Dubai isn’t just about luxury malls and fine dining—its street food culture is vibrant, multicultural, and absolutely delicious. From Middle Eastern classics to Asian-inspired quick bites, the city offers a wide range of affordable snacks that are big on flavor and perfect for those on the move.

If you’re visiting Dubai or just exploring the local food scene, here are the top 10 street foods you absolutely must try.

1. Shawarma

No list of Dubai street food is complete without shawarma. This juicy, marinated meat (usually chicken or beef) is slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie, then wrapped in soft Arabic bread with garlic sauce, pickles, and fries.

You’ll find shawarma stalls on almost every corner, especially in areas like Deira, Al Rigga, and Jumeirah.

2. Luqaimat

A sweet treat loved across the UAE, luqaimat are small, golden dumplings drizzled with date syrup or honey and sometimes topped with sesame seeds. Crunchy on the outside and soft inside, they’re a popular choice during Ramadan but available year-round from food trucks and traditional markets.

3. Karak Chai

While not technically a food, this spicy, sweet, milky tea is a street food staple in Dubai. You’ll spot lines of cars at tiny roadside tea stalls for a cup of this comforting brew. Try it with samosas or paratha rolls for a quick, satisfying snack.

4. Samboosa

Inspired by Indian samosas, samboosas in Dubai come with local twists—filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. They’re crunchy, spicy, and super satisfying. Grab a few from any local cafeteria or food truck during the evening hours.

5. Falafel

These deep-fried balls of ground chickpeas and herbs are a vegetarian favorite. In Dubai, falafel is served in wraps, sandwiches, or on a plate with hummus and salad. Many shawarma joints also offer falafel sandwiches as a lighter alternative.

6. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Simple yet irresistible, grilled corn is a street food classic found near beaches like JBR or Kite Beach. It's roasted over charcoal and topped with butter, lemon, and spices—perfect for a beachside snack.

7. Manakish

Often called the "Arabic pizza", manakish is a flatbread topped with cheese, za'atar (thyme spice mix), or minced meat. It’s baked in a stone oven and served hot. You can find manakish in bakeries and roadside stalls across the city.

8. Stuffed Paratha Rolls

Popular among South Asian communities, these stuffed flatbread rolls come with fillings like egg, chicken, keema (minced meat), or potato. They’re usually paired with mint chutney or ketchup and make for a hearty snack.

9. Hot Dogs and Burgers

Some street food trucks in Dubai serve American-style snacks like gourmet hot dogs and sliders. Head to Last Exit or Global Village during food festivals to find some of the most creative versions.