Popular Arabic sweets and desserts
Have you ever wanted to try traditional Arabic sweets but are unsure where to start? Thanks to their nutritional benefits, many sweet treats on our list are particularly prevalent during Ramadan but are not exclusive to the holy month. Yes, these beauties are consumed all year round. And with ingredients like pistachios, sugar syrup, almonds and fried dough, it’s easy to see why. So, let’s tuck into our tasty list of popular Arabic sweets and desserts without further ado.
Best Arabic Sweets in Dubai
A little background on the sweet treats will come in handy whether you want to learn how to make them or are simply looking to buy them from an Arabic sweet shop. So, here are all the details of the most sought-after Arabic sweets and their names.
Kunafa
Also referred to as Arabic kanafeh, this is arguably the most popular Arabic dessert in the UAE. This is too good to pass up if you are a cheese fan. Finding a traditional sweet store that serves it is easy after a quick search of “Arabic sweets near me” on Google.
Almost every traditional dessert store in the country offers kunafa. Its popularity isn’t surprising, considering it comprises a thick layer of white cheese with shredded wheat or vermicelli noodles. The treat is often soaked in rose-flavoured or plain syrup.
Baklawa
Baklawa originates from Turkey and is also a popular Arabic delicacy. It’s easy to see why. This Arabic sweet dish is made from delicious layers of filo pastry topped with syrup and filled with nuts. You may have spotted various types of baklawa beautifully arranged in gift boxes in sweet shops across the country.
Katayef
Qatayef or katayef is an Arabic sweet that is commonly served during the month of Ramadan. Some describe it as a folded pancake or dumpling with a filling of nuts or cream. The pastry may also be filled with pistachios, raisins, vanilla extract or unsalted cheese. Another way of serving it is with a filling of whipped cream with scented syrup.
Maamoul
Almost every Arabic dessert originally started as a recipe handed down for generations. Maamoul is a prime example. Also spelt as Ma’amoul, it is a butter-filled cookie made with semolina flour in a mould called labe. The dessert can be shaped like balls flattened or domed cookies, depending on preferences. These are also associated with Iftar meals during Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr.
Basbousa
Basbousa is a traditional Levantine cake eaten commonly during family meals. It is cooked in a pan and made with semolina batter. Once baked, it is served with powdered coconut. The most popular variations are soaked in sugary syrup or almonds. Usually cut in diamond-shaped pieces, it’s the perfect light bite at the end of a meal.
Halawet El Jibin
Made with rolls of sweet cheesy dough, Halawaet El Jibin is another one of many Arabic sweets that you can add to your Suhoor or dinner table in the UAE. It is also often accompanied by pistachios or rose petal jam and perfumed with rose water.
Awama
The Arabic name for this sweet translates to “floater” in English, specifically because it floats to the surface while being fried. Awama is a Levantine dessert consisting of dough balls that are fried until they are golden and crisp. They are then coated with a deliciously simple syrup. It’s utterly impossible to eat one!
This traditional Arabic sweet is also reasonably easy to make as it incorporates common kitchen ingredients like olive oil, active dry yeast, sugar and salt. All you have to do is buy pastry flour if you don’t have it already.
Sahlab
Sahlab, a creamy and inviting dessert, is a cherished tradition across many Arab nations. This delightful treat combines milk, sugar and aromatic spices, but its secret lies in the thickening agent: a starch derived from the Orchidaceae family’s root. Known as Salep, this root grants Sahlab its unique texture – a delightful balance between creamy and satisfyingly chewy.
The origins of this comforting dessert stretch back to ancient Egypt, suggesting a culinary journey spanning centuries. Today, Sahlab remains a beloved staple in Middle Eastern homes, particularly during the winter when its warmth offers a touch of comfort.
Umm Ali
Those who live in Dubai will probably be familiar with this item as it is served in most Arabic restaurants. Umm Ali is similar to bread pudding, which is popular in Western cultures. It uses sweetened croissants in a large dish with ingredients like coconut, diced dates or pistachios.
The pastry is often left to soak in a mix of cream, milk and sugar before it is baked. If you rather have it at home, you can accompany it with a traditional beverage. For options, you can always rely on the best places to buy Arabic coffee in Dubai.
FAQS
What is the most popular Arabic dessert?
Arabic cuisine boasts a delightful array of sweets, with Arabic Knafeh and Baklava reigning supreme as the most beloved desserts.
What are some other famous Arabic sweets and desserts?
Muhalabieh, Harissa, Kahk, and Luqaimat Arabic sweets are also famous for their distinct taste and a burst of sweetness in every bite.
Where to buy Arabic sweets in Dubai?
Arabic sweets are popularly consumed during Ramadan and Eid in Dubai. If you’d rather not make them yourself, you can buy Arabic sweets in Dubai from Firas Sweets and other shops. You can start with the best places for kunafa in Dubai.
Where to buy traditional Arabic desserts and sweets in Abu Dhabi?
Head to any of these excellent sweet shops in Abu Dhabi. If you are trying them for the first time, you can start with shops selling the best kunafa in Abu Dhabi.
That concludes our review of popular Arabic sweets names you can try in the UAE. From the delicate textures of baklava to the creamy richness of umm ali, Arabic desserts offer an unforgettable experience for any sweet tooth.
Dubai’s sweet tooth has met its match! From classic candies to decadent treats, the top candy shops in Dubai will satisfy any appetite.
Are you craving delectable Indian sweets in Dubai? Look no further! From melt-in-your-mouth gulab jamuns to intricately coiled jalebis, these treats offer the perfect finale to a traditional Indian feast.
