife is no stranger to big names, but this one hits different. ANTS, the underground powerhouse from Ibiza, is making its debut at Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour Experience on Saturday, April 12, and if you know ANTS, you already know what's coming – deep, underground sound and techno, insane production, and a crowd that's here purely for the music. Here's why ANTS at Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour Experience is one of the unmissable music events in the UAE this April. Expect mind-blowing visuals, pounding basslines, electronic music in an open-air setting that'll make every drop hit harder, and an atmosphere designed for those who live and breathe house and techno. Since launching last year, Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour Experience has been delivering some of the best nights out in the city, with presale tickets flying out in record time. If history is anything to go by, this won't just be a night out, it'll be one for the books, so don't sleep on this – secure your spot now.
Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour Experience, Dubai Marina, Saturday, April 12. Tel: (0)58 888 8756. Sign up for first access to tickets and VIP tables at ushuaiadubai.com The Script
When: April 12, 2025
Where: Dubai Media City Amphitheatre
This year, McGettigan's is hosting a 'Late Late Paddy's Party' and has invited The Script to celebrate the event. Taking place on April 12 at everyone's favourite alfresco live music hub, Media City Amphitheatre, the Late Late Paddy's Party will feature a full, sun-soaked day of live music, food trucks, pop-up bars, and a county-sized serving of signature McGettigan's craic. The 12-hour, grass-top festival will also see The Coronas performing for the crowds. Early bird tickets are live now and priced at just Dhs249, available from mcgettigans.com. Read more here.
Mcgettigans' x Late Paddy's Party, Dubai Media City Amphitheatre, Dubai Media City, midday to midnight, from Dhs249. mcgettigans.com Mind Against
When: April 16, 2025
Where: Terra Solis
Italian-born, Berlin-based DJ Duo Mind Against expertly blend IDM, house and techno beats and you can hear their bangers live when they perform under the stars at Terra Solis on April 16. The high energy performers will be joined by rising star, Maxi Meraki and Lebanese DJ Ziad Ghosn as you party the night away amongst the desert dunes. Tickets start from Dhs150.
Book via terrasolisdubai.com Michael Learns To Rock
When: April 27, 2025
Where: Coca-Cola Arena
Michael Learns To Rock takes the Coca-Cola Arena stage in Dubai for the first time in April. Formed in 1988, the iconic Danish band has captured hearts across the world with their tunes, including Sleeping Child, 25 Minutes, Paint My Love, and other timeless hits. Want to relive the magic? Make sure you grab your tickets here.
Michael Learns To Rock, Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk, April 27, from Dhs199. coca-cola-arena.com Abu Dhabi Club Social
When: April 18 – 20, 2025
Where: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
For a weekend packed with nostalgic anthems and indie bangers, Club Social Abu Dhabi is the place to be. Scheduled for April 18-20, 2025, the festival at Etihad Park will feature performances from the likes of Usher, Snow Patrol, and The Kooks. This celebration of feel-good music is sure to transport you back in time, blending pop, rock, and indie hits. With a mix of live music, creative activations, and more, Club Social is the perfect festival for music lovers and nostalgia seekers alike.
Club Social, Etihad Park, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, April 18 to 20, tickets available January 2025 from Dhs295. clubsocial.ae Bred
When: April 23 – 27, 2025
Where: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
BRED Abu Dhabi is back, and it's about to take over Yas Island from April 23-27 with a whole week of music, culture, streetwear, and everything in between. This year, the festival is centered around an all-star line-up, but it's Nas who's making the biggest splash. He's one of the most influential artists in hip-hop, and he's taking centre stage on Friday, April 25. Nas in Abu Dhabi is going to be a masterclass in storytelling, beats, and everything that makes Nas a living legend, and we're here for it. Nas won't be the only one bringing heat to the stage. The opening night on Thursday, April 24 will feature Egypt's Cairokee, a band known for their electric rock vibes, and Lebanese indie rockers Adonis. It's a perfect mix of regional talent setting the tone for the festival. And the buzz doesn't stop there – Canadian artist PARTYNEXTDOOR will also join the line-up on Saturday, April 26. Expect a smooth blend of his signature R&B and electronic beats to keep the vibes rolling. Tickets are already on sale with general admission starting at Dhs245, and for those who want to get a little closer to the action, Golden Circle tickets are going for Dhs545. The full line-up is still being revealed, so stay tuned.
