Mark Wiens in Al Karama, Dubai: 5 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Dubai

Must-try foods in Dubai

• Machboos
  MachboosConsidered the national dish of the UAE, this fragrant rice meal is cooked with a potent blend of loomi (dried lime), cardamom, and saffron. In 2026, authentic versions featuring lamb or local fish are highly sought after at heritage spots like Al Fanar, which continues to be the benchmark for traditional Emirati hospitality.
• Dessert Chocolatier (Viral Dubai Chocolate)
  Dessert Chocolatier (Viral Dubai Chocolate)Remaining a global sensation through September 2026, this thick chocolate bar is stuffed with a crunchy mix of toasted kataifi pastry and pistachio cream. While many imitations exist, the original bars from Fix remain a top 'must-try' for visitors seeking the city's most famous viral export.
• Karak Chai
  Karak ChaiOften called the 'fuel of the city,' this strong, milky tea is boiled with cardamom, ginger, and sugar. In 2026, while artisanal versions are popping up in cafes, the iconic 1-dirham cups from street-side stalls in Karama and Satwa remain the most authentic way to experience Dubai’s everyday tea culture.
• Luqaimat
  LuqaimatThese small, deep-fried dough balls are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, traditionally drizzled with sticky date syrup and sprinkled with sesame seeds. They are the essential Emirati dessert, widely served at the newly popular Khaleeji-revival cafes like Logma.
• Temaki Handrolls
  Temaki HandrollsA major trend for 2026, specialized temaki counters like Kokoru and the recently opened Tezukuri have made high-quality, utensil-free Japanese handrolls a lunchtime staple. The focus is on ultra-crisp nori and premium fillings like bluefin tuna or Wagyu beef.
• Shawarma
  ShawarmaA permanent icon of Dubai’s street food scene. In late 2026, locals still flock to institutions like Al Mallah or the newly opened Bayroot Deli (launched September 2026) for slow-roasted chicken or lamb wrapped in warm khubz with pungent garlic toum and pickles.

Trip guide

• About Dubai
  About DubaiDubai is a city in the United Arab Emirates that transitioned from a small fishing and pearl-diving village in the 18th century into a global commercial hub. Its historical development is centered around Dubai Creek, which served as a primary port for merchants from Persia, India, and East Africa.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months from November to March, when temperatures are pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities and beach trips. During the summer (June to August), extreme heat and high humidity make outdoor sightseeing difficult, though this off-peak season offers significantly lower hotel rates and fewer crowds. For a balance of manageable weather and lower prices, consider the shoulder months of April, May, and October.
• Getting around
  Getting around Dubai

  • Air Travel via Dubai International Airport (DXB) As one of the world's busiest aviation hubs, DXB serves as the primary gateway with hundreds of direct international flights daily via Emirates and other major global carriers.
  • Dubai Metro This fully automated, driverless rail system offers a cost-effective way to navigate the city, connecting the airport directly to major hubs like Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and the Expo City site.
  • Taxis and Ride-Hailing (Uber/Careem) Taxis are abundant and regulated by the RTA, while the Careem app allows users to book private cars or standard RTA taxis, providing seamless door-to-door transport across the entire emirate.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Dress modestly in public areas like malls and government buildings by covering shoulders and knees to respect local cultural norms.
  • Download the Careem or S'hail apps to easily navigate the city via RTA taxis, private cars, or the extensive Dubai Metro system.
  • Check if service charges are included in your restaurant bill, as a 10 to 15 percent tip is customary for good service otherwise.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Dubai

  • Gymkhana Dubai: The world-renowned London Indian restaurant has just opened its first UAE location in DIFC (September 2026).
  • Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026: One of the world's largest travel trade shows is currently taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre (September 14–17, 2026).
• Visit Dubai↗
  Visit DubaiThe official tourism portal for Dubai provides a dedicated guide to the Al Karama neighborhood, highlighting its markets, dining, and cultural attractions.