A desert safari in Dubai isn’t just about dune bashing and camel rides—it’s also a culinary experience under the stars. But if you’re a vegetarian or vegan traveler, you might wonder: Will there be enough plant-based options for me?
The answer is a resounding YES!
Dubai’s desert safari buffets are designed to cater to all dietary preferences, including vegetarians and vegans. Whether you crave fresh mezze, smoky grilled vegetables, or fragrant rice dishes, there’s a feast waiting for you in the heart of the desert.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best vegetarian and vegan dishes you can enjoy on a Dubai desert safari. 🌿✨
1. Arabic Mezze: A Vegetarian’s Dream
Mezze (small appetizers) are a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, offering a variety of flavorful, plant-based options. These dishes are naturally vegan or vegetarian, making them perfect for your safari dinner.
🥗 Must-Try Mezze Dishes (Vegan-Friendly)
- Hummus – Creamy chickpea dip with tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice.
- Baba Ghanoush – Smoky roasted eggplant blended with garlic and tahini.
- Fattoush – A refreshing salad with crispy pita, cucumbers, and pomegranate dressing.
- Tabbouleh – A fresh mix of parsley, bulgur, tomatoes, and lemon.
- Stuffed Vine Leaves (Warak Enab) – Grape leaves stuffed with herbed rice.
- Falafel – Deep-fried chickpea patties, served with tahini sauce.
- Lentil Soup – A warm, comforting soup made from slow-cooked lentils and spices.
Why You Should Try It: These dishes are nutrient-rich, packed with Middle Eastern flavors, and 100% plant-based.
✅ Vegan & Vegetarian Friendly
2. Grilled & Roasted Vegetable Specialties
If you love charred, smoky flavors, the live BBQ station has plenty of grilled vegetable options to enjoy. These dishes are freshly prepared and seasoned with traditional Arabic spices.
🔥 Must-Try Grilled Veggie Dishes
- Grilled Eggplant – Lightly charred, seasoned with cumin and olive oil.
- BBQ Bell Peppers & Zucchini – Marinated in Middle Eastern spices.
- Roasted Mushrooms – Tossed in garlic, lemon, and herbs.
- Spiced Potatoes – Oven-roasted with za’atar and sumac.
Why You Should Try It: These dishes are flavorful, hearty, and full of smoky goodness—ideal for vegans and vegetarians looking for a grilled experience.
✅ Vegan & Vegetarian Friendly
3. Hearty Arabic Vegetarian & Vegan Main Courses
Middle Eastern cuisine is known for its wholesome, filling dishes, many of which are naturally vegetarian or can be made vegan.
🍛 Must-Try Vegetarian & Vegan Main Dishes
- Vegetable Biryani – Aromatic rice cooked with saffron, carrots, peas, and spices.
- Koshari – A comforting Egyptian dish of rice, lentils, chickpeas, and pasta with spicy tomato sauce.
- Laban & Rice – A classic Emirati dish of creamy yogurt sauce over fragrant rice (vegetarian).
- Chickpea & Spinach Stew – Slow-cooked chickpeas with tomatoes and Arabic spices.
- Vegetable Salona – A traditional Emirati vegetable stew made with zucchini, carrots, and okra.
- Stuffed Peppers – Peppers filled with spiced rice and herbs.
Why You Should Try It: These dishes are rich in fiber, protein, and authentic Arabic flavors, ensuring a satisfying, plant-based meal.
✅ Vegetarian & Vegan Options Available
4. Delicious Vegan & Vegetarian Desserts
Middle Eastern desserts are decadent and sweet, with many plant-based options. While some contain dairy, many can be made vegan or have naturally plant-based ingredients.
🍮 Must-Try Desserts
✅ Vegan-Friendly Desserts:
- Luqaimat (without honey) – Crunchy dumplings (ask for date syrup instead of honey).
- Fresh Fruits – A vibrant selection of local fruits, including melons, dates, and figs.
✅ Vegetarian Desserts:
- Kunafa – A crispy, sweet pastry filled with cheese and soaked in rosewater syrup.
- Baklava – Flaky filo pastry filled with nuts and drizzled in honey.
- Umm Ali – A warm Arabic bread pudding with nuts and raisins.
Why You Should Try It: These desserts are sweet, indulgent, and the perfect ending to your meal.
✅ Vegetarian & Vegan Options Available
5. Traditional Arabic Beverages (Vegan & Vegetarian Approved!)
Pair your meal with refreshing Arabic drinks that complement the spices and smoky flavors of your dinner.
🥤 Must-Try Drinks
- Karak Tea – A strong, spiced tea with milk (ask for dairy-free if vegan).
- Jallab – A sweet, cooling drink made with dates, grape molasses, and rosewater.
- Laban – A yogurt-based drink, great for digestion (vegetarian).
- Fresh Juices – Orange, pomegranate, and watermelon juices are common.
- Arabic Coffee (Gahwa) – Traditional coffee flavored with cardamom and served with dates.
Why You Should Try It: These drinks enhance the flavors of your meal and provide a refreshing break from the desert heat.
✅ Vegan & Vegetarian Friendly
Final Thoughts: A Vegetarian & Vegan Feast in the Desert
Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or just looking for plant-based options, a Dubai desert safari offers plenty of delicious choices. From creamy hummus and grilled veggies to aromatic biryanis and sweet luqaimat, you won’t go hungry in the desert!
📌 Want to see the full desert safari dinner menu? 👉 Check out our complete menu here!
🌱 Are you a vegetarian or vegan traveler? Let us know in the comments which dish you’re most excited to try!