Welcome to Dubai — a city where brunch is basically a lifestyle, and Middle Eastern brunches are the main character.
If you think brunch is just eggs-on-toast with a latte on the side, Dubai is here to politely (and deliciously) correct you. This city’s Middle Eastern brunch scene is a warm, spice-filled hug from Lebanon, Syria, Iran, the Emirates, Jordan, Palestine — and sometimes all of them at once.
Think huge trays of mezze, bubbling shakshuka, freshly baked manakish, golden falafel, creamy labneh, and grills that smell like happiness itself.
This is your ultimate, student-friendly, wallet-friendly, culture-packed guide to the best Middle Eastern brunches in Dubai — where to eat, what to order, when to go, how to avoid mistakes beginners make, and how to brunch like a smart Dubai resident.
TL;DR – Middle Eastern Brunches in Dubai
- Dubai’s Middle Eastern brunches are all about big flavours, bigger sharing trays and warm, homely vibes – from Emirati cafés to Lebanese, Palestinian and Persian spots.
- Must-try dishes include shakshuka, manakish, falafel, labneh, fresh Arabic bread, kunafa and Umm Ali, with plenty of vegetarian and halal-friendly options.
- Old Dubai (Al Fahidi, Deira, Karama) is your go-to for authentic, budget-friendly brunches, while Jumeirah, City Walk and D3 offer trendier fusion-style venues.
- Go early on weekends or brunch on weekdays for quieter vibes, share trays with friends to save money, and use our linked guides to mocktail, kids and organic brunches to plan your perfect Dubai weekend.
Why Middle Eastern Brunch in Dubai Is a Whole Vibe
The experience hits differently here. Why?
- Comfort food + culture in one sitting
- Affordable options (students, rejoice!)
- Authenticity everywhere
- Portions so generous you’ll question your life choices
- Instagram-worthy settings in charming old villas or chic modern cafés
WOW-Emirates Expert Tip: Most Middle Eastern cafés offer breakfast till 3 PM — perfect for late sleepers who “accidentally” wake up at noon.
A Quick Taste of What You’re In For
Here’s the brunch breakdown every foodie needs:
Traditional Favourites
- Shakshuka
- Falafel
- Labneh
- Hummus
- Fresh Arabic bread
- Foul medames
- Za’atar manakish
- Kunafa & Umm Ali
Regional Specials You MUST Try
- Palestinian musakhan rolls
- Emirati balaleet
- Persian haleem
- Jordanian mansaf-inspired breakfast mezze
- Syrian muhammara
Modern Fusion Vibes
- Saffron French toast
- Iced karak tea
- Shakshuka tacos
- Date pancakes
If you want to explore more global flavours beyond Middle Eastern cuisine, check out Dubai’s most indulgent Italian brunches, another weekend favourite across the city.
Top Middle Eastern Brunch Spots in Dubai (2025 Edition)
A perfect mix of traditional, modern, budget-friendly, and student-approved.
1. Arabian Tea House – Jumeirah & Al Fahidi
Traditional, picturesque & loved by residents and tourists
Walk into Arabian Tea House and suddenly it feels like you’ve entered a postcard from old UAE — white rattan chairs, turquoise décor, and the smell of freshly baked khubz.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/uvZE2UDxCWVdVJK49
Why it’s perfect for students
- Affordable breakfast sets
- HUGE portions
- Great for Instagram
- Open from early morning till late afternoon
Must-Try
- Emirati tray
- Regag bread with cheese & honey
- Freshly baked Arabic bread
2. Mama’esh – Palestinian Soul Food
Comfort food that tastes like home — even if you’re not Palestinian.
Their trays come out steaming, packed, and ready for sharing. The vibe? Warm, casual, and often packed with locals who know where the good stuff is.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/TaS385guyj8ANb6S9
Must-Try
- Musakhan chicken rolls
- Cheese & za’atar fatayer
- Karak with saffron
WOW-Emirates Expert Tip: Go to Mama’esh before 11 AM — after that, the queue might look like a sneaker drop.
