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What makes breakfast in Arabic countries so unique and unforgettable? It’s not just about the food, it’s about the experience. Sitting around a table with friends or family, sharing warm bread, creamy spreads, and flavorful bites, is a cherished tradition across the Arab world.

If you’re visiting the UAE or a local looking to reconnect with traditional flavors, Dubai offers the perfect setting to enjoy this cultural delight. From rich dips and fresh salads to warm saj and golden falafel, the Arabic breakfast menu is varied, hearty, and full of soul.

Below, we explore ten must-try Arabic breakfast dishes, including some standout items from the beloved eatery Babati, known for serving one of the best Arabic breakfasts in Dubai.

1. Hummus Fatteh

A richer, more indulgent version of classic hummus, Hummus Fatteh is a layered dish made with chickpeas, tangy yogurt, crispy bits of bread, and a generous sprinkle of mixed nuts. The textures, creamy, crunchy, and smooth, make it a flavor-packed start to the morning. It’s a popular dish at Babati and is often served warm and shared across the table. Also, it pairs perfectly with authentic Lebanese bread for a complete experience.

2. Arabic Bread

At the heart of it all is the bread. Fresh Arabic bread ties every dish together. Whether you’re scooping up labneh, dipping into foul, or wrapping cheese and vegetables, this warm, pillowy staple is more than just a side; it’s the centerpiece.

3. Labneh

Simple yet essential, labneh is strained yogurt that’s creamy, tangy, and incredibly smooth. Often topped with olive oil and served with zaatar, it’s one of the most common Arabic breakfast dishes. It balances out heavier items on the table and adds a refreshing coolness when paired with warm saj bread.

4. Falafel

These deep-fried chickpea patties are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. Falafel is seasoned with herbs and spices and served with tahini or hummus. At Babati, they’re part of a full breakfast spread, offering both texture and taste. Falafel is a great source of protein and a favorite for vegetarians.

5. Cheese & Olive Platter

No Arabic breakfast is complete without a plate of white cheeses like halloumi or akkawi, served with olives, sliced cucumbers, and tomatoes. This combination adds a salty, creamy element to the meal and gives a refreshing contrast to richer dishes. Babati serves a beautifully arranged mix cheese platter that’s ideal for sharing.

6. Zaatar & Cheese Saj

Saj is a thin flatbread cooked on a convex griddle and topped with flavorful ingredients. Zaatar and cheese saj is a warm, savory option that combines tangy zaatar spice mix with creamy cheese, folded into the bread. It’s served hot and makes a comforting, carb-rich favorite for any breakfast table.

7. Omelette & Mixed Vegetables

While eggs are eaten around the world, the Arabic-style omelette is often cooked with herbs or vegetables and served alongside fresh mixed vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, and cherry tomatoes. This light yet satisfying combo is a healthy way to balance out heavier items like hummus and falafel.

8. Mini Pizza (Arabic Style)

At Babati, you’ll also find mini Arabic-style pizzas, a modern twist on traditional manakish. These small flatbreads are topped with tomato, cheese, and spices, and baked fresh. They add variety to the breakfast platter and are especially popular with kids.

9. Halawa, Jam, and Butter

Sweet options are always included in an Arabic breakfast menu. Halawa (also known as halva) is a sesame-based sweet often served in small slices. Combined with fresh jam and butter, it offers a delightful finish, or beginning, to your breakfast experience.

10. Foul Medames

Known simply as foul, this traditional favorite has mashed fava beans slow-cooked with garlic, lemon, and olive oil. At Babati, it’s served with fresh bread and pickled vegetables, and it pairs perfectly with other small dishes. Rich in protein and deeply comforting, foul is a go-to for anyone seeking a hearty breakfast.

Top Tips to Enjoy Arabic Breakfast to the Fullest

Now that you know which dishes you must try for an Arabic breakfast experience, we are sharing some tips to enjoy the complete experience.

1. Share the Experience

Arabic breakfast is meant to be shared. Instead of ordering one dish per person, order a mix of plates for the whole table. This creates a friendly, communal atmosphere and lets everyone enjoy a little bit of everything.

2. Start Light, Then Build Up

Begin your meal with lighter items like labneh, olives, or fresh vegetables. Then move on to heavier dishes like foul, hummus, fatteh, or saj. This helps your palate ease into the diverse flavors without feeling overwhelmed.

3. Use Bread as Your Utensil

Arabic bread isn’t just a side, it’s your best tool. Use it to scoop up dips, wrap around cheese and herbs, or fold around falafel. This traditional way of eating brings authenticity and connection to every bite.

4. Take Your Time

There’s no rush with Arabic breakfast. It’s not a quick grab-and-go meal, it’s a slow, satisfying ritual. Sit back, sip some karak tea or Arabic coffee, and enjoy each bite while chatting with family or friends.

5. Try Something New

If you’re used to Western breakfasts, step out of your comfort zone. Try dishes like hummus fatteh, zaatar saj, or halawa. Exploring new flavors is part of the joy of Arabic breakfast.

6. Balance Sweet and Savory

Arabic breakfast in Dubai often includes both savory dishes and sweet touches like jam or halawa. Don’t hesitate to mix and match. Many locals enjoy ending their meal with a sweet bite and a final sip of tea.

7. Ask for Fresh Items

At places like Babati, items are made fresh to order. Don’t hesitate to ask the staff for freshly baked bread or hot saj. You’ll taste the difference, and the meal will feel even more comforting.

8. Go for Variety, Not Quantity

It’s tempting to fill your plate with everything, but try small portions of many dishes instead. A variety of tastes and textures is the essence of Arabic breakfast, and it allows you to savor each flavor without overeating.

Where to Find the Best Arabic Breakfast in Dubai?

Are you craving a full traditional experience? Head to Babati, a cozy and authentic spot known for its flavorful dishes, generous portions, and inviting atmosphere.

Their Arabic breakfast in Dubai is a well-balanced spread that includes foul, labneh, hummus, falafel, olives, cheese platter, omelette, fresh vegetables, halawa, jam, butter, zaatar & cheese saj, mini pizzas, and, of course, fresh bread. It’s the kind of meal that feels like home, whether you’re local or just visiting.

For a warm and welcoming Arabic breakfast, Babati offers the ideal setting. Whether you’re dining solo or with the whole family, Babati brings tradition to your table with every bite.

Conclusion

Whether you’re starting your day in the heart of Dubai or looking for a warm meal to gather around with family, Arabic breakfast delivers flavor, tradition, and comfort. With its wide variety of dishes, from savory to sweet, from light to filling, it offers something for everyone.

And when it comes to enjoying the best Arabic breakfast in Abu Dhabi or Dubai, Babati is a name you can trust. Their thoughtful menu, rich flavors, and warm service make them a favorite among locals and visitors alike. To experience it for yourself, call 042 87 9544 and book your breakfast today. Your taste buds will thank you.