What makes a city unforgettable? Is it the rich history, the stunning landscapes, or perhaps the tantalizing food that leaves you craving more? Ajman, one of the smallest emirates in the UAE, proves that even a compact destination can offer a vast array of culinary delights. The food in Ajman is not just a reflection of its Emirati roots but a beautiful tapestry woven from various cultures. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, the culinary experiences here are nothing short of exceptional.
Food in Ajman: A Culinary Journey through Emirati Flavors
Food in Ajman is an amazing blend of tradition and modern influences. This charming emirate, known for its laid-back atmosphere, offers an incredible range of dishes inspired by Emirati heritage and multicultural influences from all over the world. Whether you are a fan of hearty breakfasts, love seafood, or have a soft spot for Chinese cuisine, Ajman is sure to satisfy your cravings. Food lovers visiting this emirate will find something for everyone, from traditional Emirati meals to delicious international cuisines, including seafood and Chinese food in Ajman. Let's dive into the best food in Ajman that you should not miss!
- Machboos
- Harees
- Samak Mashwi
- Kebabs
- Jasheed
- Falafel
- Luqaimat
- Shawarma
- Fattoush
- Umm Ali
1. Machboos
Have you ever tried Machboos? This aromatic rice dish is a staple in Emirati cuisine. Why is it so popular? It combines basmati rice with meat (like chicken or lamb) and a mix of spices, creating a comforting and flavorful meal. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, Machboos is often enjoyed as the best food in Ajman.
Restaurants Serving Machboos:
- The Grove Restaurant
Location: Al Ittihad St - Al Jerf 1 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 am to 1 am
- King's Grill
Location: Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi Street - Al Nakhil - Al Rumailah 1 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 7 am to 11 pm
- Al Boom Restaurant & Al Shaebi Kitchen
Location: 9FR6+Q9C - Al Naseem Street - Al Rashidiya 1 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 11 am to 11 pm
- Nusrat Biryani Restaurant
Location: 9GP2+9QR - Khartoum Street - Al Rawda 3 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 11 am to 3:30 am
2. Harees
Harees is a hearty breakfast in Ajman made from cracked wheat and meat cooked together until they form a smooth, porridge-like consistency. Traditionally prepared during Ramadan and festive occasions, Harees is a special treat in Ajman that locals cherish.
Restaurants Serving Harees:
- VegMe Restaurant - Al Ittihad Street
Location: AL JURF - Al Ittihad Street - Al Jerf Industrial 1 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 am to 12 am
- Food Express
Location: Al Rashidiya 3 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 6 am to 1 am
- Karakeeb Outlet - Ajman 1
Location: CC4J+XWV - Al Nakhil - Al Rumailah 1 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 am to 2 am
- Impero restaurant
Location: Al Rumailah - Al Rumailah 3 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 8am to 2am
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3. Samak Mashwi
If you love seafood, you must try Samak Mashwi! Why is this dish a favorite among locals? It features marinated fish grilled to perfection, resulting in a smoky, delicious flavor. As one of the top choices for seafood in Ajman, Samak Mashwi pairs wonderfully with rice or salad for a light yet satisfying meal.
Restaurants Serving Samak Mashwi
- Samak Al Bahar BBQ Fish Restaurant
Location: CC3X+W2Q - Badr Street - Al Bustan - Liwara 2 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 6 am to 1 am
- Pescado Sea Food Grills - Ajman
Location: Al Rumailah - Al Rumailah 2 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 12:30 pm to 12 am
- Al-Hamria Traditional Kitchen and Restaurant - Ajman
Location: opp. Ajman Fish Market,Ajman - Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum St - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 11 am to 1 am
- Fish world restaurant
Location: karama - Al Nakhil - Al Nakhil 2 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 7 am to 3:30 am
- Habak Al Sham Restaurant & Cafe
Location: Ajman cornish - Al Rumailah - Al Rumailah 2 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 am to 3 am
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4. Kebabs
Who doesn’t love kebabs? If you are visiting Ajman, trying these skewered delights is a must! Made from various meats, such as chicken or lamb, kebabs are seasoned with aromatic spices and grilled to perfection. They are incredibly popular among locals and visitors alike, making them a top choice for those exploring the things to do in Ajman.
