Dubai, often associated with luxury and grandeur, is also an incredible destination for families looking for fun and memorable experiences. With a plethora of activities tailored for children and adults alike, Dubai offers a blend of education, entertainment, and excitement that caters to every family member. From world-class theme parks to educational museums and outdoor adventures, Dubai ensures that every family trip is packed with joy and learning.

Theme Parks and Entertainment Centers

One of the highlights for any family visiting Dubai is its vast array of theme parks. IMG Worlds of Adventure, the world’s largest indoor theme park, offers thrilling rides themed around popular characters from Marvel and Cartoon Network. Meanwhile, LEGOLAND Dubai provides interactive experiences that both entertain and stimulate creativity in children, making it a perfect spot for younger kids. For families who enjoy water activities, Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis, The Palm, offers a fun-filled day with water slides, a shark tunnel, and a chance to relax on its private beach.

Educational Museums and Cultural Attractions

Photo by Mohamad: https://www.pexels.com/photo/white-concrete-building-near-body-of-water-5120656/

Dubai is also home to an impressive range of museums and cultural attractions that are both fun and educational. The Dubai Museum, located in the historic Al Fahidi Fort, provides insights into the traditional way of life in the Emirates. For a more hands-on educational experience, the OliOli Children’s Museum offers interactive exhibits designed to spark curiosity and creativity among young minds. These cultural venues offer families a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage and history in an engaging and accessible way.

Car Rental in Dubai for Family Convenience

Exploring Dubai with your family requires flexibility and ease of travel. Renting a car is one of the most convenient ways to navigate the city, especially with family in tow. By visiting https://drive.yango.com, families can choose from a wide selection of vehicles to find one that best suits their needs, ensuring comfort during their travels across the city. Having a rental car means you can easily transition from one attraction to another, making the most out of your family vacation without the stress of public transportation.

Luxurious Family Rides with a Bentley Bentayga

For families seeking to add a touch of luxury to their travel experience in Dubai, renting a high-end vehicle like the Bentley Bentayga can enhance the journey immensely. The Bentayga, known for its supreme comfort and exceptional performance, offers ample space and is equipped with state-of-the-art features that ensure a safe and enjoyable ride. To explore rental options for this luxury SUV, visit https://drive.yango.com/rent-cars-dubai/all/bentley/bentayga and treat your family to an unforgettable ride around Dubai.

Outdoor Adventures and Nature Experiences

Photo by The Lazy Artist Gallery: https://www.pexels.com/photo/photography-of-woman-walking-on-seashore-1089645/

Dubai might be famous for its skyscrapers, but it also offers numerous outdoor activities that allow families to connect with nature. The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve provides opportunities for desert safaris, camel rides, and sandboarding, which can be exciting for both children and adults. Additionally, the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary offers a chance to observe flamingos and other wildlife in their natural habitat, providing a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Culinary Adventures for the Whole Family

Dubai’s food scene is as diverse as its population, and dining out can be a delightful experience for families. The city offers a vast range of dining options suitable for children, from casual eateries with dedicated kids’ menus to themed restaurants that turn a meal into an adventure. Trying local dishes or enjoying cuisine from around the world can also be a fun way for families to explore new flavors together.

Dubai presents a fantastic array of activities that cater to families with children of all ages, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. With the convenience of car rental services like Yango, families can enjoy the freedom to explore Dubai at their own pace, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Whether cruising in a luxurious Bentley Bentayga or discovering the natural beauty and rich culture of the Emirates, Dubai offers an enriching experience for every family.

When it comes to Indian restaurants in Dubai, you can find all kinds of setups, from chain restaurants to Michelin-star Indian restaurants. There are so many options that it will leave you spoilt for choices. We have made a list of the best Indian restaurants in Dubai that are a must-try; check out how many have you tried! And if not, consider these for your next Indian food cravings.

1. Antique Bazaar

This restaurant will have you travel to the times when Kings ruled India! The whole décor of this place will make you feel that you have entered a Mahal (an Indian Palace). The place has a rustic vibe, plus the menu of this place is inspired by the “Shahi Kitchen” that operated during the king’s era in India. Every dish will have an explosion of flavors in your mouth! By far, Antique Bazar is one of the classiest dine-out options in Bur Dubai.