Bred Festival Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. bredabudhabi.com OFFLIMITS
When: April 26, 2025
Where: Etihad Park, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
OFFLIMITS 2025 is turning up the heat. Joining Ed Sheeran on April 26 at Etihad Park are the Kaiser Chiefs, bringing indie rock anthems like Ruby and I Predict a Riot to Abu Dhabi. With their electrifying energy and timeless hits, the Leeds-born band is set to light up the stage alongside Sheeran's epic two-hour set. More artists will be announced soon.
OFFLIMITS Festival, Etihad Park, Yas Island, April 26, 2025, from Dhs495. platinumlist.net
Images: Supplied/Instagram
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
What's On
8 hours ago
- What's On
The biggest museums around the world yet to open in 2025
Zayed National Museum | Photo credit: Foster and Partners Zayed National Museum, one of the UAE's most significant cultural megaprojects, is set to open this year. Four years in the making, art and culture enthusiasts will finally be able to walk through its doors in December 2025. If you've visited the Louvre Abu Dhabi, you may have seen the museum slowly taking shape in the background. The five striking steel structures represent the wings of a true regional icon, the falcon. The museum highlights falconry, as it's an important part of the UAE's heritage, and Sheikh Zayed himself was a great enthusiast and promoter of falconry. Historically, the Bedouin community relied on falcons to hunt for food in the harsh desert environment. Today, falconry is celebrated as the UAE's most honoured traditional sport. Inside this architectural marvel, the museum will pay tribute to the inspiring story of the nation and its visionary founder, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. No date has been announced, but we do know it's in December. It could most likely be on December 2, which is UAE National Day, but this is to be confirmed. Team What's On will be keeping a close eye for any updates. @znmuae Grand Egyptian Museum | Giza, Egypt An admirer of Egyptian art? Then you've likely heard about the highly anticipated opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). First announced in 1992, construction began in 2005 and was fully completed in 2023. Though initially slated to open earlier, the launch was delayed due to regional security concerns. Inside, visitors will finally be able to view the complete treasure of King Tutankhamun displayed together for the first time since Howard Carter's groundbreaking discovery in 1922. The collection includes over 5,000 artefacts, including the iconic gold death mask. A highlight of the experience will be a virtual tomb recreation that brings Carter's discovery to life. Beyond King Tut, the museum will showcase over 100,000 artefacts, offering what many consider the ultimate pilgrimage for ancient history lovers. Can't wait to visit? The GEM Complex is currently offering limited access to certain areas ahead of the official opening. These include the Main Galleries, Grand Hall, Grand Staircase, commercial area, and exterior gardens. However, the Tutankhamun galleries and the Khufu's Boats Museum will remain closed until the official launch. As of now, the official opening is scheduled for November 1, 2025. That said, given past delays, it's wise to wait until the date is firmly confirmed and tickets are released before booking flights or accommodation. Dib International Contemporary Art Museum | Bangkok, Thailand Dib International Contemporary Art Museum | Bangkok, Thailand | Photo credit: WHY Architecture Set to open in December 2025, this will be Thailand's first museum dedicated to international contemporary art. The museum will showcase the private collection of the Osathanugrah family, who are well-known for their legacy in Thai business, as well as their lineage of artists, philanthropists, and collectors. The vision for the museum came from the late Petch Osathanugrah, a celebrated collector of international contemporary works and masterpieces by Thai artists. Although he sadly passed away in 2023, the dream has been brought to life by his son, Purat (Chang) Osathanugrah. Located in downtown Bangkok, the museum occupies a repurposed 1980s steel warehouse. While much of the original industrial structure has been preserved, it now incorporates striking contemporary design elements. The second floor retains key architectural features, such as traditional Thai-Chinese window frames and ceilings. This balance between preservation and modernity reflects the museum's name, Dib, a Thai word meaning 'raw' or 'natural state.' Visitors can also enjoy a spacious central courtyard, an outdoor sculpture garden, and a cone-shaped mosaic-tiled gallery space called The Chapel, adding to the museum's unique and immersive atmosphere. National Museum of Photography | The Netherlands National Museum of Photography in The Netherlands They say a picture is worth a thousand words. Imagine the stories waiting to be discovered in a museum that will house millions of photographs, each capturing a unique Dutch perspective on the