Author name: Rahim Jad

Curious about the local dishes you simply can’t miss? Looking for culinary experiences that will leave your taste buds craving more? Dubai is not just a city of towering skyscrapers and luxury shopping malls; it’s a vibrant melting pot of cultures, each adding its unique flavor to the city’s culinary scene. From traditional Arabic dishes to international delicacies, Dubai offers a feast for the senses. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring the diverse food scene here is an adventure of its own. In this foodie’s guide, we’ll take you through the top must-try dishes in Dubai, from street food to fine dining. Whether you’re craving something spicy, sweet, or savory, Dubai’s food scene has something to satisfy every palate. Get ready to indulge in the best dishes this dynamic city has to offer! Shawarma Shawarma is undoubtedly the king of street food in Dubai. This delicious dish consists of seasoned, marinated meat—usually chicken, beef, or lamb—that’s slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The meat is thinly sliced and served in a pita or flatbread, topped with a variety of condiments such as garlic sauce, tahini, pickles, and sometimes fries. It’s the perfect combination of flavors, making it a go-to snack for both locals and tourists. In Dubai, Shawarma is beloved for its convenience, flavor, and affordability. Whether you’re walking around the city or enjoying a late-night snack, Shawarma is available on every corner, served fresh and hot. Its popularity stems from the perfect balance of spices, textures, and the ability to customize it based on your preferences. Shawarma has become an iconic dish that connects locals and visitors with the vibrant culture of Dubai. For the best Shawarma in Dubai, head to Al Mallah, a well-known spot in Satwa, famous for its tender, flavorful Shawarma. Shawarma Factory is another excellent choice, offering a twist with creative fillings and sides. And if you’re near Jumeirah Beach, don’t miss Zaroob, where you can enjoy Shawarma in a lively, vibrant atmosphere with a unique fusion of flavors. Hummus Hummus is an essential part of Middle Eastern cuisine, and Dubai does it right. Made from chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic, it’s a creamy, rich dip that pairs perfectly with pita bread or fresh vegetables. This dish is a staple at every meal and is enjoyed by people of all ages. In Dubai, Hummus is served in various styles, from the traditional plain version to flavored options like roasted red pepper or garlic-infused varieties. It’s often served as part of a mezze platter, allowing you to sample a variety of dishes. Whether you’re enjoying it with a grilled kebab or simply as a snack, Hummus is a must-try in Dubai. The best Hummus can be found at Al Safadi, a renowned Lebanese restaurant that serves smooth and velvety Hummus. Zaroob also offers a great rendition of the dish, with an authentic blend of spices and creaminess that will have you coming back for more. Manakish Manakish is a Lebanese flatbread that is similar to pizza but with a unique Middle Eastern twist. The dough is topped with a variety of savory ingredients, such as za’atar (a blend of thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac), cheese, or minced meat. It’s then baked to perfection, resulting in a soft, aromatic, and satisfying meal. In Dubai, Manakish is enjoyed as a quick breakfast or lunch, with bakeries offering freshly baked versions at any time of the day. It’s perfect for grabbing on the go, and it’s often paired with a refreshing glass of laban (a yogurt-based drink). For an authentic taste of Manakish, Man’oushe Street is a popular choice. Their za’atar Manakish is a local favorite. Sami’s Manakish is also known for its rich fillings and soft, fluffy dough, making it a perfect spot for this iconic dish. Kebab Kebabs are a beloved dish across the Middle East, and Dubai offers a wide variety of kebab options to choose from. Whether you prefer lamb, chicken, or beef, the meat is marinated in a blend of spices and herbs before being skewered and grilled to perfection. The result is tender, juicy meat with a smoky flavor that’s absolutely irresistible. In Dubai, kebabs are typically served with rice, flatbread, and fresh salads, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. The variety of kebabs, including shish kebabs and koobideh, offers something for every meat lover. Al Ijaza Cafeteria is a top destination for kebabs, known for its flavorful grilled skewers. The Kebab Shop in Dubai Mall also offers