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Dubai Food Festival – what is it and when is it held?

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Food served at the table.

Are you planning a trip to Dubai and dreaming of unforgettable culinary experiences? Be sure to check out the Dubai Food Festival – one of the most important culinary events in Dubai. This dynamic food festival in Dubai is a real feast for the senses, bringing together foodies and top chefs from around the world every year. Wondering what the Dubai Food Festival is and when it takes place? You'll find all the answers in this article.

When is the Dubai Food Festival? Plan your trip!

If you're wondering when the Dubai Food Festival is, we have good news: it's an annual event that usually heats up the city in spring. The exact dates may vary, so it's always a good idea to check official sources before planning your trip to make sure you catch the Dubai food festival at its peak. Get ready for weeks of culinary discoveries, from exquisite tastings to street food festivals. It's worth planning your trip at this time of year to fully immerse yourself in the flavours of Dubai.

Dubai Food Festival Programme: what's in store for foodies?

Wondering what events await you at the Dubai Food Festival? The programme is extremely rich and varied. It's much more than just tastings – it's a real platform for culinary discoveries. You'll find interactive cooking demonstrations, inspiring culinary workshops and exclusive meetings with leading culinary stars.

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Dubai Food Festival – attractions you must experience

What attractions does the Dubai Food Festival offer? Get ready for a real grand culinary festival in Dubai that goes beyond the boundaries of traditional food fairs. The highlights of the programme include:
 

  • Dubai Restaurant Week: This is one of the most anticipated parts of the festival. For several days, selected restaurants at the Dubai Food Festival offer special, limited-edition menus at attractive prices. This is a great opportunity to try exquisite dishes at the city's top restaurants.
  • Pop-up restaurants and food trucks: Temporary restaurants and trendy food trucks pop up all over the city, especially in popular areas, offering innovative flavours and exotic combinations.
  • Cooking workshops and demonstrations: Chefs from around the world share their knowledge and skills during inspiring workshops and live demonstrations. This is a great opportunity to learn new cooking techniques and discover the secrets of the masters.
  • Beach Canteen: Often held on Jumeirah Beach, this casual and family-friendly culinary picnic brings together local culinary talents, offering snacks, main courses and sweets in a relaxed atmosphere.
     
A shared meal at the table.
Photo: pexels

Where does the Dubai Food Festival take place and is there an admission fee?

The festival does not have a single permanent location, but spreads throughout the city, using a variety of spaces – from luxury restaurants to parks and beaches. This makes Dubai's culinary attractions accessible in many places.

Is there an admission fee for the Dubai Food Festival? Admission to the Dubai Food Festival for some outdoor events may be free, but most shows, workshops and tastings in restaurants (e.g. during Dubai Restaurant Week) require advance booking and are subject to a fee. It is worth keeping an eye on the official festival website to stay up to date with prices and booking options.

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What will I find at the Dubai Food Festival? A festival of flavours in Dubai!

The Dubai Food Festival is an extraordinary showcase of culinary richness. During this event, you will open yourself up to the flavours of the world and taste dishes from every corner of the globe – from authentic Emirati dishes, through spicy Asian specialities and sophisticated European classics, to bold fusion combinations.

The list of restaurants participating in this event is extremely long and constantly changing. It includes both local gems and renowned international chains. Importantly, Michelin-starred restaurants from Dubai, such as Trèsind Studio (three Michelin stars), Il Ristorante – Niko Romito (two Michelin stars) and 11 Woodfire (one Michelin star), as well as Bib Gourmand-awarded restaurants. Their diversity guarantees that there is something for everyone, from fine dining to popular food trucks and hidden gems. This is one of the most important culinary events in the United Arab Emirates.

Street food festival.
Photo: pexels

Summary: Plan your culinary journey to Dubai!

The Dubai Food Festival is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Dubai's gastronomy. Whether you are a foodie, an amateur chef or simply looking for an unforgettable experience, this Dubai food festival is sure to bring you lots of joy – especially if you love to eat.

To plan your trip, visit our Two Continents website, where you'll find more guides and inspiration for accommodation in Dubai and beyond. Make your culinary journey unforgettable!

Questions and answers - FAQ

  • What is the Dubai Food Festival?

The Dubai Food Festival is an annual city-wide culinary event in Dubai that celebrates the diversity and creativity of the local and international food scene, offering tastings, workshops and special promotions.

  • Which restaurants participate in the Dubai Food Festival?

Hundreds of restaurants participate in the Dubai Food Festival, ranging from luxurious Michelin-starred establishments to popular food trucks and local gems. The festival includes both well-known international brands and local concepts, often as part of special events such as Dubai Restaurant Week.

  • Does the Dubai Food Festival take place every year?

Yes, it is a regular fixture in the calendar of the best events in Dubai in 2025 and beyond, attracting millions of visitors.