Restaurants Serving Kebabs
- Al Kabab Al Afghani Ajman Branch
Location: 9FP4+MC5 kwait signal - Al Nuaimia Street - Al Nuaimia 1 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 11 am to 1 am
- Al Kebab Al Soori Restaurant
Location: King Faisal St - 2 Al Nuaimia - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 11 am to 2 am
- Qasr Al Kabab Cafeteria and restaurant
Location: Al Rashidiya 3 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 6 am to 12 am
- Kabab Jabal Arafat (Iranian)
Location: 9FWV+FRF - Al Rawda 3 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 am to 2 am
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5. Shawarma
Shawarma is a popular street food in the UAE, made with marinated meat, usually chicken or beef, cooked on a vertical rotisserie. It is served in flatbread with fresh vegetables and tasty sauce, making it a quick and delicious meal for both locals and tourists. When you explore the places to visit in the UAE, trying Shawarma is a must. It is a great way to enjoy the local flavors and experience the country’s culinary culture.
Restaurants Serving Shawarma
- Brosted Shawarma Alsham Restaurant
Location: Academic Street - Al Muwaihat 3 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 11 am to 3 am
- Halla Shawarma - Al Hamidiya 1
Location: 334 Sheikh Zayed St - Al Hamidiya 1 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 am to 2 am
- Al Farooj Al Shami
Location: Tower 5 Sheikh Rashid Bin Humeed St - Al Rashidiya 3 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 9 am to 3 am
- Tal Al Zaatar Resturant & Grill
Location: 9CRQ+M2V - 3 Al Nuaimia - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 7 am to 11:55 pm
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6. Falafel
Falafel is a fantastic option for vegetarian cuisine. These deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. A popular street food in Ajman, falafel can often be found in wraps or salads at various eateries throughout the city.
Restaurants Serving Falafel
- Souk Al FALAFEL
Location: Al Bustan - Liwara 1 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 8:30 am to 3 am
- Atyab Falafel Cafeteria
Location: Atyab Falafel - Falafel - Hafiz Ibrahim St - Al Nuaimia 1 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 7 am to 1:30 am
- Falafel Nation
Location: Al Zorah Beach - Al Zorah - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday, Open 24 hours
- Al Falafel Tazejeh Cafeteria & Rest
Location: Shop No 3 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 6 am to 12 am
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7. Luqaimat
What’s a meal without dessert? Luqaimat is one of the most popular desserts in Ajman and throughout the UAE. These sweet, fried dough balls are drizzled with date syrup and sesame seeds, offering a crunchy exterior and soft, fluffy interior. Luqaimat is typically served during festive occasions like Ramadan and Eid but is available year-round in Ajman.
Restaurants Serving Luqaimat
- Bait Al Raqi Ajman
Location: Ajman Industrial 1 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 9 am to 11 pm
- Al Luqaimat Cafeteria
Location: Al Rawda 2 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 4 pm to 12 am
- Al Ghawas - Ajman
Location: 190 S134 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 am to 12 am
- The Grove Restaurant
Location: Al Ittihad St - Al Jerf 1 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 am to 1 am
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8. Fattoush
Fattoush is a refreshing salad made from a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables, herbs, and crispy pita bread, all tossed in a tangy dressing. This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to get a healthy dose of veggies and can be a perfect side for any meal in Ajman, especially when enjoying places to visit in Ajman.
