Shawarma is more than just a meal in Dubai; it’s an essential part of the city’s street food culture. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, the savory aroma of meat roasting on a spit, seasoned with Middle Eastern spices, is an irresistible treat. Dubai, a culinary hub with influences from across the globe, is home to numerous spots that offer this beloved delicacy. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 places for the best shawarma in Dubai, where you can savor flavors that capture the essence of the city’s food scene.
What Makes a Great Shawarma?
A truly great shawarma is the perfect harmony of succulent, well-marinated meat, tangy sauces, and freshly baked bread. Here are a few key elements that distinguish an unforgettable shawarma:
- Quality Meat: Typically chicken or beef, marinated with a blend of Middle Eastern spices for hours to infuse it with flavor.
- Fresh Ingredients: A mix of vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and tangy pickles adds crunch and contrast.
- Signature Sauces: Garlic sauce and tahini are commonly slathered inside to complement the meat’s flavors.
- Perfectly Toasted Bread: Whether it’s pita, flatbread, or saj, the bread plays a crucial role in holding everything together.
Top 10 Best Shawarma in Dubai
1. Al Mallah
Review: Al Mallah has been a cornerstone of Dubai’s shawarma scene for years, famous for its consistency, quality, and unbeatable prices. Their shawarmas, available in both chicken and beef, are wrapped in fluffy pita bread and drizzled generously with their renowned garlic sauce.
Customers flock to Al Mallah for its street food charm and quick service, making it an ideal stop for anyone craving a satisfying shawarma. Not only does the restaurant offer shawarma, but it’s also known for its fresh juices and Lebanese meze, rounding out the full Arabic street food experience. Whether you dine in or grab a quick takeaway, Al Mallah delivers every time.
- Price Range: AED 10 – 20
- Rating: ★★★★★ (4.7/5)
- Contact: 600 522 521
- Website: Al Mallah
- Location: Al Dhiyafa Rd – Al Hudaiba – Dubai
- Timing: Saturday – Thursday: 7AM – 2AM, Friday: 9AM – 2AM
2. Al Safadi
Review: Al Safadi is synonymous with authentic Lebanese cuisine, and their shawarma is no exception. The restaurant serves a perfectly balanced shawarma wrap, where each bite offers a blend of succulent, marinated meat, crisp vegetables, and the richness of their famous garlic sauce.
This upscale eatery caters to both casual diners and those looking for a more refined dining experience. With a wide selection of Lebanese dishes on their menu, shawarma remains a top choice for those wanting to indulge in a classic Middle Eastern street food dish. The restaurant’s popularity is a testament to its consistent quality and excellent service, with several branches across the city.
- Price Range: AED 15 – 30
- Rating: ★★★★★ (4.6/5)
- Contact: 600500601
- Website: Al Safadi
- Location: 127 Sheikh Zayed Rd – Trade Centre – DIFC – Dubai
3. Al Beiruti – SZR
Review: Located on Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Beiruti combines traditional Lebanese street food with modern dining aesthetics. Known for its rich and flavorful shawarmas, Al Beiruti’s chicken and beef shawarma wraps are a hit among locals and tourists alike.
The meat is perfectly grilled, tender, and complemented by a delicious garlic or tahini sauce, all wrapped in freshly baked saj or pita bread. The chic atmosphere makes it a perfect place for both casual lunches and family dinners. Aside from shawarma, Al Beiruti offers a wide range of mezze and grills, making it a must-visit for lovers of Lebanese cuisine.
- Price Range: AED 20 – 40
- Rating: ★★★★★ (4.5/5)
- Contact: +971 4 320 0043
- Website: Al Beiruti
- Location: Umm Al Sheif, SZR, Dubai, UAE
4. Allo Beirut – Hessa Street
Review: Known for its authentic Lebanese street food, Allo Beirut on Hessa Street is a local favorite, especially for shawarma lovers. The shawarma here is packed with flavor, with the meat marinated to perfection and cooked on traditional vertical rotisseries. The freshly baked saj bread wraps around the juicy chicken or beef shawarma, accompanied by crispy fries and garlic sauce.
The cozy yet casual dining experience at Allo Beirut makes it a great spot for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner with friends. The restaurant also offers other Lebanese delights, from manakeesh to mezze, but shawarma remains its star attraction.
- Price Range: AED 15 – 25
- Rating: ★★★★★ (4.4/5)
- Contact: 86234788
- Website: Allo Beirut
- Location: Hessa St – Al Barsha – Dubai
5. Shawarma Jeddo
Review: Shawarma Jeddo brings the rich flavors of Lebanese street food straight to your plate. Known for its juicy and well-seasoned shawarma, this spot offers a no-frills approach to one of Dubai’s favorite street foods. The shawarma here is served in both chicken and beef options, wrapped in soft saj or pita bread with pickles, fries, and garlic sauce.
The casual setting makes it a great place for grabbing a quick and tasty bite with friends or family. Shawarma Jeddo has built a strong reputation for serving shawarma that’s full of flavor without compromising on affordability.
- Price Range: AED 12 – 20
- Rating: ★★★★★ (4.3/5)
- Contact: 0502135504
- Location: 49CF+M6G – Dubai Silicon Oasis – Industrial Area – Dubai
6. My Shawarma – Barsha
Review: Tucked away in the heart of Al Barsha, My Shawarma offers an authentic and flavorful shawarma experience. The wraps here are filled with tender, marinated meats and freshly chopped vegetables, all served with a variety of house-made sauces that enhance the overall flavor.
The shawarmas are generously portioned, making My Shawarma a popular choice for a filling and affordable meal. This spot is a local favorite for those looking for a quick but satisfying shawarma fix in a casual setting.
