The UAE is well-known for its world-class culinary experiences, blending traditional Middle Eastern flavors with international influences from around the globe. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, embarking on a culinary road trip is one of the best ways to discover the country's diverse food scene. And what better way to explore the hidden gems and iconic food destinations than with the flexibility of a rental car from Selfdrive, a leading car rental platform in the UAE.
In this blog, we'll take you on a flavorful journey across the Emirates, from the vibrant street food of Dubai to the authentic Emirati cuisine in Ras Al Khaimah. Buckle up and get ready to taste the best of what the UAE has to offer!
Why Choose a Rental Car for Your Culinary Adventure?
The UAE boasts an excellent road network, making it easy to drive between emirates and explore off-the-beaten-path food destinations. Renting a car offers the freedom to create your own itinerary, stop at local eateries, and experience the rich culinary traditions of the UAE. Selfdrive provides an extensive fleet of vehicles, from compact cars perfect for solo travelers to spacious SUVs ideal for family trips.
With a rental car, you can visit multiple locations in a single day without the constraints of public transport schedules. Plus, Selfdrive’s convenient doorstep delivery and affordable pricing options make it even easier to get started on your culinary road trip.
1. Dubai: A Melting Pot of Global Flavors
Dubai is renowned for its diverse food scene, offering a mix of street food, fine dining, and fusion cuisine. With your rental car, you can travel across the city and indulge in a variety of culinary experiences.
Al Mallah
- Cuisine: Lebanese, Middle Eastern
- Location: 2nd of December Street, Al Satwa, Dubai
- Why Visit: Known for its shawarmas, grilled meats, and fresh juices, Al Mallah is a favorite for both locals and tourists. Their quick service and affordable prices make it a must-visit.
Bu Qtair
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Location: 4 D St, Jumeirah 2, Dubai
- Why Visit: Bu Qtair is an iconic seafood shack near the Jumeirah beach, famous for its simple, fresh, and flavorful fish fry and prawns. Don’t miss this authentic coastal experience.
Morimoto Dubai
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Location: Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Marasi Drive, Business Bay, Dubai
- Why Visit: For a high-end dining experience, Morimoto Dubai brings authentic Japanese flavors with a contemporary twist, offering sushi, tempura, and signature Wagyu dishes.
Traveling through Dubai is effortless with Selfdrive. Whether you’re looking for a compact car to zip through the city or a luxury ride for a fine dining experience, you’ll find a range of options to suit your needs. Check out Selfdrive’s rental options here.
Learn more about the official food safety guidelines in Dubai.
2. Sharjah: Authentic Emirati Cuisine and Seafood Delights
Sharjah’s rich culture and history are reflected in its traditional food, making it a fantastic destination for those wanting to try authentic Emirati dishes. This emirate is also famous for its seafood, thanks to its coastal location.
Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe
- Cuisine: Emirati
- Location: Al Majaz Waterfront, Sharjah
- Why Visit: Offering a nostalgic trip back to the 1960s, Al Fanar is perfect for those who want to experience authentic Emirati flavors in a beautifully traditional setting.
Sharjah Fish Market
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Location: Corniche St, Al Jubail, Sharjah
- Why Visit: For the freshest catch of the day, head to Sharjah’s Fish Market, where you can purchase seafood and have it cooked at nearby restaurants. It’s a true seafood lover’s paradise.
For a relaxed trip through Sharjah, Selfdrive offers an extensive range of affordable rental cars, ensuring you can explore every corner of the city at your leisure.
3. Ajman: The Small Emirate with Big Flavors
Ajman is known for its coastal eateries and traditional food markets. A culinary road trip through this small emirate will give you the opportunity to taste fresh, flavorful dishes with a laid-back vibe.
Seaview Restaurant
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Location: Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al Nuaimi Street, Ajman Corniche
- Why Visit: A favorite for seafood lovers, Seaview offers fresh seafood cooked to perfection, with stunning views of the sea.
Sultan Saray
- Cuisine: Turkish
- Location: Ajman Corniche, Ajman
- Why Visit: Sultan Saray offers a blend of Middle Eastern and Turkish flavors, with dishes like kebabs, hummus, and fresh bread served in a charming seaside setting.