a wide selection of kebabs, with both traditional and fusion options to satisfy your taste buds. Khuzi Khuzi is a dish that reflects the heart of Emirati culture, often served during celebrations, weddings, and special gatherings. The preparation is as impressive as the presentation—slow-roasted to perfection, ensuring tender, juicy meat that falls off the bone. The rice, infused with aromatic spices, complements the lamb beautifully, creating a harmony of flavors. For the best Khuzi experience in Dubai, head to places like Al Fanar Restaurant or Arabian Tea House, where the dish is prepared in the most authentic way. These restaurants offer a glimpse into traditional Emirati dining, with warm hospitality and a setting that transports you to a bygone era. Whether you’re exploring Dubai’s culinary heritage or simply seeking a hearty, flavorful meal, Khuzi is a must-try that captures the essence of the UAE’s rich food culture. Luqaimat Luqaimat, meaning “bite-sized” in Arabic, is a beloved Emirati dessert that holds a special place in Dubai’s culinary scene. These golden, crispy dumplings are made from a simple batter of flour, yeast, and sugar, deep-fried until perfectly crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. Drizzled generously with date syrup or honey and sprinkled with sesame seeds, Luqaimat is the ultimate sweet treat. This dessert is often prepared during Ramadan and festive occasions, symbolizing warmth and togetherness. The subtle sweetness and light, airy texture make it an irresistible snack for both locals and visitors. For an authentic Luqaimat experience, visit

Ahmed, an overseas Pakistani, always thought Dubai was just about shopping and tall buildings. But when his friends invited him to try something exciting, he had no idea what he was in for. Soon, he was jumping out of a plane over Palm Jumeirah and zooming across desert dunes. Dubai is not just a place for shopping and food; it’s also a playground for adventure lovers. Whether you love flying through the sky or speeding across the sand, there are endless exciting activities waiting for you. In this blog, we’ll show you eight thrilling activities in Dubai that will give you the ultimate adrenaline rush. Skydiving Over Palm Jumeirah Skydiving is an adventure that promises a rush of adrenaline and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Imagine jumping out of an aircraft at thousands of feet above the ground, with nothing but the vast blue sky beneath you. The wind rushes past, and as you freefall, the world below seems to shrink, giving you a unique perspective of the earth’s beauty. It’s a mix of excitement, fear, and pure joy all rolled into one unforgettable moment. Dubai offers many incredible spots for thrill-seekers, but none are as iconic as Palm Jumeirah. This stunning man-made island is famous for its palm tree shape and luxury developments, and it serves as the backdrop for one of the most thrilling skydiving experiences on earth. The beauty of Palm Jumeirah combined with the rush of skydiving makes it the ultimate location for this adventure. The rush you feel when freefalling is unlike any other thrill. The feeling of being in the sky, so high above everything, with the earth and the ocean unfolding beneath you, creates a surreal sensation. And then, as the parachute opens, you are gently gliding toward the landing area, taking in the full scope of the city. Skydiving over Palm Jumeirah is more than just an activity; it’s an experience that you will remember for the rest of your life. Dune Bashing in the Desert Dubai’s vast desert is not only known for its stunning golden sand dunes but also for offering one of the most thrilling activities you can experience in the region: dune bashing. This exciting off-road adventure takes you on a ride across the towering sand dunes in a powerful 4×4 vehicle, offering a heart-pumping experience like no other. Dune bashing starts with the anticipation of what’s to come. After meeting your experienced driver, you’ll hop into a 4×4 vehicle, which is specifically designed to handle the desert’s tricky terrain. Once you hit the sand, the real excitement begins. The vehicle speeds up and down the dunes, climbing steep slopes, sliding sideways, and diving into deep valleys. As you ride, the landscape around you changes with every turn. The golden sand stretches endlessly, offering an almost surreal backdrop as you speed across the desert. Paragliding Over the Arabian Sea Imagine soaring high above the sparkling waters of the Arabian Sea, with the gentle breeze brushing