- Price Range: AED 10 – 18
- Rating: ★★★★★ (4.5/5)
- Contact: 0527733149
- Location: Emerald Court Building – Al Barsha 1 – Dubai
7. Barbar – Hessa Street
Review: Originally a famous Lebanese street food chain, Barbar has brought its delicious offerings to Dubai, and the Hessa Street branch is quickly becoming a hotspot for shawarma lovers.
Known for their large portions and flavorful meat, Barbar’s shawarmas are packed with juicy chicken or beef, pickles, and garlic sauce, all wrapped in fresh bread. The no-nonsense approach to fast food combined with excellent taste makes Barbar a great choice for those looking for an authentic Lebanese shawarma experience.
- Price Range: AED 15 – 25
- Rating: ★★★★★ (4.4/5)
- Contact: +971522449259
- Website: Barbar
- Location: Hessa Street, Dubai
- Timing: 24/7
8. Halla Shawarma – Al Twar Square
Review: Nestled in Al Twar Square, Halla Shawarma is a hidden gem that offers some of the best shawarma in the city. Known for its traditional approach, Halla’s shawarma is packed with tender meat, fresh vegetables, and served with crispy fries.
The use of authentic Lebanese spices elevates the flavors, making each bite a memorable one. This spot is great for a quick, casual meal and is popular among those who appreciate the art of classic shawarma.
- Price Range: AED 10 – 20
- Rating: ★★★★★ (4.4/5)
- Contact: 600525553
- Location: 104 Al Nahda St – Al Twar – Al Twar 1 – Dubai
9. Laffah Restaurant
Review: Laffah Restaurant is well-known for its generously filled shawarma wraps and authentic Lebanese flavors. Offering both chicken and beef options, their shawarmas are prepared with perfectly marinated meat that’s juicy and tender, wrapped in warm saj or pita bread. What sets Laffah apart is their use of high-quality ingredients and the balance of flavors, from the tangy garlic sauce to the crisp pickles.
Their portions are large, making it a great value-for-money option. The restaurant is often packed with locals, highlighting its popularity among shawarma enthusiasts.
- Price Range: AED 12 – 25
- Rating: ★★★★★ (4.3/5)
- Contact: 042717771
- Website: Laffah Restaurant
- Location: Karama – Dubai
10. Mama’esh – The Meadows Village
Review: Mama’esh is a Palestinian-inspired restaurant that has quickly become a favorite for those seeking traditional Middle Eastern flavors in a modern setting. Their shawarmas are prepared with organic ingredients, and the meat is cooked to perfection, offering an authentic yet unique take on this beloved dish.
Wrapped in freshly baked saj bread, each shawarma is filled with tender meat, fresh herbs, and their signature sauces, ensuring a burst of flavor in every bite. The peaceful setting at The Meadows Village makes this restaurant a great place for a quiet meal away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
- Price Range: AED 20 – 30
- Rating: ★★★★★ (4.6/5)
- Contact: 600548287
- Website: Mama’esh
- Location: Ground Floor, The Meadows Village Mall, next to Waitrose Supermarket – Springs 1 – Dubai
The Ingredients: What Goes Into Dubai’s Best Shawarma?
Every bite of shawarma in Dubai is an explosion of flavor, thanks to the fresh ingredients and carefully prepared meats. Key ingredients include:
- Marinated Chicken or Beef: Tender meat seasoned with a variety of Middle Eastern spices.
- Garlic Sauce: Adds creaminess and tang to the wrap.
- Pickles and Vegetables: Provides a crunch and balances the richness of the meat.
- Warm Bread: Typically pita or saj, soft and chewy to hold everything together.
Shawarma as a Cultural Icon in Dubai
Shawarma has become a cultural staple in Dubai, bridging the gap between street food and fine dining. With its origins in the Middle East, the dish has been embraced by locals and expats alike, and its influence can be seen everywhere, from humble food trucks to upscale restaurants. Shawarma represents Dubai’s diversity and its vibrant food scene.
How to Find the Best Shawarma Near Me in Dubai?
With so many excellent shawarma options available, it’s easy to find a spot nearby. Using food delivery apps like Zomato and Deliveroo, you can get your shawarma fix at the touch of a button. Alternatively, you can explore Dubai’s food streets, such as Satwa or Al Rigga, where some of the most famous shawarma joints are located.
Conclusion
Dubai’s shawarma scene is diverse, with each spot offering its unique take on this Middle Eastern favorite. Whether you prefer your shawarma from a local cafeteria or a fine dining restaurant, there’s no shortage of flavors to explore in Dubai. So, head out and start your shawarma adventure today!
What Are the FAQs About the Best shawarma in Dubai?
What is the average price of shawarma in Dubai?
Shawarma in Dubai typically ranges from AED 5 to AED 20, depending on the restaurant and portion size.
What’s the difference between chicken and beef shawarma?
Chicken shawarma is lighter and often paired with garlic sauce, while beef shawarma is richer, often served with tahini sauce.
Can I get shawarma delivered in Dubai?
Yes, most shawarma spots offer delivery through apps like Zomato, Deliveroo, and Talabat.
Which shawarma place is best for a late-night snack in Dubai?
Antar Cafeteria is a popular choice for late-night shawarma, open till 2 AM.
What’s the most affordable shawarma spot in Dubai?
Shawarma Grill Cafeteria offers shawarma for as low as AED 5.
What makes Lebanese shawarma different from other shawarmas?
Lebanese shawarma typically includes more garlic, pickles, and is often served with a creamy garlic sauce.
Can vegetarians enjoy shawarma in Dubai?
Yes, many places offer falafel wraps as a vegetarian alternative to shawarma.