1. Shawarma

Let me just put it out here, no matter how well your local middle-eastern food outlet would make your shawarma; it just cannot be comparable with the authentic shawarmas found in the streets of UAE. It is a non-vegetarian delicacy which has sliced chicken, lamb or beef (depending on what you ask for) and is served by rolling in a soft flatbread. It is filled with fresh vegetables, onions and various sauces that make the shawarmas something out of this mortal world.

Where to find it: Al Mallah, Dubai
Price per plate: AED 6 - AED 10

2. Shish Tawouk Sandwich

One of the undiscovered gems of UAE that not a lot of tourists have discovered. It is extremely popular with the locals and can be easily found in any middle-eastern food joint. It is again a non-vegetarian dish with thinly sliced chicken pieces stuffed in the flatbreads. Filled with many spices, herbs, vegetables and pickles, the sandwich is a perfect combination of spicy and savoury.

Where to find it: Al Mallah, Dubai
Price per plate: AED 10 - AED 115

16. Knafeh

Knafeh is a popular dessert not only in UAE but in several other Middle Eastern places as well. It is a sticky pastry made of gooey sweet cheese that is baked in shredded phyllo dough before soaking it in a simple syrup.

Where to find it: Ibsais Sweets, Al Dhafrah- 15.75 AED per piece.