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Shawarma Spots in Old Dubai

Ahmed Al Rashid June 05, 2026

My Shawarma Hunt

I'm obsessed with shawarma, and I've tried them all - from the fancy ones in Dubai Mall to the hole-in-the-wall spots in Deira. Look, you can't go wrong with a classic chicken shawarma from Automatic Restaurant on Al Rigga Street, it's only 10 AED! But, and I know this sounds weird, I think the real magic happens when you add a dash of garlic sauce.

Hidden Gems

So, I convinced my driver, Khalid, to take me on a shawarma tour of old Dubai on January 15th. We hit up some amazing spots, like Al Tawasol on Al Khaleej Road, where a massive shawarma will set you back just 15 AED. Honestly, it's the perfect snack after a long day of exploring the souks.

Street Food

Here's the thing: street food in Dubai is all about the experience. You'll find vendors on almost every corner, especially around the Al Fahidi Metro Station. I ordered a beef shawarma from a street cart on a side street off Baniyas Road, and it was love at first bite - crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, all for 12 AED. And, let me tell you, the views of the creek aren't bad either.

Restaurant Options

If you're looking for a more traditional dining experience, check out Al Mallah on Street 33 in Hor Al Anz. They serve up some of the city's best shawarma, and their falafel is a must-try. You'll pay a bit more, around 20 AED per person, but it's worth it for the quality and atmosphere. By the way, if you're planning a family day out, consider checking out the Yas Island waterpark or the Warner Bros. Family Fun Day.

Insider Tips

For a real adventure, skip the touristy areas and head to the Sharjah City Tour to explore the cultural capital. Now, back to shawarma - my top tip is to always ask for extra tahini sauce, trust me on this one. You can book a guided food tour through Roamigo Trips to discover even more hidden gems, and get ready to shawarma your way through old Dubai!

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Written by

Ahmed Al Rashid

Ahmed Al Rashid is a travel writer at Roamigo Trips, based in Dubai. With first-hand experience across UAE destinations — from desert safaris to coastal escapes — every guide is written from real adventures.

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