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From classic cafeteria-style wraps, generously packed with pickles, tahini, and that occasional welcome hint of vegetable, to sleek saj shawarmas, crisped to perfection and bursting with juicy meat, heaps of toum, and just the right amount of golden fries—Dubai truly offers a shawarma for every palate and passion.
Shawarma is more than just a quick bite – it’s a feeling. It’s the taste of high school afternoons spent pooling together spare dirhams for a post-school snack, the soundtrack to university car park hangouts, where endless conversations were fuelled by karak and chicken shawarma. It’s comfort food, nostalgia, and a non-negotiable part of life in Dubai.
So, after years of dedicated taste-testing (and some exciting new finds!), here’s our definitive list of must-try shawarmas in the city. Go forth, savor every bite, and always remember: there’s no such thing as too much toum.
Al Ijaza Cafeteria
Whether you’re a lifelong Dubai resident or just passing through, chances are you’ve already heard whispers about this legendary institution. A late-night drive past Jumeirah Beach Road is all the proof you need – cars lined up deep into the service lane, a telltale sign of a spot that has stood the test of time for over two decades. And at the heart of the frenzy? The iconic Hassan Mattar. A glorious combination of grilled chicken, melted cheese, crispy fries, and just the right hit of garlic and hot sauce, all wrapped up in a perfectly toasted pita. This isn’t just a shawarma – it’s the shawarma other shawarmas aspire to be.
Address: Shop Number 1, Jumeirah-1, Beach Road, near Mercato Shopping Mall, Dubai. Tel: +971 4 344 4874
- Jumeirah
- @alijazacafe
- +971 4 344 4874
Laffah
Laffah is one of the most beloved OG shawarma spots for good reason. Their thinly shaved meat, spiced to perfection, is generously layered with sauce and crispy fries, making for a bite that lingers long after you’ve finished. Pro tip: Don’t leave without ordering their crinkle-cut chips, dusted in a signature seasoning that makes them dangerously addictive.
Address: Multiple locations across Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman.
- Various locations
- @laffahrestaurantuae
Saad Al Weraani
This no-frills cafeteria in Al Rashidiya has some serious street cred – it’s credited with inventing the first-ever Hassan Mathar. And while you should absolutely try the original, don’t sleep on the Hamdan shawarma, which comes packed with chicken, beef, melted cheese, and fries. Word of advice? Ask for fewer fries – the balance is better that way. You can thank us later.
Address: Al Kahf Building, Al Rashidiya, Dubai. Tel: +971 4 285 1062
- Al Rashadiya
- @saadalweraani
- +971 4 285 1062
Shawarma Al Farooj
If you remember the OG Al Farooj, you’ll know about the legendary Mexican shawarma. While the original still holds cult status, Shawarma Al Farooj on Al Bada’a Street serves up its own take – with a spicy, tangy sauce, crispy fries, and juicy chicken that’ll keep you coming back. Their meat shawarma and Lebanese-style chicken wrap are equally worth your attention.
Address: Al Badaa Street, Trade Centre 1. Tel: +971 4 335 5723
- Al Badaa Street
- @shawermaalfarooj
- +971 4 335 5723
Shawarmetna
Some nights, you just want to kick back in your pyjamas, embrace Dubai’s elite-level delivery game, and let the food come to you. Enter Shawarmetna: a delivery-only concept that’s all about bold flavours and late-night satisfaction. If you’re hosting friends or just feeling extra indulgent, their shawarma sliders box – available in chicken, beef, or a mix of both – is a must. Served with an assortment of dips, it’s the ultimate sharing platter.
Address: Delivers across Al Baraha, Al Manhal, Al Qusais Industrial Area 2, Downtown Burj Khalifa, and Dubai Festival City. Available on Talabat.
- Delivery only
- @shawarmetna.me
