Which Emirati desserts and drinks should visitors try in the UAE?

From messages by 4 participants in 1 source · Last activity: 6 days ago

TL;DR

Try luqaimat, crisp syrup-coated dough balls, with karak, a spiced milk tea that typically costs AED 1–2. Hotel dessert buffets can also be worth checking for pistachio pastries, tiramisu served in small glasses, and warm desserts with seasonal berries.

What the community said

For a local sweet snack, look for luqaimat: small crisp dough balls coated in syrup. It is a good choice for children and for visitors wanting an Emirati dessert rather than standard international pastries.

6 days ago Luqaimat

Pair luqaimat with karak, a spiced milk tea. It can be found for around AED 1–2 in the UAE, making it an inexpensive local drink to try.

6 days ago Karak — AED 1–2

At a hotel dessert buffet, a pistachio pastry can be a strong choice; it was described as tasty and not overly sweet.

21 days ago Pistachio pastry

Tiramisu served in a small glass received a positive review: it had few berries but a balanced flavor without excessive sweetness.

21 days ago Tiramisu in a small glass

If the dessert station has a warm item served near the tea with a sweet condensed-milk-like sauce, it is worth trying. Fillings varied by day, including strawberry, brownie, and berries.

21 days ago Warm dessert with berries or brownie