3. Al Fanar Restaurant & Café – Emirati Heritage
For a dose of culture with your carbs.
Al Fanar feels like dining inside a heritage village — old boats, lanterns, Emirati décor, and service that feels like you’re visiting family.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rUQau6kRijspGy4U9
Must-Try
- Balaleet (sweet vermicelli + egg omelette)
- Khameer bread
- Emirati pancakes
4. Three by Eva – Jordanian & Palestinian Brunch
Tucked inside a beautiful villa — bright, airy, homely, and extremely flavourful.
Loction: https://maps.app.goo.gl/TsDANYz2UtoQmzzk6
Must-Try
- Feta brûlée
- Hand-rolled vine leaves
- Lamb + spices + lemon breakfast rolls
This is the spot foodies whisper about.
5. Zaroob – Lebanese Street Food Brunch
Fast, fun, flavourful — perfect for broke-but-hungry students.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/5pxqSEBAuDQMV9ia8
Must-Try
- Scrambled eggs & za’atar
- Akkawi cheese manakish
- Lebanese tea
Table: Quick Overview of Dubai’s Best Middle Eastern Brunch Spots
| Restaurant | Best For | Price Range | Student Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arabian Tea House | Traditional Emirati vibes | AED 55–85 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Mama’esh | Palestinian comfort food | AED 35–60 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Al Fanar | Cultural experience | AED 60–90 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Three by Eva | Jordanian/Palestinian flavours | AED 80–120 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Zaroob | Budget-friendly Lebanese street food | AED 30–55 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Essential Middle Eastern Brunch Dishes You NEED to Try in Dubai
Let’s break down the flavours:
1. The Sharing Trays
The heart of an Arabic brunch.
- Hummus (the OG)
- Labneh
- Olives
- Khubz (fresh bread)
- Foul
- Falafel
WOW-Emirates Expert Tip: Arabic breakfast trays are ALWAYS big. Take friends. Trust me.
2. Dubai’s Unique Regional Specials
Dubai’s mix of expats means you get the best of everywhere:
Persian
- Haleem
- Saffron omelette
Jordanian & Palestinian
- Galayet bandora
- Fatayer + tea
Emirati
- Balaleet
- Chbaab pancakes
3. Modern Fusion Takes You’ll Love
Dubai chefs don’t just preserve tradition — they remix it.
Think:
✨ Saffron French toast
✨ Shakshuka fries
✨ Iced karak latte
✨ Pistachio manakish
WOW-Emirates Expert Tip: Fusion brunches are busiest around 11 AM — book ahead.
Vegetarian & Vegan Friendly (Middle Eastern Cuisine = Veg Heaven)
Middle Eastern food was accidentally vegan before veganism became cool.
Plants rule here:
- Hummus
- Falafel
- Muhammara
- Tabbouleh
- Baba ganoush
- Stuffed vine leaves
- Fattoush
Most Arabic brunch spots offer full vegetarian trays.
If you’re also looking for clean, wholesome brunches perfect for families, don’t miss our guide to the best organic family-friendly brunch venues in Dubai packed with healthy plates and happy-kid vibes.
Best Areas in Dubai for Middle Eastern Brunch
Old Dubai (Most authentic)
- Al Fahidi
- Deira
- Karama
Trendy & Modern
- City Walk
- Jumeirah 1
- Dubai Design District (D3)
Student-friendly zones
- Al Karama
- Dubai Silicon Oasis
- Al Barsha
When to Go: Best Timings for Brunch
| Day | Best Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Weekdays | 9 AM – 12 PM | Quiet, best for photos |
| Saturday | 12 PM – 3 PM | Peak Dubai weekend brunch |
| Friday | 9 AM – 1 PM | Best for traditional Arabic breakfast |
| Sunday | 10 AM – 2 PM | Lively, popular with tourists |
WOW-Emirates Expert Tip: Go before 10:30 AM to avoid long queues in popular places.
How to Choose the Best Middle Eastern Brunch in Dubai
✔ Authenticity
Traditional prep, homemade bread, fresh ingredients.
