Spicy, garlicky or drenched in tahini: we ALL have a favourite shawarma type… but just like fingerprints, no two sandwiches are ever the same. In the pursuit of foodie discovery, we thought we’d give you a breakdown of the best shawarma in Dubai (and where to find them.) Sahteen and happy eating…
1. Al Hallab
Is it any surprise that the cuisine-obsessed Lebanese churn out more shawarmas than anyone else in the city? Boasting one of the city’s most elegant spots to tuck into the shawarma, Al Hallab serves up sandwiches that use age-old recipes designed in the back alleys of Beirut.
Price: Around AED 20
Location: Multiple locations but we’re loving Dubai Mall
insydo tip: Looking for dinner with a view? The Dubai Mall branch has outdoor seating that overlooks Burj Khalifa.
2. Zaroob
You’ve got to love Arabian hipster vibes when they translate to new food twists on old classics. Case in point: Arabian concept shop Zaroob. With its funky art-centric décor and homestyle vibes, they build sandwiches that are simple and super-sized. Pop in for a sharing platter and walk away smiling and smelling like fresh mint.
Price: Around AED 20
Location: Multiple locations but we’re fans of Dubai Marina
insydo tip: Zaroob Dubai also offer home catering for between 10 and 100 people. Simply drop them an email and you can be having an ‘Eat Street’ party in your own back garden.
3. Operation Falafel
This is Mission: Shawarma, if you choose to accept. Naaah, things aren’t that serious over at Operation Falafel, but one thing they don’t joke about is the freshness of the food. Expect big portions, trendy vibes and a shawarma selection that will always hit the spot.
Price: Around AED 12 for a Shawarma Sandwich
Location: Multiple locations
insydo tip: The best way to dine here is to order a range of dishes and share around the table.
4. Turkish Village
Any conversation about shawarma must include the original players in the game: Turkey’s doner kebabs. Served up at roadside cafes for centuries, you can find traditional Ottoman-influenced sandwiches right here in town at Turkish Village. Combining fresh pita bread, marinated lamb and a sauce mix that whispers tradition, they know the formula to tasty bites. Get the prices, location and more here.
Price: Around AED 25
Location: Jumeirah
insydo tip: For stunning beach views while feasting on delectable kebabs; you should head straight to the top floor.
5. Al Mallah
While there are lots of places experimenting with their shawarma recipes, sometimes less really is more. Al Mallah has lived by this mantra for decades, serving up the kind of street-food sandwich that has people flocking to Bur Dubai at all hours of the night. If you’ve yet to make a visit, you can’t call yourself a true Dubai foodie.
Price: Around AED 7 for a Chicken Shawarma
Location: Multiple locations
insydo tip: Only the Al Mamzar and Al Twar branches offer home delivery to their local areas.
6. BouBouffe
Bringing an enticing taste of Beirut to Dubai, BouBouffe offers traditional Lebanese food in a French bistro-style setting. Famous for its finger-licking shawarmas, the family-friendly restaurant boasts a dedicated sandwich station, dessert counter and juice bar.
Price: Around AED 18
Location: Aspin Tower, Trade Centre
insydo tip: Dessert lover? We’d recommend going for the Halawet el Jibn, a cheese-based sweet covered in a sugar syrup.
Still hungry? Whether you’re on the hunt for burger joints or sushi experiences, click here to find the city’s best.