Some of the dishes that you must not miss at Antique Bazaar are:

• Gosht Angar
• Kabuli Chaat
• Machli Amritsari
• Sheekh Subz Bahar

2. Indego by Vineet

Vineet Bhatia is a Michelin-starred Indian celebrity chef who has created an Indian restaurant named Indego in Dubai. Vineet is known for his fusion dishes that have a hint of traditional taste along with a modern presentation, and you can expect the same thing in the menu of Indego. The USP of this restaurant is that it uses only authentic Indian spices along with fresh ingredients. The Dishes that are served at Indego restaurant look exquisite and Instagram- post-worthy. You can spot this Michelin-recommended restaurant in Dubai Marina

some dishes that are a must-try here are:

• Kabab Platter
• Rogan Josh
• Butter Chicken
• Biryani

3. Rang Mahal

The name of the restaurant itself sounds so Indian & so opulent that you would want to visit this restaurant for the mere experience of grandeur. Rang Mahal is a perfect combination of colorful ambiance set up in a classy way. An International Michelin-starred celebrity chef owns this restaurant, and he has put in all his culinary experience to make this restaurant a fantastic spot to have Indian food. You will find deliciously made food from different corners of India at Rang Mahal, and each of the dishes will have your mouth explode with delicious flavors. You can count on Rang Mahal even for Iftar dinner in Dubai.

Some dishes that are not to be missed here are:

• Soft Shell Crab
• Fish Fry
• Kori Kempu
• Keema Toast

5. Gharana

The word “Gharana” literally translates to family, and that is what this place will make you feel like (a restaurant that has a homely feel to it!). If you want to experience not only authentic Indian food but also Indian culture, Indian (Bollywood) music, and Indian hospitality, then you should pay a visit to Gharana. As soon as you step inside this restaurant, you will feel you have entered the heart of India. This restaurant starts only for early dinner, dinner, and late-night dinner (you will find many other late-night restaurants in Dubai, for your late-night cravings!).

A ProTtip: Do not miss out on the delicious Litchi Rabri (a sweet dish) of this place; some other dishes that you must try at Gharana are:

• Chicken Biryani
• Nihari Al Subha
• Murgh Ghazala

6. Armani Amal

This is an Armani-owned restaurant where Armani himself does the restaurant’s interiors. Armani Amal is all glass-walled, which lets you see the stunning skyline of Dubai while you have your dinner (the place looks exquisite, especially at night!). Apart from having authentic Indian food, it will also be an experience of a lifetime for you. As soon as you step inside the restaurant, you will hear soothing Indian music; also, the service at this restaurant is quick, making your whole experience flawless!

Following are some dishes that you must not miss:

• Goan Fish Curry
• Basil Naan Bread
• Biryani

7. Bombay Chawpatty

Bombay Chawpatty is a chain restaurant that operates in Dubai and feels omnipresent in the whole of Dubai! (There are more than 18 outlets of Bombay Chawpatty in Dubai, and the number is increasing yearly). If you are looking for your comfort Indian food, you can head to the outlet of Bombay Chawpatty; they serve good Indian food, and the spread is quite huge. Right from starters to desserts, you will find everything on their menu and you can also have food delivered to your doorsteps from Bombay Chawpatty. Use the noon food app, where you get discount on online food delivery if you have legit coupons. You can also check out their Buffet menu.

Some dishes that are a must-try here are:

• Chicken Curry
• Bhel Puri
• Masala Chai
• Dosa

8. Rangoli Restaurant

Till now in the article, we have seen opulent hotels with premium price points; however, you need not pay exorbitantly to have delicious Indian food in Dubai. There are restaurants like Rangoli that are known for their food and will not leave a hole in your pocket! If you are away from home for long and crave some home-cooked Indian dishes, Rangoli restaurant will come to your rescue. This place is specifically known for its authentic Gujarati food, but you can order other Indian dishes as well. It has a simple décor but extremely friendly staff. For regular Gujarati dinners, this can be your go-to Indian restaurant in Dubai (for other cuisine like Kerala food in Dubai, you can check out Tamarind Terrace).

The place is known for food options like:

• Gujarati Thali
• Chaat

9. Amritsr Restaurant

Whether you are a desperate foodie or looking for some authentic Indian dishes, Amritsr Restaurant has planned its extensive menu to satisfy your cravings. As the name itself truly depicts the Indian cultural vibes, you can expect rich Indian food in the deserted land of Dubai. The place offers a symphony of fine dining that showcases how beautifully Indian cuisine is presented in Indian style. The restaurant gives you the opportunity to relish the Indian taste away from home.

