A Practical Guide to Best Breakfast Places in Dubai for Expats

Dubai offers a wide range of breakfast options reflecting its multicultural population and local Emirati heritage. As an expat, you'll find everything from traditional local dishes to familiar international fare, though navigating the options can take some getting used to. This guide covers the best breakfast in Dubai with practical information to help you make choices. 

The morning ritual: Understanding Dubai's breakfast culture 

The best breakfast restaurants in Dubai varies significantly depending on the community and setting. Traditional Emirati breakfast tends to be leisurely and family-oriented, while the international expat community often favours quick, familiar options before work. Many restaurants cater to both preferences, though authenticity and quality can vary considerably between establishments.

Peak breakfast hours typically run from 7-10 AM on weekdays and extend until noon on weekends, when popular spots often have waiting times. 

Sweet awakening: Traditional Emirati morning fare 

Local Emirati breakfast dishes are more about the region's culinary heritage, though they may be unfamiliar to many expats. Among good breakfast in Dubai, most are quite sweet compared to Western breakfast standards. 

Balaleet  

Sweet vermicelli noodles with cardamom and sugar, often topped with pine nuts. Being one of the top breakfast in Dubai, the flavour profile is unique - part dessert, part breakfast. Al Fanar Restaurant serves a traditional version, though expect premium prices for the tourist-friendly atmosphere. 

Chbaab  

A flatbread that's sweeter than most Western breads, typically served with honey or cheese. Al Safadi offers this dish in a more casual setting. 

Foul Medames  

Fava beans with garlic, cumin, and olive oil - one of the more savoury traditional options. Logma serves a decent version, though some expats find the texture takes getting used to. 

Luqaimat  

Sweet fried dough balls with date syrup. Essentially a breakfast dessert. Al Marhabani Restaurant prepares these fresh, but they're quite heavy for morning consumption. 

Comfort zone: International breakfast classics 

Dubai's international restaurants generally offer familiar Western breakfast, though quality and authenticity vary widely. 

Eggs Benedict  

Bistro des Arts in Dubai Marina serves a competent version with marina views, though the hollandaise can be inconsistent. Weekend waits are common. 

Avocado Toast  

The Lime Tree Café offers fresh preparations in a casual setting. Popular with health-conscious expats, though portion sizes are modest. 

French Toast  

Walnut Grove provides an elevated version with fresh fruit, but it's quite sweet and filling. 

Health-focused breakfast choices 

Dubai has embraced the healthy breakfast trend, with Instagram-worthy presentations and nutritious ingredients. 

Smoothie Bowls  

Wild & The Moon creates photogenic bowls using quality ingredients, though they may not sustain energy levels through a full morning. 

Quinoa Bowls  

The Café at Museum of the Future offers these in an interesting architectural setting, though the museum entry makes this more of a destination meal. 

Family-friendly morning spots 

Kidzania Café (Dubai Mall) combines breakfast with entertainment for children, though the mall location means crowds and parking challenges. 

The Cheesecake Factory offers familiar American-style portions and kids' menus, though wait times can extend beyond 30 minutes on weekends. 

Tasha's (DIFC Gate Village) provides a more relaxed family atmosphere with reasonable portions, with secure DIFC parking.  

Room with a view: Breakfast against Dubai's skyline 

At The Top Café (Burj Khalifa) offers unique views but requires advance booking and significant expense. The breakfast quality doesn't match the price point. 

Pierchic provides waterfront dining with decent food quality, though it's primarily a dinner venue adapting to breakfast service. 

The Terrace (Jumeirah Beach Hotel) offers beachfront views at resort prices. Hotel guests receive priority seating. 

The fine print: What every expat should know 

Timing:  

Weekend breakfast spots often require reservations or involve significant waits. Weekday service is generally more efficient. 

Location:  

DIFC, Dubai Marina, and mall locations offer convenience but expect higher prices and crowds. Older Dubai neighbourhoods often provide better value. 

Cultural Notes:  

During Ramadan, breakfast options are limited during daylight hours. Some traditional establishments may close entirely. 

Dubai's breakfast scene reflects its international character - extensive options with varying quality and significant price ranges. As with most things in the city, research and realistic expectations will serve you better than assumptions based on marketing materials.  

Finding your ideal home in Dubai goes beyond just schools and transport - it’s also about discovering the best local foodie spots. Contact Dacha today to explore properties in neighbourhoods that align with both your lifestyle and investment goals. 

This blog was originally published on 11/05/2023 and updated on 22/10/2025.