world. With a mission to become the international platform for Dutch photography, the museum is dedicated to preserving, celebrating, and sharing the country's photographic heritage in all its diversity. Set within a historic nine-storey warehouse in Rotterdam's docklands, the museum will be one of the largest photography collections in the world. How many, you ask? Over 6.5 million photographic images will be held in its archives. Beyond its expansive exhibition spaces, the museum will feature a photography bookshop and library, an education centre, community areas, and if you need a break, a museum café and a rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views of the Rotterdam skyline. An official opening date has yet to be announced, but anticipation is already building for what promises to be a landmark cultural destination. New Museum expansion | New York, USA A rendering of the New Museum Expansion While it may not qualify as a brand-new museum opening, the seven-storey expansion of the New Museum of Contemporary Art on Manhattan's Lower East Side will mark a major transformation. Designed by OMA and led by Rem Koolhaas, the expansion will nearly double the museum's size, introducing a new restaurant and an expanded bookstore. The development will also add dedicated spaces for artist residencies and public programmes, further cementing the museum's role as a hub for experimental contemporary art. One architectural highlight is the atrium stairway, designed to offer sweeping views of the surrounding neighborhood and serve as a platform for innovative art installations. According to the museum's website, the expanded space is scheduled to open in fall 2025. @newmuseum Leonardo da Vinci Museum of North America | Colorado, USA Leonardo da Vinci Museum of North America | left: Digital Hart Media, right: Getty Images Renaissance art lovers, get ready. North America's first museum dedicated entirely to Leonardo da Vinci is opening this fall. While da Vinci is most famously associated with the Mona Lisa , he was a true polymath whose genius extended across art, science, engineering, and anatomy. Currently, there are only five Leonardo da Vinci museums worldwide; this new addition will bring the total to six and marks the first institution of its kind on the continent. Drawing from da Vinci's legendary sketchbooks, which contain over 13,000 drawings, the museum will offer interactive exhibitions and life-sized replicas of his inventions. These models are produced by the Artisans of Florence, a touring exhibition company closely affiliated with the Museo Leonardo da Vinci in Florence. Whether you're an art historian or simply curious about one of history's greatest minds, this new museum promises a fascinating and immersive experience. @davincimuseumna Like it or not, AI is now woven into our daily lives, and often in ways we don't even realise. From Siri and Alexa to ChatGPT and countless other tools, artificial intelligence is quietly shaping how we live, work, and communicate. Now, it's making its mark on the world of art and culture, with AI-generated art stepping into the spotlight. And that evolution will take centre stage when DATALAND opens its doors in Los Angeles. Housed within a 20,000-square-foot space, DATALAND will immerse visitors in a bold new world of evolving, interactive installations. Powered by an AI model trained on vast datasets from institutions like the Smithsonian, London's Natural History Museum, and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the experience will transform natural imagery into dynamic, sensory-rich 'living paintings', complete with soundscapes and even AI-generated scents. On social media, the project describes itself as a space 'where human imagination meets the creative potential of machines.' DATALAND is set to open in late 2025, promising a cultural experience unlike anything we've seen before. @datalandmuseum
What's On
3 days ago
- What's On
5 restaurants and bars in Dubai that mimic the night sky
If you miss dining outdoors in Dubai, book a table at these restaurants with a starry night theme. They bring the twinkling outdoor atmosphere indoors so you can get the best of the night sky without breaking into a sweat. Here are 5 restaurants and bars in Dubai offering a Starry Night experience Attiko Attiko Attiko brings high rooftop energy at W Dubai – Mina Seyahi with tables under the stars for diners to enjoy. While it's too warm to enjoy the outdoors, indoors you can dine beneath twinkling lights mimicking the night sky. And thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows offering sweeping views of the skyline, you'll really feel like your dining outdoors. To really experience this, visit post sunset. Location: Attiko, W Dubai – Mina Seyahi, Dubai Marina Contact: (04) 350 9983 @attikodubai Duomo Dubai Love a stunning digital display? At Duomo at The Dubai Edition, take a seat under a stunning dome, and as you dine, you will be graced with stunning projections. Duomo, in case you're wondering, is Italian for 'cathedral.' The name is reflected in its interiors, which include a 