Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

1. Harees (Hot Meal)

A traditional dish made from crushed wheat and meat, typically served during Eid Al Adha. Savor its hearty flavor at Al Jazira Ballrooms & Centre.

Authentic Experience: Taste a dish steeped in Arabian culture and history.
Seasonal Specialty: Harees is traditionally prepared during Eid Al Adha, making it a unique culinary event.
Social Gathering: Sharing Harees during family gatherings or community feasts fosters unity and camaraderie.

A fragrant rice dish cooked with fish, chicken or meat and spices. Experience the tantalizing flavors at Al Bahou restaurant.

Variety of Ingredients: Savor different versions of Machboos using various meats, seafood, and regional spices.
Cultural Influence: Machboos showcases the richness of Arabian culinary traditions.
Festive Celebration: Machboos is often served during special occasions, adding to its appeal.

Slow-cooked goat dish served with rice and a variety of sides. Taste this mouthwatering treat at Al Bustan Centre & Residence.

Cooking Technique: Khuzi's unique slow-cooking process results in tender and flavorful meat.
Family Recipe: Each Khuzi is prepared with a family's cherished recipe, adding to its personal touch.
Shared Experience: Sharing Khuzi around the table fosters a sense of community and togetherness.

Golden-brown fried dough dumplings soaked in sweet syrup. Enjoy this delightful dessert at Al Majaz Waterfront.

Traditional Snack: Luqaimat have been a beloved snack in the UAE for centuries.
Seasonal Variations: Luqaimat can be enjoyed with different fillings and toppings, such as nuts or rose water.
Festive Celebration: Luqaimat are often served during Ramadan, adding to their cultural significance.

Thinly sliced meat wrapped in a flatbread with various condiments. Try this popular street food at Al Qasba.

Versatile Ingredients: Shawarmas can be made with different meats, such as chicken, beef, or lamb.
Convenient Meal: Shawarma wraps offer a quick and tasty meal on the go.
Cultural Fusion: This Middle Eastern dish has been adapted by many cultures, showcasing its popularity and versatility.

A flavorful fried kebab made from minced meat mixed with spices and onions. Try this tasty treat at Al Qasba.

Tasty Snack: Shaami Kebabs make for a delicious and filling snack.
Spicy Variations: Experiment with different spice levels to suit your taste buds.
Fusion Cuisine: The shaami kebab combines Middle Eastern and Indian culinary influences.

Delicately flavored fish cooked with onions, tomatoes, and spices. Savor this dish at Al Khan Beach.

Seafood Specialty: Madrooba highlights the region's fresh seafood offerings.
Family-Style Dish: Madrooba is traditionally served family-style, encouraging sharing and bonding.
Healthy Option: Fish provides essential nutrients while being a lighter alternative to meat-based dishes.

A sweet rice pudding made with vermicelli noodles and topped with an egg. Enjoy this unique dessert at Al Qasba.

Breakfast Dessert: Balaleet is typically enjoyed for breakfast, adding a touch of sweetness to the day.
Cultural Fusion: The balaleet's unique combination of sweet and savory flavors reflects the culinary influences in the region.
Comfort Food: Balaleet provides a warm, comforting end to a meal.

Fluffy, traditional Arabic bread served with various dishes. Taste the authentic flavors at Al Qasba.

Cultural Symbol: Khabooz plays a significant role in Arabian cuisine and hospitality.
Versatile Accompaniment: Khabooz can be paired with an array of dishes, making it a staple in many meals.
Freshness: Khabooz is best enjoyed freshly baked and warm.

Tender squid filled with rice, spices, and vegetables. Taste this unique dish at Al Khan Beach.

Seafood Specialty: Salooqiya highlights the region's fresh seafood offerings.
Creative Preparation: The stuffed squid is a culinary marvel, showcasing inventiveness in cooking techniques.
Flavorful Experience: Salooqiya offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

Strong, aromatic black tea brewed with spices such as cardamom and saffron. Sip on this refreshing beverage at Al Qasba.

Cultural Drink: Karak Tea is deeply rooted in Arabian tradition and hospitality.
Street-Side Sipper: Enjoy karak tea from street vendors or casual cafes.
Energizing Beverage: Karak Tea provides an invigorating pick-me-up, perfect for a hot day.

A Syrian version of the traditional dish harees made with cracked wheat and meat. Savor this unique twist at Al Qasba.

Cultural Exchange: Al Harees Al Shami showcases the culinary influences from neighboring countries.
Authentic Experience: Try this dish to immerse yourself in the diverse food culture of Sharjah.
Seasonal Specialty: Al Harees Al Shami is typically prepared during Eid Al Adha, making it a unique culinary event.

A triangular pastry filled with spiced meat or vegetables. Savor this popular snack at Al Qasba.

Traditional Snack: Samboosas have been a beloved snack in the region for centuries.
Portable Treat: Samboosas are perfect for on-the-go snacking and make a great travel companion.
Spicy Variations: Experiment with different spice levels to suit your taste buds.

A crispy, sweet pastry filled with cheese and drenched in sugary syrup. Satisfy your sweet tooth at Al Qasba.

Delicious Dessert: Kunafa offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors.
Regional Variations: Kunafas can be found in various forms throughout the region, each with its unique touch.
Cultural Symbol: Kunafa plays a significant role in Arabian cuisine and hospitality.

A creamy dip made from grilled eggplant, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. Savor this flavorful spread at Al Qasba.

Authentic Experience: Al Moutabbal is a traditional Arabian dip that brings authentic Middle Eastern flavors to your palate.
Versatile Appetizer: Al Moutabbal can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or used as a spread for other dishes.
Healthy Option: Eggplant is a nutritious and flavorful ingredient, making Al Moutabbal a healthy choice.