Eat your way around Dubai

Long-time UAE residents and sisters Arva and Farida Ahmed know a thing or two about Dubai's hidden food gems. The duo behind Frying Pan Adventures take diners off the beaten path and through the culturally diverse side of Old Dubai on their rich food tours and foodie scavenger hunts. Here's a taste of what to expect. 

Middle Eastern Food Pilgrimage

Held during the cooler months, this four-hour Middle Eastern-themed walking tour takes you through the backstreets of Deira. Immerse yourself in the region's long-held food traditions, from watching your falafel being hand-shaped and cooked, to learning to detect various grades of saffron and the etiquette of coffee drinking. "One of the best ways to get a feel of a place and really digest the local culture is through walking the streets and discovering the local food," says Arva. Along the way, make sure you try everything from freshly baked Egyptian feteer to green hummus, Emirati cuisine and traditional Syrian pistachio ice-cream. 

Dubai Souks and Creekside Food Walk

Iconic Old Dubai and its historical neighbourhoods are the highlight of this heritage tour. Explore the twists and turns of the souks, including the spice souk and textile markets at the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, followed by a traditional abra ride down the iconic Dubai Creek. The walking tour includes the three pillars of old Dubai cuisines, where you can enjoy traditional Emirati, Indian and Iranian meals. An immersive experience, this tour teaches about the city's daily way of life and the historical importance of Dubai Creek for local residents.

Little India on a Plate

"Our food tours bring people into the lesser known areas of Old Dubai, beyond the touristy spots and the souks, which tend to be the only way people see the old part of town," says Arva. Starting at Meena Bazaar, one of Dubai's most underrated local dining spots, this tour through 'Little India' aims to dispel stereotypes associated with South Asian cuisine. It introduces diners to messy street snacks, the best Indian breads beyond naan and how to serve them with pickled chutneys, as well as where to find the best Punjabi chicken tikka in Dubai. With over ten different Indian food tastings across the Bur Dubai neighbourhood, you will gorge on the same dishes Dubai's Indian community enjoy every night.

Try flavours from all over the world, signature dishes at fine dining restaurants and discover some of Dubai's best food trucks.