your face and a bird’s-eye view of the stunning coastline. Paragliding in Dubai offers one of the most unique and breathtaking adventures, combining the thrill of flight with the beauty of nature. The experience typically starts at one of Dubai’s most iconic spots, like the cliffs of Jebel Jais in the nearby emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. After a brief safety briefing and gearing up, you’ll take off with an experienced guide, running a few steps before being lifted into the air. As the wind catches the parachute, you’ll glide effortlessly over the Arabian Sea, feeling the exhilarating rush of wind beneath you. The view from above is absolutely spectacular. As you fly, you can see the rugged mountains of Jebel Jais, the lush greenery of the surrounding landscape, and the vast stretch of the Arabian coastline that fades into the horizon. Bungee Jumping at Dubai Marina For thrill-seekers, there’s no experience quite like bungee jumping at Dubai Marina. This adrenaline-pumping activity allows you to face your fear of heights head-on while enjoying one of the most scenic views in the city. Imagine standing at the edge of a platform, peering down at the bustling marina below. With the iconic skyscrapers of Dubai Marina and the sparkling waters of the Arabian Gulf stretching out before you, the view is both breathtaking and nerve-wracking. The moment you take the plunge, all that fear disappears in an instant as the rush of free-fall takes over. The thrill of bungee jumping isn’t just about the jump itself. It’s about the anticipation and overcoming that moment of hesitation, followed by pure excitement. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time jumper, this activity will test your limits and reward you with an experience unlike any other. The combination of heights, speed, and a stunning view makes bungee jumping at Dubai Marina a must-do for anyone looking for an ultimate adrenaline rush. Zip Lining at Dubai Marina Dubai Marina offers a one-of-a-kind thrill with its zip lining experience, giving you the chance to soar over the iconic marina and its towering skyscrapers. As you launch from the platform, you’re immediately struck by the sensation of flying above the city. The wind rushing through your hair and the view of the sparkling waters and luxury yachts below add to the thrill. The zip line is fast-paced and exhilarating, offering the perfect combination of adventure and awe. As you zoom across, you’ll get a unique bird’s-eye view of the impressive buildings, luxury apartments, and yachts below. It’s an adrenaline rush like no other, and the feeling of speed as you glide through the air is both thrilling and unforgettable. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or someone looking to try something new, zip lining at Dubai Marina is an experience you won’t want to miss. Racing at the Dubai Autodrome For those who dream of speed, the Dubai Autodrome is the ultimate destination. Located in Motor City, this world-class racing facility offers thrilling go-karting and racing experiences for adrenaline junkies of all

I was sitting in a quiet cafe in Downtown Dubai, enjoying the view of the Burj Khalifa, when my phone buzzed. It was my friend Muhammad, an investor from London. “Hey,” he said, Saeed, what exactly are the tax benefits for investors in Dubai?” Well, that question got me thinking. I smiled. This wasn’t the first time someone had asked me about Dubai’s tax system. “Muhammad,” I said, “Dubai isn’t just tax-free—it’s an investor’s paradise. Let me explain why so many people are choosing this city for their businesses and investments.” By the time we finished our conversation, Sarah was ready to book a flight to Dubai to learn more. If you’re wondering why Dubai is such a hotspot for investors, this guide will explain the five amazing tax benefits for investors in Dubai. 1.      Zero Personal Income Tax Imagine earning a six-figure salary, running a thriving business, or managing a portfolio of high-return investments—and keeping every single dirham of it. Sounds too good to be true? Well, in Dubai, this is just the way things work. Dubai’s no-income-tax policy is one of its biggest attractions for investors and professionals. Here, individuals don’t pay any taxes on their personal income, whether that’s from salaries, freelance work, or investments. Now, let’s pause and think about this for a moment: What would it mean to keep every dollar you earn? How much faster could you grow your savings or investments? And how would that compare to living in, say, London or New York? In cities like London, you might be paying up to 45% in income tax if you’re a high earner. In New York, the combined federal, state, and city taxes can leave you with barely 50% of your paycheck. Even Singapore, which is known for being tax-friendly, imposes income taxes of up to 22% on top earners. But in Dubai? It’s a big, fat zero. 2.      