Come one, come all and treat yourself to the explosion of flavours that is Emirati cooking!

Emirati cuisine is famous for an infusion of spices and ingredients from throughout Asia and the Middle East. The food represents the UAE’s diverse population; Emirati food is a flavourful mix of spices with a focus on meat, fish and grains followed by sweet treats and teas to finish a meal.

And putting local food on the pedestal it deserves, chefs in Abu Dhabi are offering menus highlighting regional delicacies. The Emirati Cuisine Programme is helmed by acclaimed Emirati chef Khulood Atiq, he has banded together with Head Chefs across the capital to prepare an exciting mix of local dishes, which show local cooking at its very best.

So, take this opportunity to explore the best of Emirati cooking, see participating hotels here.

4 Traditional Emirati Dishes Everyone Has To Try

Harees

This moreish dish is particularly popular during Ramadan. It’s a well-seasoned wheat-based dish mixed with meat and has a porridge-like consistency. Harees is slow-cooked in a clay oven or pot and served with ghee (clarified butter). A hearty meal for the whole family!

12 Abu Dhabi hotels are whipping up a storm of Emirati dishes – see them here

Madrooba

Fish is the star of the show in many regional dishes and Madrooba, in particular, is a tasty treat! It’s made up of salted fish, spices and thick sauce, the fish is either grilled, fried or poached and the result is a perfectly delish dish. For seafood lovers, this is a must.

12 Abu Dhabi hotels are whipping up a storm of Emirati dishes – see them here

Rice

Rice. But not like you know it. Traditional Emirati rice is served with saffron, nuts and spices. The perfect side for any main dish, or plentiful enough for you to enjoy on its own. (For the days you’re saving room for dessert).

12 Abu Dhabi hotels are whipping up a storm of Emirati dishes – see them here

Luqaimat

Luqaimat (meaning bitesize) is a sweet dumpling that’s the MOST delicious dessert. Think hot dough in hot oil and you’re nearly there. If you have a sweet tooth, these mouthfuls of hot dough will be right up your alley.

12 Abu Dhabi hotels are whipping up a storm of Emirati dishes – see them here

12 hotels have updated and refreshed their menus with their twist on Emirati cuisine

Learn more here