Restaurants Serving Fattoush
- Habak Al Sham Restaurant & Cafe
Location: Ajman cornish - Al Rumailah - Al Rumailah 2 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 8am to 3am
- Al Farooj Al Shami
Location: Tower 5 Sheikh Rashid Bin Humeed St - Al Rashidiya 3 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 9 am to 3 am
- Al Tarrase cafe and Restaurant
Location: Marsa - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 8 am to 2 am
- Hawa Beirut Restaurant
Location: 357 Sheikh Ammar Bin Humaid St - Al Hamidiya 1 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 am to 3 am
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9. Madrouba
Madrouba is a traditional dish popular in Ajman, prepared by cooking rice, chicken, and lentils slowly to form a delicious and hearty meal. Often spiced with local herbs and seasoned with dried lemon, Madrouba is a favorite comfort food among locals. It is often served in homes and restaurants, and it’s a dish you can’t leave Ajman without trying.
Restaurants Serving Madrouba
- Al Tarbouch Al Soory - Ajman
Location: Avino Mall - Shop#M1, Floor#1 - Al Rumailah 3 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 7 am to 2 am
- Taj al Arab Restaurant Ajman
Location: Al Jerf Industrial 1 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 6 am to 3 am
- Bab AlHara Restaurant
Location: Ajman One Towers, Khalifa bin Zayed street, opp Dubai Islmaic Bank - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 12 pm to 3 am
- Nanbans Restaurant
Location: Mohammed Salem Bu Khamis Street, Liwara 1 - Al Bustan - Al Butain - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 7 am to 11 pm
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10. Umm Ali
Looking for a perfect sweet treat? Umm Ali is a delicious bread pudding that feels like a warm hug! Made with layers of flaky pastry soaked in creamy milk and topped with nuts and raisins, it’s super comforting. This rich dessert is the best way to end your meal, especially after trying tasty dishes in Ajman. So, if you’re exploring places to visit in Ajman, don’t miss the chance to enjoy Umm Ali.
Restaurants Serving Umm Ali
- Um Ali Restaurant
Location: 5CP5+8QR - Al Warqa - Al Warqa 1 - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Mondat to Sunday: 8:30 am to 2 am
- Youm Alshai Cafeteria
Location: 9GM4+HQQ - Sheikh Ammar Bin Humaid St - Al Rawda 2 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 4 am to 2 am
- Al Alia restaurant
Location: 9HW8+VFM - Al Alia - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 7 am to 2 am
- Al Manil Restaurant
Location: 9FG8+RC6 - Ajman Industrial 2 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates
Open Hours: Monday to Sunday: 6:30 am to12 am
The food in Ajman is as diverse as its culture, offering both traditional Emirati dishes and international flavors. Whether you are visiting for a short stay or planning an extended trip, the culinary delights in Ajman should be part of your travel itinerary. From fresh seafood to hearty Emirati meals, there's something to please every palate. If you're planning a visit, consider including Ajman as part of your UAE tour package to experience its rich culinary heritage and charming local culture.
FAQs - Food in Ajman
Ajman has many wonderful attractions to see such as Ajman Museum, Ajman Beach, Al Zorah Nature Reserve, and Sheikh Zayed Mosque.
Seascape Restaurant is renowned for serving some of the best seafood in Ajman.
Yes, many restaurants in Ajman offer vegetarian options, such as Fattoush, Falafel, Umm Ali and other salads.
Yes, Ajman offers several unique food experiences, including traditional Emirati food tours and dining at beachside restaurants with fresh seafood.
Samak Mashwi (Grilled Fish) and Jasheed are must-try seafood dishes in Ajman, showcasing the freshness of local catches.
You can buy traditional Emirati clothing, spices, jewelry, oud (perfume), and handmade pottery.
Ajman offers a variety of food options catering to all budgets, from affordable street food and casual eateries to high-end restaurants.
Absolutely! Ajman offers a wide variety of culinary experiences, from traditional Emirati dishes to international cuisines such as Chinese, Indian, and Italian.
The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken, especially in hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers.
Popular desserts in Ajman include Luqaimat and Umm Ali. These desserts are often found in local bakeries and street vendors across the city.
