Cultural breakfast/lunch

Feast with the locals
Noteworthy for: This is one of the few places where you can sample genuine Emirati cuisine.

Surprisingly, there are few opportunities in Dubai to sample the local fare (doner kebabs don’t count), and fewer outlets to have a heart to heart with an Emirati. The Sheikh Mohammed Cultural Centre for Understanding solves both these dilemmas in one go with their cultural breakfasts and lunches. The Centre hosts a feast of typical Emirati fare out of a restored Arabic residence in the historical district of Bastakiya. The food is prepared by Emiratis, so it’s the real deal.
The best part of these gatherings isn’t the food, however, but the chance to learn more about Emirati culture. There is a question and answer period where the hosts unabashedly answer questions touching on everything from religious practice to gender roles. The vibe is relaxed, and participants walk away with full bellies and a better understanding of their host country.