✔ Value
Generous portions (a VERY Middle Eastern thing).
✔ Atmosphere
Cozy, bright, traditional, or modern.
✔ Dietary Options
Vegetarian & halal brunch Dubai options dominate most menus.
For halal-friendly weekends, you can also explore Dubai’s top non-alcoholic mocktail brunches, all designed for families and culture-conscious diners.
✔ Portion Size
Rule of thumb: Middle Eastern food doesn’t do “small.”
Best Quote to Describe Middle Eastern Brunch in Dubai
“It’s not a meal. It’s a warm invitation to sit, slow down and share a table the Middle Eastern way.”
Planning Tips for the Perfect Brunch Day
✔ Make reservations for weekends
Especially Arabian Tea House, Three by Eva, and Al Fanar.
✔ Dress casual but modest
Traditional places appreciate respectful clothing.
✔ Bring friends
Sharing-style dishes = more variety + lower cost.
✔ Combine brunch with sightseeing
Perfect pairs:
- Al Fahidi + Arabian Tea House
- La Mer + Sikka Café
- D3 + Mum’s Table
Budget Breakdown: What You’ll Spend
| Style | Avg. Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Street-style Lebanese | AED 30–55 | Cheapest + flavour-packed |
| Traditional Emirati cafés | AED 55–90 | Best cultural experience |
| Modern fusion brunches | AED 80–150 | Trendy, Instagrammable |
| Hotel brunches | AED 250–450 | Luxury experience |
WOW-Emirates Expert Tip: Share platters = save money + taste EVERYTHING.
Final Bite: Why Middle Eastern Brunches Are a Must-Do
Dubai’s Middle Eastern brunches are not just meals — they’re little adventures packed with culture, nostalgia, warmth, spices, and carbs (glorious, glorious carbs).
Whether you’re a student, a foodie, a culture lover, or a brunch newbie:
you’ll walk in hungry and leave happy.
Always.
And if you’re planning your next family-friendly foodie adventure, check out the best kids menus in Dubai — a great follow-up read when little ones are joining the brunch plans.
Middle Eastern Brunches in Dubai Frequently Asked Questions:
Dubai’s Middle Eastern brunches mix authentic Levantine, Emirati, Persian, and regional flavours with warm hospitality and MASSIVE portions. It’s the perfect blend of culture + comfort + weekend fun.
For traditional vibes go to Arabian Tea House, Al Fanar, Mama’esh, Zaroob, and Three by Eva. These spots use classic recipes, fresh bread, and regional spices that taste like home-cooked meals.
YES! Street-style places like Zaroob, Mama’esh, and cafés in Deira/Karama offer full brunch trays between AED 25–55 — perfect for students and anyone saving dirhams.
Start with hummus, falafel, labneh, foul, shakshuka, manakish, fresh Arabic bread, and end with kunafa or Umm Ali. For adventurous eaters: try musakhan rolls, haleem, regag bread, and feta brûlée.
Absolutely! Middle Eastern cuisine naturally includes plenty of veg-friendly staples — hummus, falafel, muhammara, baba ganoush, vine leaves, tabbouleh, fattoush, and plant-based manakish.
Weekdays: 9 AM–12 PM (quiet + best for photos).
Weekends: 12 PM–3 PM is peak brunch energy — book early to avoid queues.
Traditional cafés often run on walk-ins, but weekend brunch at popular spots (Arabian Tea House, Three by Eva, Al Fanar) usually needs an advance booking, especially for big groups.
For authentic flavours: Al Fahidi, Deira, Karama.
For modern brunch vibes: City Walk, Jumeirah 1, Dubai Design District.
For students: Dubai Silicon Oasis, Al Barsha.
Yes — almost all Middle Eastern brunch spots in Dubai serve 100% halal food, making it a popular choice for families and students looking for halal brunch Dubai options.
Definitely! Pair Arabian Tea House with Al Fahidi Historical District, Al Fanar with Festival City, Sikka with La Mer, or Mum’s Table with Dubai Design District murals.
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