Drive along the scenic Ajman Corniche with a rental car from Selfdrive, and enjoy the flexibility to stop and sample the local cuisine at your own pace.
4. Ras Al Khaimah: A Gateway to Traditional Dishes
Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) offers a more laid-back atmosphere and is ideal for those looking to dive into traditional Emirati food. With its mountainous landscape, RAK is perfect for a culinary road trip.
Emirati Restaurant
- Cuisine: Emirati
- Location: Al Jazirah Al Hamra, Ras Al Khaimah
- Why Visit: This local gem offers traditional Emirati meals like machboos and harees, served in a cozy and welcoming environment.
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RAK Fish Market
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Location: Al Nakheel, Ras Al Khaimah
- Why Visit: Much like its counterpart in Sharjah, the RAK Fish Market offers the freshest seafood, which you can have cooked at nearby restaurants.
Selfdrive offers a variety of rental cars suited for the long drive from Dubai to RAK. With comfortable SUVs like the Nissan X-Terra, your culinary adventure will be smooth and enjoyable. Explore Selfdrive’s fleet for your next trip.
5. Abu Dhabi: Michelin-Starred Dining and Local Favorites
Abu Dhabi is home to some of the UAE's best fine dining experiences, but it also offers many local favorites for those who want to explore authentic flavors. The emirate’s dining scene is varied, with Michelin-starred restaurants sitting next to traditional eateries.
Emirates Palace
- Cuisine: International
- Location: West Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi
- Why Visit: Emirates Palace is a luxurious destination that houses some of the best fine dining in the UAE. It offers a range of cuisines, from Mediterranean to Middle Eastern, and is perfect for a special night out.
Al Dhafra Restaurant
- Cuisine: Emirati
- Location: Mina Port, Abu Dhabi
- Why Visit: For a more traditional dining experience, Al Dhafra offers local dishes like thareed and balaleet in a beautiful waterfront setting.
Driving through Abu Dhabi’s wide roads in a Selfdrive-rented vehicle, such as the Toyota Land Cruiser, adds to the luxury of your culinary journey.
For more information on dining in Abu Dhabi, visit the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism.
6. Al Ain: A Farm-to-Table Culinary Experience
Known as the Garden City, Al Ain offers a refreshing change of pace with its lush farms and green landscapes. Al Ain’s culinary scene is heavily focused on farm-to-table experiences, making it a must-visit for those who enjoy fresh and organic food.
Al Ain Oasis Restaurant
- Cuisine: Emirati, Farm-to-Table
- Location: Al Ain Oasis, Al Mutawaa, Al Ain
- Why Visit: Located within the UNESCO World Heritage site, this restaurant offers traditional Emirati food made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Zaitounah
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern, Mediterranean
- Location: Al Ain Mall, Al Ain
- Why Visit: Zaitounah offers a wide range of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Perfect for a leisurely meal after exploring the city.
Sharjah’s Department of Culture offers insights into the city’s culinary traditions.
Ready to Hit the Road?
With a Selfdrive rental car, exploring the UAE’s culinary destinations becomes an effortless and enjoyable experience. From the bustling food scene in Dubai to the serene farm-to-table experiences in Al Ain, the UAE is a treasure trove of culinary delights just waiting to be discovered.
Start your culinary road trip today by visiting Selfdrive’s website and booking a car that fits your journey. Whether you're craving street food, traditional Emirati dishes, or fine dining, you’ll have the freedom to explore at your own pace and make lasting memories along the way.
Book your car today through Selfdrive UAE and make the most of your September in the UAE! Whether you're attending a festival, visiting a historic site, or simply exploring the countryside, having your own vehicle will ensure you don't miss a thing. Enjoy the freedom of the road and make this a September to remember.
Download the SelfDrive App or Visit Our Website to book your vehicle today. For assistance, call us at +971 45733500 our dedicated team will ensure a seamless rental experience.
Don't miss the opportunity to simplify your travel with an affordable, reliable vehicle. Rent Now and enjoy your journey with ease!
Happy road tripping, and bon appétit!
Note: Prices and offers are subject to change. Please verify details with the provider.