11-04-2025
How to Spend an Egyptian Day in Dubai
From foul to pharaohs, this is how to experience Egypt in Dubai.
Apr 08, 2025
Craving a bit of home while you're in the land of brunches and beach clubs?
Whether it's the crispy bite of a proper ta'ameya, the warm chaos of a perfectly layered koshari, or a boutique that knows how to say ya gameel in handbag form, Dubai has plenty of ways to channel the spirit of Egypt.
From hidden foodie gems to cultural hotspots, nostalgic tunes to a touch of pharaonic grandeur, here's your ultimate guide to spending a day in Dubai—Egyptian style. 9 AM – Ta'ameya Time at Hadoota Masreya
Start your day the right way: deep-fried, carb-loaded, and unapologetically Egyptian. Hadoota Masreya nails the Cairo breakfast vibe with crispy ta'ameya, smoky foul, and piping hot baladi bread. The decor? Think vintage Egypt with just enough flair to make you forget you're on Al Wasl Road. 11 AM – Fashion Fix at Okhtein
Egyptian design, but make it high fashion. Okhtein brings serious style cred with statement bags and accessories crafted by skilled artisans back home. Founded by Egyptian sisters Aya and Mounaz Abdelraouf, the brand is all about heritage meets now. Walk in curious, walk out couture. 1 PM – Lunch at Cairo Gourmet
📍Al Safa
Yes, you can get koshari in Dubai—and it's legit. Cairo Gourmet is a low-key gem serving up all the hits: molokhia, grilled meats, and a lentil-laced koshari that hits the nostalgia spot hard. Bonus points for the traditional vibes and decor that feels straight out of Garden City. 3:30 PM – Souvenir Stop: Global Village (Seasonal)
📍Global Village, Dubailand (check seasonal hours)
If you're visiting during shopping season, hit the Egypt pavilion at Global Village for handwoven rugs, silver jewelry, and more 'made back home' goods than your suitcase can probably handle. It's touristy—but in the best way. 5 PM – Seafood à la Alexandria at Sardina
📍Jumeirah
Sardina brings the Alexandrian fish house experience to Dubai—grilled seafood, psaria salads, and that unmistakable Mediterranean simplicity. No frills, just flavor. 7 PM – Chill Time at Al Sukaria Café
📍Dubai Marina
Grab a table, order some mint tea, and sink into a shisha session at Al Sukaria. This Marina café channels downtown Cairo energy with mezze, music, and a steady flow of nostalgia. Bonus: the people-watching is top-tier. 8:30 PM – Pharaohcore at Wafi City
📍Oud Metha
You've never truly experienced themed real estate until you've wandered through Wafi City. Giant sphinxes? Check. Pyramid-shaped windows? Also check. It's kitsch, it's dramatic, it's everything. Don't skip Khan Murjan Souk downstairs—less mall, more medieval marketplace.