15-meter-high vaulted cathedral-styled arch, a lancet (tall) window, and other Italian designs. The displays range from starry nights to art scenes and more. Location: The Dubai Edition, Downtown Dubai Contact: (04) 602 3399 @duomodubai Galaxy Bar You can't have a name like Galaxy Bar and not show off a space-stars-cosmos-themed atmosphere. This ultra-luxury late-night lounge is ranked number 50 in the World's 50 Best Bars and runs on an 'if you know, you know' profile, and it has capacity for only a handful of guests at a time. Which means you have to make a reservation to avoid disappointment. Location: Gate Village, DIFC Contact: (050) 513 5908 @galaxybardxb Opso Located in Dubai Mall, Opso is a space offering three distinct concepts: a café, an intimate dining area, and the large dining hall. Over the winter, diners will reserve a spot on the wraparound terrace where they can enjoy shisha and views of the Dubai Fountains. However, over summer, stay indoors and pick a seat under the starry ceiling, where you can also enjoy the hotel's other celestial elements. The menu sways between Mediterranean and Middle Eastern. Location: Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai Contact: (050) 775 9029 @opsodubai Zenon Dubai Zenon If you love digital art and AI, you'll love Zenon Dubai. It's a space where gastronomy, AI, entertainment, and innovation collide, offering up a unique dining experience. Digital screens surround you as you dine, showcasing majestic AI-generated visuals from stars and the galaxy, but also other elements like Greek mythology and underwater scenes. Other elements you won't be able to miss include the stunning arches, sculptures and high ceilings which come together seamlessly. Location: Kempinski Central Avenue, Downtown Dubai Contact: (04) 837 7222 @zenondubai Images: Instagram > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
What's On
6 days ago
- What's On
A to Z food guide: Iconic foods in UAE you have to try
From aromatic spices to sizzling street eats, the UAE is a culinary crossroads where tradition meets innovation with every dish. In this A to Z food guide, we're serving up a mouthwatering journey through some of the most iconic dishes you absolutely have to try here in the UAE. Do note, while not all dishes mentioned below are traditional Emirati cuisine, they originate from the Middle Eastern region and are popular here in the UAE. Arayes Arayes Arayes is a Lebanese crisp pan-fried pita packed with spicy, aromatic meat filling. Arayes actually means 'bride and groom' in English, and certain tribes served this dish to honour the newlyweds. Where to try: Al Mallah Dhiyafah Balaleet Balaleet A staple breakfast dish of Emirati cuisine, Balaleet traditionally consists of vermicelli sweetened with sugar, cardamom, rose water, and saffron and served with an omelette. Where to try: The Arabian Tea House Chabab Chabab Chabab (also spelled jabab or chebab) is an Emirati version of a pancake that is fermented with yeast and flavoured with cardamom and saffron. You can enjoy it with honey and cheese, too. Where to try: Al Ustad Special Kabab Dawood Basha Dawood Basha The Middle-Eastern version of meatballs, Dawood Basha is a meatball stew paired with tender potatoes and peas, simmered in a flavourful tomato sauce. It is named after its greatest fan, King Daoud Basha who was the governor of Baghdad during the Ottoman Empire. He loved the dish so much, he had it every day. Where to try: Lebanese Home Kitchen Emirati Machboos Emirati Machboos If you've been to any Emirati family gathering or celebration, you're sure to see Emirati Machboos on the table. It's a dish prepped with basmati rice, meat (lamb or chicken) and mild spices. Essentially, it's biryani but with an Emirati twist. Where to try: The Arabian Tea House Falafel Falafel This is a popular Middle Eastern dish, and can be found at numerous spots around the UAE from small hole-in-the-wall cafes to fancy restaurants. It is made up of mashed chickpeas, herbs, onion, garlic, and spices and can be either fried or baked. You can either eat it as is paired with tahina sauce, or get it in a wrap with fresh salad. Where to try: Al Mallah Dhiyafah Ghuzi Ghuzi Also spelt Khuzi, Ghuzi is considered the national dish of the UAE. A whole lamb is slow-roasted until the meat falls off the bone. It is paired with nuts, vegetables, raisins, and a blend of spices on top of a bed of rice. Where to try: Siraj Restaurant Harees Harees Harees is a traditional Arabic dish with a porridge-like consistency but is prepared with wheat grain, meat, and ghee. If you prefer your dishes with more heat, try Haleem, essentially a spiced-up version of Harees. Where to try: Khalid Huriah Traditional Kitchen and Restaurant Ijjeh Ijjeh Love eggs? Try Ijjeh, a flavourful Middle Eastern egg dish that is a blend of eggs, herbs, and spices. If you want to jazz it up a little bit, add in vegetables like courgettes or peppers. It can also be pan-fried until crispy and be consumed as a fritter. Jasheed Jasheed | Al Fanar Fans of seafood here in the UAE must try Jasheed – an Emirati dish primarily