Dubai is a bustling cosmopolitan hub with a rich mix of cultures and a deep appreciation for Indian food and traditions. Whether you're an Indian tourist exploring Dubai's iconic skyline or a new resident settling into its vibrant communities, it's important to understand how food etiquette, laws, and culture intersect in this unique city.While Dubai offers a comforting abundance of Indian cuisine and groceries, it also follows Islamic principles that influence daily life especially when it comes to food, drink, and public behavior. This guide is your go to resource for navigating the dos and don'ts of food in Dubai as an Indian, ensuring a smooth, respectful, and enjoyable culinary experience.
FOOD DOS FOR INDIANS IN DUBAI
1. Respect Halal Practices
Only halal-certified meat is widely available.
Vegetarian and vegan diets are easily supported.
Always ask if a dish is halal if you're unsure, especially in mixed-cuisine eateries.
2. Explore Indian-Friendly Cuisine
Dubai has a thriving Indian food scene:
South Indian, North Indian, Gujarati, Jain, and even fusion restaurants.
Popular places: Bombay Brasserie, Indego by Vineet, Ravi Restaurant, etc.
You’ll find Indian dishes like biryani, dosas, chaat, and thalis in every part of the city.
3. Be Mindful During Ramadan
Do not eat or drink in public during fasting hours (dawn to sunset).
Many restaurants are closed during the day; some offer discreet dining areas for non-Muslims.
Eating inside your residence or hotel is allowed.
4. Buy Indian Groceries Locally
Indian supermarkets like Lulu Hypermarket, Al Adil, Choithrams, and K.M. Trading stock a wide variety of Indian groceries, spices, snacks, and fresh produce.
Indian brands of baby food, pickles, snacks, and atta are easily found.
5. Try Global Cuisine
Enjoy halal versions of Middle Eastern, Turkish, Iranian, and Lebanese dishes.
Don't miss shawarma, mandi, falafel, hummus, and grilled meats flavorful and budget-friendly.
6. Plan Smartly for Kids & Families
Restaurants are child-friendly, with kids’ menus and high chairs.
Carry dry snacks for outings (e.g., khakras, theplas, roasted nuts).
Indian sweets, biscuits, and Maggi noodles are available almost everywhere.
FOOD DON’TS FOR INDIANS IN DUBAI
1. Avoid Bringing or Eating Prohibited Items
Poppy seeds (khus khus) are strictly banned in UAE — even a trace can lead to legal trouble.
Pork is restricted to specific licensed stores and is not served in regular eateries.
Alcohol-infused foods, gelatin-based desserts, and certain sauces may contain haram ingredients — check labels.
2. Don’t Eat in Public During Ramadan
It is illegal and disrespectful to eat, drink, or chew gum in public during fasting hours.
Wait until sunset or use designated private areas.
3. Don’t Waste Food
Food waste is frowned upon, especially in buffets.
Some restaurants may even charge for excessive leftovers.
4. Avoid Aggressive or Loud Behavior in Restaurants
Be patient with staff. Any kind of public dispute can lead to legal repercussions.
Avoid bringing outside food into restaurants unless permitted.
5. Avoid Public Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol is only allowed in licensed restaurants, bars, and hotels.
Being drunk or carrying alcohol in public can lead to fines or jail time.
RELIGIOUS & CULTURAL SENSITIVITIES
Use your right hand when eating or offering food, especially in traditional settings.
Do not bring pork, poppy seeds, or alcohol-based items as gifts.
Respect invitations to Iftar during Ramadan — it's a gesture of cultural hospitality.
TRAVEL TIPS FOR INDIANS CARRYING FOOD TO DUBAI
Allowed (with care):
Dry snacks (thepla, khakhra, sev, etc.)
Sealed, labeled packaged items (snack packs, ready-to-eat meals)
Homemade items without banned ingredients (no ghee in bulk, no pickles with seeds)
Prohibited:
Poppy seeds, fennel seeds, mustard seeds
Homemade or unlabelled food items in containers
Raw non-vegetarian products without a permit
HEALTH-CONSCIOUS OPTIONS
Organic food stores (e.g., Organic Foods & Café, Carrefour Organic) offer gluten-free, sugar-free, and plant-based items.
Ayurvedic cafes and sattvic food outlets exist in areas like Karama, Al Barsha, and Jumeirah.
Vegan-friendly Indian restaurants are gaining popularity in Downtown Dubai and JLT.
QUICK LIST: POPULAR INDIAN FOOD SPOTS & STORES
Dubai welcomes Indian food lovers with open arms, offering a delightful variety of familiar tastes and new flavors. But to fully enjoy the experience and avoid unintended trouble it's essential to align with local customs and laws, especially concerning halal practices, public behavior, and banned substances. From finding the right grocery stores to enjoying a traditional Emirati meal, your journey as an Indian foodie in Dubai can be smooth, flavorful, and deeply respectful as long as you follow the guidance outlined here. Happy exploring and bon appétit.
