The long weekend for the highly anticipated Islamic festival Eid Al Adha is just around the corner.
UAE residents are set to get one day off for Arafah day and three days off for the Feast of Sacrifice.
The holidays will be spent celebrating with family and friends. This can also be a time to go around the UAE and get reacquainted with local heritage and culture. What better way to celebrate the occasion than enjoying local cuisine while sharing moments with loved ones?
Looking for an Emirati dining experience that will transport you from a modern chic atmosphere to the 1960s, blend in with nature, discover hidden gems or just want to try something different this Eid? Here’s the list:
Abu Dhabi
Erth Restaurant, North Parking, Qasr Al Hosn
Awarded a Michelin star and a Best MENA Restaurant award from a local magazine, diners will enjoy a modern chic atmosphere and a taste of Emirati culture. Each dish is sourced from local farms across the UAE. Erth Restaurant prides itself on serving traditional Emirati cuisine with a contemporary twist under the stars in the capital.
Dubai
Al Fanar Restaurant & Café
Location: Al Seef, Expo City Dubai, Al Barsha, Dubai Festival City
Travel back in time to 1960s Dubai. With rustic interiors and an outdoor courtyard, Al Fanar is the perfect place for you and your loved ones to celebrate Eid Al Adha while enjoying a wide range of authentic Emirati cuisine. After an authentic Emirati meal, Al Fanar also offers the opportunity to learn more about the UAE’s culture and heritage at its on-site museum.
Sharjah
Arabic Tea House, Souk Al Shanasiya, Corniche Street, Al Merijah
Opened in 1997, this hidden gem is located in the historic Al Fahidi district. Admire the delicate décor and quench your thirst with a hot cup of ghahwa, the traditional Emirati coffee. From turquoise benches to white rattan chairs and lace curtains, delicately surrounded by an array of florals, Arabian Tea House perfectly embodies the serene and authentic atmosphere that makes it the perfect Eid Al Adha brunch spot.
Ajman
The Grove, Al Zola Pavilion, Al Ittihad Street
Enjoy an Emirati and Levantine feast in harmony with nature. Parents can dine whilst enjoying the lush views of the mangroves and the sapphire blue lagoon, while the kids can spend time in the special play area next to the restaurant.
Umm Al Quwain
Emirates Sea Restaurant, King Faisal Street
A visit to Emirates Sea Restaurant not only offers you the chance to savour the finest seafood, but also the comfort of dining in cabins specially designed for families. The restaurant has a wide variety to choose from, so you can choose according to your taste.
Ras Al Khaimah
Kiva Wa Tabora, South Ardayt
Kiva Wa Tabora is surrounded by elegance and authenticity, offering visitors a unique experience in both food and ambience. Grape Leaves Mahsi (rice-stuffed grape leaves wrapped around a variety of vegetables) and Rahem Bejin (an open-faced meat pie often made with seasoned beef) are must-try dishes.
Fujairah
Rumaila Farm, Umbrella Beach
Try something different this Eid Al Adha and visit Rumaila Farm, the local source of milk for the Eastern Emirates region. Be sure to try the traditional handmade asida made with locally sourced ingredients. Looking for fun family activities?
be sure to book a farm tour so you and your family can meet the farm’s very own Jersey cows.
Photo: Instagram/Rumailah Farm