consumed in coastal cities like Ras Al Khaimah. The curry is prepared with small pieces of shark (or other local fish), onions, garlic, and spices and served with rice. Where to try: Al Fanar Seafood Restaurant, Bahar Restaurant Knafeh You can't consider yourself a fan of sweet treats if you've lived in the UAE and haven't tried Knafeh. The traditional Palestinian dessert is made with kadayif (spun pastry dough) and layered with cheese and soaked in a sweet, sugar-based syrup. It is crunchy on the outside and gooey on the inside. The dessert has deep roots in Palestine. Where to try: Palestine pavilion at Global Village UAE, Feras Al Diyafa Sweets and Mama'esh Luqaimat Luqaimat Luqaimat translates to 'small bites' here in the UAE. It is a popular Middle Eastern dessert consisting of deep-fried, sweet dumplings, drizzled with date syrup or honey. It's crunch on the outside, and soft and airy on the inside, and it's best when devoured piping hot. While it is usually associated and consumed during Ramadan, if you head to Global Village UAE, you can enjoy it throughout the season. Where to try: Global Village UAE, Al Fanar Mehalabiya Mehalabiya Mehalabiya, or Muhalabia is a traditional (and delicious) Middle Eastern milk pudding, made with as few as four ingredients. It's typically made using a combination of milk, sugar, flour, and sugar. It can be served hot or cold, though many prefer the latter. It can also be garnished with pistachios and rose petals. Where to try: Qwaider Al Nabulsi Namoura Namoura Namoura is a type of semolina cake that goes by many other names, including namoura, basbousa, revani, and safra. It is made typically made using coarse semolina, Greek yogurt, coconut, butter or ghee, sugar, baking powder and baking soda. It is drizzled with sugar syrup, and sweet tooth fans will love it for its rich, buttery flavour, and soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Where to try: Brocar Sweets Olives (served with zaatar or labneh) Olives Heading to an Emirati restaurant or home? Most likely, marinated olives will be served paired with a dip. It often makes up part of the selection of hot and cold appetizers, with many pairing it with cheese and bread. It's simple but very delicious, so much so that you'll find the serving bowl empty before even realising. Qahwa Qahwa In Arabic, qahwa primarily means coffee. It is a traditional method of preparing coffee in the Middle East, and each country has its own unique recipe. The coffee has a distinctive depth of flavor and earthy, nutty notes which is brewed in a traditional Arabic coffee pot (called dallah). Where to try: Cafe Bateel Rigag An Emirati flatbread, which is extremely thin and crispy, with an egg and cheese filling, and sometimes honey. It is cooked on a hot griddle and is usually enjoyed at breakfast. Where to try: Al Jalboot Shawarma Bring up the topic of shawarma with your friends, and the first thing you're bound to hear is declarations of where the best shawarma in Dubai is. The popular street food in the Middle East (which origins in Turkey) and here in Dubai, and there are more than enough options to try. Essentially, it is prepared with spit-roasted layers of lamb, beef, or chicken, which is stuffed into a pita bread with salad (lettuce, tomato, and pickles) and either garlic sauce, or tahina. You can add fries to your shawarma, or enjoy them on the side. Where to try: Al Hallab, Eat & Drink restaurant, Triple FFF Thareed This traditional Arab bread soup or stew originates from Mecca, Saudi Arabia, but is a popular dish in the Gulf region. The dish is even mentioned in a collection of sayings of the Prophet Mohammed. It is a slow-cooked stew of tender meat, spiced tomato broth, and vegetables, infused with spices. Thareed is typically eaten during Ramadan as a light yet filling meal to break the fast at Iftar but can be enjoyed throughout the year as a warm comfort food. Where to try: Noor Al Mandi Warak Enab In Arabic, 'Warak Enab translates to vine leaves or grape leaves. The dishes are usually stuffed with a mixture of rice, meat (usually beef), and spices, and then boiled in water. The water can also be infused with lemon or tomato for more flavour. The ingredients can vary from region to region, but each family can also make it differently. Where to try: Ybala Wrq Ena Yalanji Image: Getty Images Yalanji is the vegetarian version of Warak Enab. Instead of meat, the stuffing is a mix of white rice, typically short grain, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, parsley, garlic, eggplant and more. Similar to Warak Enab, it is cooked in a tangy and flavourful broth until they melt in your mouth. Yum. Where to try: Yalangi Kitchen & Cafe Zataar/Zataar Manakeeh Zataar Manakeesh Manakeesh is a popular Middle Eastern flatbread dish, and comes in various forms but usually with zaatar. Zataar is a Palestinin blend of wild herbs, popular in Middle Eastern cuisine. Usually it is enjoyed with manakeesh – a Levantine flatbread, or you can add it as an ingredient to other Middle Eastern dishes. Where to try: Kaak Al Manara Restaurant & Bakery Images: Getty Images
