Navigate Dubai's global food scene with confidence. From Deira cafeterias to DIFC fine dining, here is the calorie breakdown of 15 essential dishes.
Dubai is a global culinary capital where traditional Emirati flavors meet international fine dining and street food favorites. For those tracking their health goals while living in this vibrant city, navigating the diverse food scene can be a challenge. Whether you are ordering from a local cafeteria in Deira or dining at a trendy spot in DIFC, understanding the caloric impact of your favorite dishes is key to maintaining balance.
Here is a comprehensive guide to the calorie counts of 15 essential dishes for the Dubai audience.
Middle Eastern cuisine is often perceived as healthy, but hidden fats from oils, tahini, and nuts can add up quickly.
| Food Item | Unit | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lamb Ouzi | 1 Plate | 850 | 45g | 40g | 75g |
| Chicken Mandi | 1 Plate | 720 | 38g | 32g | 68g |
| Khoubz | 1 Piece | 190 | 6g | 1g | 38g |
| Shish Tawook | 100g | 150 | 24g | 5g | 1g |
| Moutabal | 100g | 130 | 2g | 10g | 8g |
• Lamb Ouzi: A staple at Dubai gatherings, this slow-cooked lamb dish is calorie-dense due to the nuts and ghee-infused rice.
• Chicken Mandi: Popular in cafeterias across the city, the skin-on chicken and seasoned rice make it a heavy yet satisfying meal.
If you are looking for lighter options in Dubai’s many Lebanese or Syrian restaurants, these sides are excellent choices.
| Food Item | Unit | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tabbouleh Salad | 100g | 120 | 2g | 8g | 10g |
| Fattoush | 100g | 95 | 2g | 5g | 11g |
| Lentil Soup | 1 Bowl | 180 | 12g | 4g | 24g |
| Grilled Sea Bream | 150g | 210 | 28g | 9g | 0g |
| Hummus | 2 Tbsp | 70 | 2g | 5g | 4g |
Tip: When ordering Fattoush, ask for the fried bread on the side to significantly reduce the calorie count.
From late-night snacks to celebratory desserts, these are the items that often catch us off guard.
| Food Item | Unit | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Shawarma | 1 Wrap | 450 | 25g | 22g | 38g |
| Falafel Sandwich | 1 Wrap | 520 | 14g | 24g | 62g |
| Karak Chai | Small Cup | 120 | 2g | 6g | 15g |
| Kunafa | 100g | 380 | 6g | 20g | 45g |
| Luqaimat | 3 Pieces | 180 | 2g | 8g | 25g |
• Chicken Shawarma: The garlic sauce (toum) is the primary source of hidden calories here; opting for less sauce can save you nearly 100 calories.
• Karak Chai: This beloved local tea is often made with condensed milk and plenty of sugar, making it more of a treat than a standard beverage.
When using delivery apps in Dubai, many restaurants now provide nutritional labels. Look for the "Healthy" or "Calorie-Counted" filters. By incorporating these estimates into your daily routine, you can enjoy the rich culinary heritage of the UAE while staying on track with your fitness journey.