Experiences

Emirati Seafood on a Budget

Emirati cuisine is deeply rooted in the bounty of the sea, offering rich seafood flavors shaped by the Gulf’s heritage. But you don’t have to dine at a five-star restaurant to enjoy it. From grilled hammour by the creek to shrimp machboos in heritage kitchens, this guide explores how to experience delicious, authentic Emirati seafood on a budget—all while understanding the culture behind each bite.

2 min

Seafood plays a central role in traditional Emirati cuisine, especially in coastal communities like Dubai, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah. Once the food of fishermen and pearl divers, dishes like grilled hammour, machboos samak, and fried mackerel continue to be beloved staples—many of which can be enjoyed at humble prices in local eateries and seaside markets.

Top Budget-Friendly Emirati Seafood Dishes

1. Grilled Hammour

A Gulf classic, this white, flaky fish is usually marinated with lemon, garlic, and Emirati spices, then grilled or charcoal-smoked.

Where to Try:

  • Bu Qtair (Jumeirah Fishing Village) – ~$7–$12
  • Al Fannah Restaurant (Sharjah) – ~$10

2. Shrimp Machboos

A spiced rice dish made with shrimp, tomatoes, dried lemon (loomi), and Emirati masala—hearty, flavorful, and comforting.

Where to Try:

  • Al Fanar Restaurant (Dubai, Yas Mall) – ~$10–$14
  • Al Tawasol (Deira) – ~$9

3. Samboosa with Fish or Shrimp

Inspired by Indian samosas but stuffed with minced seafood and aromatic herbs. A cheap and tasty snack.

Where to Try:

  • Local cafeterias in Ajman and Fujairah – ~$1 each
  • Ravi’s Cafeteria (Bur Dubai)

4. Fried Mackerel with Rice

A dish you’ll find in older neighborhoods and markets, served with rice and tangy mango chutney.

Where to Try:

  • Hor Al Anz fish stalls – ~$5–$8
  • Old Sharjah Souk eateries

5. Seafood Thareed

A bread-soaked stew using shrimp or fish with vegetables in a light curry base, served during family-style meals.

Where to Try:

  • Heritage House cafés (Dubai Creek) – ~$6–$9

Cultural Insights: The Soul of Coastal Cuisine

Emirati seafood reflects both geography and community life. Historically, fishing was a lifeline. Today, the flavors remain as humble and honest as ever, especially in non-touristy neighborhoods and at old-school eateries run by Emiratis.

You’ll find traditional recipes passed down generations, often using loomi, turmeric, coriander, and cumin—all simmered or grilled with respect for the ingredient and sea.

Where to Shop & Eat Like a Local

  • Waterfront Fish Markets
    Visit Dubai’s Deira Fish Market or Sharjah Fish Market in the early morning. Many vendors cook your chosen seafood on-site for a small fee (~$2–$3).
  • Friday Seafood Buffets (Budget Options)
    Look for weekend local buffets in Karama, Rolla, or Al Wahda Street with home-style seafood spreads for under $15.
  • Beachfront Food Trucks & Cafes
    Kite Beach, Al Qurm Corniche, and Al Majaz often host pop-up seafood trucks with affordable Emirati-style menus.

Cost Breakdown: Eating Seafood on a Budget

When it comes to coastal cuisine, a Grilled Hammour Plate is a popular favorite, typically priced between $7 and $12. Shrimp Machboos, a fragrant rice dish packed with spices and flavor, usually costs around $9 to $14. For a quick snack, Seafood Samboosas are available at just $1 to $2 per piece. A hearty Fried Fish and Rice Combo makes for a satisfying meal at $5 to $10. For those looking to indulge, local seafood buffets offer a wide variety of dishes and generally range from $10 to $15.

UAE’s seafood doesn’t always wear a tuxedo—it’s also served from tandoors by the beach, over plastic tables in bustling markets, or straight from a fisherman’s pot. For authentic Emirati seafood on a budget, all you need is an open appetite and a curiosity to explore. Let Hi DMC curate a seafood street food trail for you, including market visits, tasting tours, and cultural dining experiences—at prices that satisfy every budget.

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