No Capital Gains Tax Ever heard of capital gains tax? It’s a tax many countries impose on the profit you make from selling an asset like property, stocks, or a business. In places like the UK or the US, this tax can eat up to 20% or more of your gains. But here’s the best part—Dubai doesn’t have it. For property investors, this is a goldmine. Imagine you buy an apartment in Dubai Marina for AED 2 million and sell it three years later for AED 2.5 million. In other markets, a chunk of that AED 500,000 profit would go to the tax authorities. In Dubai, however, you keep every dirham. It’s the same story for stock traders. Whether you’re making quick trades or holding for the long term, all your profits remain untouched by taxes. This is particularly appealing for high-frequency traders who can see their gains significantly eroded by taxes elsewhere. Entrepreneurs also reap the benefits. Selling a successful business in Dubai allows you to retain the full proceeds, offering more capital for your next venture or personal use. Here’s a quick scenario: Suppose Priya, an entrepreneur, sells her startup for AED 5 million. In another country, she’d lose up to AED 1 million in taxes. In Dubai? That’s AED 1 million more to reinvest or enjoy. When you think about it, no capital gains tax isn’t just a perk; it’s a massive motivator for investors and business owners to choose Dubai as their base. 3.      No Withholding Tax on Dividends and Interests Withholding tax is another financial headache in many countries. It’s the tax deducted from the payments of dividends, interest, or royalties, often paid to foreign investors. But guess what? Dubai doesn’t impose withholding tax. What does this mean for you as an investor or business owner? Simple: all the money you earn from dividends or interest stays in your pocket. For example, if you hold shares in a company based in Dubai, the dividends paid to you are 100% tax-free. Compare this with the US, where withholding tax on dividends for foreign investors can reach 30%. Even countries with tax treaties often deduct at least 10-15%. Dubai’s zero-withholding tax policy ensures maximum returns, making it a magnet for global investors. This policy is especially beneficial for business owners and international corporations. Companies based in Dubai can distribute profits to foreign shareholders without worrying about tax deductions. This seamless flow of funds enhances global collaboration and makes Dubai an attractive hub for international business operations. Take Raj, a tech entrepreneur who owns shares in a Dubai-based startup. Each year, he earns AED 200,000 in dividends. If the company were based elsewhere, Raj might lose AED 30,000 or more in taxes. In Dubai? He keeps the entire AED 200,000. For anyone managing investments, Dubai’s no-withholding tax policy offers not just savings but peace of mind. 4. 0% Corporate Tax for Qualifying Businesses In many parts of the world, corporate tax is a hefty burden for businesses. However, Dubai stands out with its 0% corporate tax rate for qualifying businesses, especially those operating in its numerous free zones. So, who qualifies? Businesses in Dubai’s free zones enjoy complete exemption from corporate tax, provided they meet the conditions, such as operating within the designated zones and adhering to local regulations. These zones cater to a variety of industries, including technology, trade, logistics, and finance, offering businesses the freedom to grow without worrying about tax liabilities. This tax structure creates a pro-business environment, encouraging startups and global companies to set up operations in Dubai. For entrepreneurs, it means more funds to reinvest in growth, hire talent, or develop innovative products. Let’s take an example: A logistics company in the Jebel Ali Free Zone earns AED 2 million annually. In other countries, it might pay 20-30% of that as corporate tax. In Dubai, it keeps the full amount, significantly boosting profitability and expansion potential. 4.      0% Corporate Tax for Qualifying Businesses Thinking of starting a business? Here’s why Dubai’s 0% corporate tax rate for qualifying businesses might just seal the deal for you. Let’s