Dubai’s culinary scene is one of the most diverse in the world, and Middle Eastern cuisine takes center stage. Known for its warm spices, grilled meats, hearty stews, and generous hospitality, the food of this region is both comforting and complex. With options ranging from cozy home-style dining to modern fusion takes on classics, it’s easy to fall in love with this flavorful fare.
If all you’ve got on the cards for you is shawarma, hummus, kebabs, or something a bit more adventurous, then here are 5 of the best Middle Eastern restaurants in Dubai that you simply have to try in 2025. Also look for 5 Best Thai Restaurants in Dubai That Are Must Try!
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Sufret Maryam – Palestinian & Jordanian Excellence
The block’s latest star is Sufret Maryam, a creation of renowned chef Salam Dakkak. At Wasl 51, the restaurant serves up old-style Palestinian and Jordanian food with a twist. Mansaf old-style lamb and rice served with fragrant jameed sauce is an absolute must-order.
With dramatic interior, warm comfort, and food that’s homey, no surprise Sufret Maryam was named Dubai best Middle Eastern restaurants 2025.
Address: Wasl 51, Jumeirah 1 | Phone: 050 417 2272
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Alaya – Glamour Meets Tradition in DIFC
Alaya, thanks to celebrity chef Izu Ani, is where glamour meets tradition. Located within a previous art gallery, this trendy DIFC eatery dishes out food that blends Middle Eastern with Mediterranean to perfection. Lamb shank is deeply satisfying, and kunafa dessert rich but refreshing.
With its luxury vibe and creative menu, Alaya has become one of the top middle eastern restaurants in Dubai for both residents and visitors.
Address: Gate Village 4, DIFC | Website: alayarestaurant.com | Phone: 04 570 6289
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Orfali Bros Bistro – Fusion Middle Eastern Mastery
This Orfali brothers’ bistro is where innovative spirit meets venerable past in food. OB croquettes, éclairs of umami flavor, and the signature Bayildi Orfali come together in the plate bound by lavish courses: no meh mezze restaurant here.
Their innovative use of Middle Eastern spices in their cuisine places Orfali Bros as one of the most celebrated dining destinations, and as such, they claim the top spot for 2025 in the Time Out Awards again.
Address: Wasl 51, Jumeirah | Website: orfalibros.com | Phone: 04 259 2477
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Ninive – The Urban Majlis Experience
Ninive is not a restaurant, it’s an experience. Between Jumeirah Emirates Towers lies the green tiled oasis that’s more of a reminder of the soul of Dubai. Taking inspiration from Middle Eastern cuisine from Iran, Turkey, Iraq, and Morocco, the menu has mezze, tagines, and expertly cooked meats.
Dine beneath twinkling light or beneath their original tented arrangement. On a date night or quiet dinner, Ninive is the ultimate retreat, and deserving of place on any Dubai top ten for Middle Eastern restaurants.
Address: Jumeirah Emirates Towers | Website: ninive.ae | Phone: 04 326 6105
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Shabestan – A Taste of Iranian Tradition
More than 40 years ago, Radisson Blu Hotel’s Shabestan in Deira Creek has been offering traditional Persian food in cozy, intimate setting. Its succulent kebabs, luscious stews, and freshly baked bread transport you to an Iranian homestead.
With recipes passed down since ancient times and picturesque Creek views, this tested-and-trusted restaurant is one of Dubai’s finest Middle Eastern dining establishments for all the right reasons.
Address: Radisson Blu Hotel, Deira Creek | Phone: 04 205 7033
Last Bite
Native to the city or traveling there for the first time, it is easy to see why these are the best Middle Eastern restaurants in Dubai, which continue to be so popular in the city. From the classic to the new generation innovations, there is something unique and representative of the local culture and taste in each restaurant.
So the next time you dine out, ditch the default and indulge in one of Dubai’s finest Middle Eastern restaurants, you won’t regret it.
