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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Written by
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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