The specialties to try at Amritsr Restaurant are:

• Pav Bhaji
• Mango Kulfi
• Different types of Indian flatbread
• Chicken Banjara
• Rajma Masala

10. Purani Dilli

How mesmerizing and nostalgic the restaurant’s name sounds! It brings back the good old memories one can resonate with old Delhi, and with the traditional flavors being served on the plates, anyone can enjoy the deliciousness and aroma that revives the old traditional vibes. The restaurant aims to introduce the most revered recipes of Delhi in Dubai and serve them in royal etiquettes, which make it an authentic Indian restaurant that truly depicts the royalty of Old Delhi.

Some of the must-haves at Purani Dilli Restaurant are:

• Chicken Biryani
• Nihari
• Beetroot Halwa
• Paneer Tikka Masala

11. Bombay Brasserie

Get ready to experience the diverse gastronomy and rich culinary journey through Indian cuisine at Bombay Brasserie, where you can enjoy the pleasant aroma of vibrant and flavorful dishes. It’s a signature restaurant at Taj Dubai and truly depicts a seamless blend of contemporary and traditional art through its interior. The mural art, botanical bar, and live kitchen are some of the highlights that make dining at Bombay Brasserie an unforgettable experience.

Some dishes to try at Bombay Brasserie include:

• Seafood Ramen
• Murg Malai
• Lasooni Palak Paneer
• Khajoor Anjeer Halwa

12. The Crossing

The Crossing is a refined blend of modern Indian aesthetics and traditional flavors where you find well-curated recipes to make you nostalgic about the supreme heritage of the sub-continent. The restaurant celebrates the Indian influence over Dubai and how the residents of the golden land enjoy its flavors. The minimal décor is yet another eye-catching element of The Crossing, and when the traditional, aromatic food is served on the table, you will memorize nothing but just the flavors oozing out of the dishes.

When at The Crossing, don’t forget to try:

• Rogan Josh
• Tandoori Salmon
• Parsi Pulao
• Gulab Jamun Brulee

13. Sthan

Sthan means ‘place’; just like the name, the restaurant presents the evolution of rich Asian food that is an amalgam of high-quality, traditional cuisine and contemporary fine dining. The restaurant is a culinary masterpiece where you will explore rich Asian cuisines, especially from Pakistan, India, and Afghanistan, in a cozy atmosphere where you can enjoy homemade food away from home. Sthan is also among those few restaurants where you will find a rich blend of North-west Asian food with a modern touch of West.

Some of the popular dishes at Sthan are:

• Grilled and tandoori BBQ
• Raan Irani
• Murg Kali Mirch
• Dahi ke Kebab
• Mango Lassi

Bottom Line

The diverse traditional and cultural cuisines that are indigenous to the subcontinent are truly reflected in Indian cuisine. Every Indian city has a unique delicacy to offer due to the diversity of its ethnic, cultural, and social groupings. Living in Dubai brings opportunities to explore various cultures and cuisines, and if you want to delve into the richness of Asian cuisine, the above-mentioned restaurants are worth a try. Whether you are a tourist or living in Dubai, enjoying these scrumptious dishes from Indian cuisine will take you on a rollercoaster ride of memories and flavors that stay with you forever.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Name some of the popular street foods of India.

Aalo chana chaat, bhel puri, jhalmuri, poha, dahi vada, kanji vada, kachori, dosa, and pav bhaji are some of the popular street food items of India.

Is Indian cuisine spicy?

There are several Indian dishes which are popular for their spicy flavors but not all Indian dishes are too spicy. There are various Indian dishes which are mild and are still tasted flavorful. In these dishes, the spices are kept minimal and do not produce burning hot sensation to the taste buds.

Name the popular Indian desserts.

Gajar ka Halwa, Gulab Jamun, Kaju Katli, Rasgulla, Mishti Doi, Besan Laddu, and Kheer are some of the popular traditional Indian desserts.

Traditions, culture, norms, and lifestyle vary from region to region across our globe. An act considered as a norm in one nation may make you eligible for a year in jail in another. For people who take pleasure in traveling, knowing the basic norms of a state is essential to ensure a safe visit where neither you are affected nor the nationals around you. 

Aligning Norms: Tourists Blending in With Locals 

If you are amongst those willing to take a tour of the UAE, it is advisable to know their norms and culture as they are based on their ancestral history of Arabian, Islamic, Persian, East African, and Indian cultures. Here’s a list of cultural basics tourists should be aware of. 

Welcoming and Greeting the Locals in UAE

Since, the UAE is typically a Muslim majority country, the greeting they have is “Assalamu Alaikum” or in simple language, “May peace be upon you”. The Muslims typically respond with “Wa alaikum Assalam” but say “Wa alaikum” only if you belong to another religion. One should be familiar with this. They are advised to give a better response, a better greeting than the one given to them. (For fellow Muslims). Emiratis also like greeting their visitors warmly. This may involve hugs and handshakes. However, it is against Muslim tradition and culture for men to greet women in this manner.  Women remain reserved as per tradition and religion. In Ramadan especially where such an act breaks the fast. So, if you are here for a visit, do not greet women in this manner. When people enter the religious centers, i.e. the mosques they are expected to shake hands, using both hands is a religious practice. On special occasions such as Eid, Emiratis hug while turning their head against the shoulder of the person they greet three times. 

Communication Basics

As a tourist or a visitor, you must know that the national language of UAE is Arabic although English is also widely spoken across the country. Other than Arabic and English common languages include Persian, Hindi, Urdu, Bengali, and Chinese. Hence, make sure you know at least Arabic or English to avoid difficulty in communication. 

Muslim Culture and Norms: Maintaining Boundaries

The dominant religion in UAE is Islam, particularly of Sunni Muslims. People from other religions also reside in safety here as Islam forbids evil treatment of those belonging to other religions. However, what must be kept in mind, is that UAE does not permit the propagation and spread of other religions other than Islam. Hence, sharing pamphlets or distributing the bible and other religious books cause get you deported out of the UAE. 

In Ramadan, people here, fast from slightly before dawn to dusk. This custom involves refraining from eating and drinking (water and any other liquids) between this time frame. It also includes avoiding any evil deeds such as lying, back-biting or stealing. Eating in malls and public places, in front of fasting Muslims, is unethical and illegal. Malls such as Dubai Mall and Abu Dhabi Mall prohibit such an act. 

If you happen to visit the UAE during this month, it is advisable and ethical to avoid eating or drinking in public. 

Public Holidays

Major yearly celebrations that locals have are commemoration day 30th November, National Day 2nd of December, Isra wal Miraj, 27th Rajab, Eid-Ul-Fitar 1st Shawal, Arafah Day, Eid-ul- Azha, Eid Milad-un-Nabi, and other basic Islamic annual days. 

The people here respect and adhere to the teachings of the final messenger of God may peace and blessings be upon him. Hence one should be careful while speaking about him ﷺ.

How to Dress Ethically

Men and women in Dubai are not permitted to wear clothing that doesn’t cover their shoulders or knees. Their basic core ethic is “modesty.”

If you are a visitor to the UAE, know that the nationals find it rude if Western males wear the national Emirati dress unless they are willing to visit a desert safari or another such area. Women should dress modestly and avoid and indecency within their dress code.  

 Although, there aren’t any restrictions on visitors, for the kind of dress they are expected to abide to, they should still avoid dressing that might distress the locals. Dresses that are too revealing or very short may become a cause of this distress. 

UAE Residents Eating Preferences

People in the Emirates don’t drink or eat pork, since their religion prohibits it to them. They eat “halal” food. Food that hasn’t been prohibited by their religion. So, while eating with a fellow Emirati remember not to offer them a drink or pork. It is also better to search the halal food list to get a better idea of what not to eat in public. Other than this, Emiratis prefer camel milk and dates over other food. 

Interacting with Women

Women and men are given their due rights in UAE. Women are given the right to education, to practice their chosen profession and the right to inherit property. They are provided with equal facilities as men. However, despite this, women in the Emirates do not like their photographs being taken. They also refrain from talking to men and are generally avoiding any form of physical contact. 

So, while traveling to the Emirates, remember to refrain from these acts.

Interest in Luxurious Lifestyle

UAE residents dwell in luxury due to the massive amounts of petroleum and natural gas reserves, which they use for obtaining a GDP of US$498 billion (AED 1.83 trillion) as of 2023. They often take luxury items for granted as they have made extravagance a part of their lives. From interior designing, including Wood flooring and well-furnished houses to popular cars and latest technology. Dubai has it all.  

As a tourist you must know, due to this combination of wealth, religion, and diversity of cultures you are bound to find all sorts of people, from women in jilbabs to those barely wearing any clothes at all. 

The Crux

Residents of the UAE are mostly Muslims. Hence, they follow most typical Muslim traditions. Their way of greeting, their ethics of socialization, traditions, norms, and lifestyle, resemble those of Muslims across the globe. 

If you are one, you won’t have most of the complications that other visitors might have while visiting the UAE. Even if you are not, know that the locals here are ever-welcoming and warmly loving people. Their gestures depict love and affection. However, you must remember to make sure you know either basic English or Arabic language, remain formal with women, dress ethically, eat halal when with fellow residents and enjoy your tour.