Dubai is a city famed for glittering skyscrapers, glamorous lifestyles, and high-profile restaurants where celebrities and influencers rub shoulders. Yet, beneath the obvious splendour lies a rich underbelly of secret dining spots — tucked-away treasures known only to the savviest locals and those willing to explore a little deeper. Welcome to our guide to Hidden Dining Gems in Dubai 2025, an insider’s map to the culinary experiences that most tourists (and even many residents) never discover.

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Why Dubai’s Hidden Restaurants Are the Real Stars in 2025

As Dubai’s dining scene matures, discerning diners are moving beyond Michelin-starred opulence and seeking authenticity, creativity, and intimacy. Hidden gems are precisely what 2025 brings to the fore, shaping a year where small, undiscovered venues gain cult followings, elevating the UAE’s gastronomic profile beyond the polished facades of mega-restaurants.

“The soul of a city lives in its hidden corners,” says food critic Farah Al Otaiba, *”and nowhere is this truer than in Dubai today.”

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1. Kinoya 2.0 (Al Safa)

A whisper of a place expanded discreetly from its original space in The Greens, Kinoya 2.0 in Al Safa offers an exclusive ramen and izakaya experience. Chef Neha Mishra continues her devotion to quality with an eight-seat counter serving omakase ramen that changes monthly, marking it as a hidden dining gem in Dubai.

• Must Try: Duck Tsukemen
• Setting: Intimate, minimalist Japanese
• Tip: Reservations are now lottery-based due to high demand.

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2. Hoof Cafe Secret Supper Club (Alserkal Avenue)

Hoof has long been known among Emirati coffee aficionados, but in 2025, they unveiled a “members-only” supper club in the back of their Alserkal location. These hidden dining gems focus on fire-based cooking, with dishes rotating weekly.

• Must Try: Charred lamb belly with Emirati spice rub
• Setting: Industrial chic with an intimate vibe
• Tip: Gain access by asking the barista the secret code word.

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3. Somewhere (Jumeirah 3, Beach Road)

From the outside, Somewhere looks like a lifestyle boutique. Hidden inside is a dining oasis offering new-age takes on traditional Levantine dishes, one of the many hidden gems Dubai has to offer.

• Must Try: Saffron tahini chicken
• Setting: Enchanted garden meets urban cool
• Tip: Ask for a table near the “moon wall” for Instagrammable moments.

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4. Ostro Hidden Deli (Business Bay)

A small door next to an art gallery opens into Ostro Hidden Deli, where chef-owner Ali Kazmi serves Mediterranean-inspired deli dishes made with organic local produce, truly establishing it as a hidden dining gem in Dubai.

• Must Try: Tomato confit and burrata tartine
• Setting: Cosy, rustic European
• Tip: Check the chalkboard for daily specials not listed on the menu.

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5. Eleven Green (Al Wasl Road)

Already a cult-favourite for its burger shop, Eleven Green introduced “The Back Room” — an ultra-limited menu gastro-lounge where foodies gather over hand-ground wagyu burgers and experimental sides. It’s just another example of Dubai’s hidden dining offerings.

• Must Try: Truffle grilled cheese burger
• Setting: Neon-lit, exclusive speakeasy
• Tip: Access is by pre-booking a table through a secret QR code distributed only to prior customers.

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6. Tresind Studio’s Private Kitchen (Bluewaters Island)

The famous Tresind Studio needs little introduction, but its 2025 secret offering — a twelve-person private kitchen experience hidden inside the main restaurant — is one of Dubai’s hidden dining gems, making it a sought-after culinary escapade.

• Must Try: The chef’s evolving tasting menu
• Setting: Luxe minimalism
• Tip: Only available for bookings made six months in advance.

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The Future of Hidden Dining in Dubai

As Dubai matures into a global cultural capital, hidden dining gems are leading the way for culinary innovation. These secret spots offer more than great food; they create community, foster loyalty, and serve up genuine experiences far removed from the polished surfaces the city is often known for. Hidden dining gems in Dubai are truly redefining the culinary landscape.

Expect to see more underground supper clubs, word-of-mouth-only events, and dining experiences blending food, art, and music into one sensory journey.

“Dubai’s hidden dining scene is not just thriving — it’s defining the next decade of how we eat and connect,” says Emirati restaurateur Khalid Al Huraimel.

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Final Thoughts

Dubai’s hidden dining gems are no longer just “cool places to find if you’re lucky.” They are the very heart of the city’s new culinary revolution. Whether you’re a resident or visitor, seek out these treasures — and when you find them, remember: the real luxury is sometimes the thrill of the search, especially among the hidden dining gems in Dubai.

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Dubai is a city that constantly evolves, offering a plethora of activities that cater to diverse interests. Whether you are a food enthusiast, adventure seeker, or culture lover, Dubai has something for everyone. This guide will take you through 106 amazing things to do in Dubai in 2025, from exquisite dining experiences to unique adventures and cultural highlights.

Exquisite Dining Experiences

1. La Dame de Pic Dubai: Located at The Link in One&Only Zabeel, this restaurant by chef Anne-Sophie Pic offers an avant-garde approach to French cuisine.
2. Ossiano: Enjoy underwater dining at Atlantis The Palm with views of the aquarium.
3. SushiSamba: Located on the 51st floor of The Palm Tower, it offers a fusion of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisine with stunning views.
4. At.mosphere: Experience fine dining on the 122nd floor of Burj Khalifa.
5. Carnival by Trèsind: Known for its innovative dishes and playful décor in the Burj Daman Building, DIFC.
6. Time Out Market Dubai: Located in Souk Al Bahar, this foodie paradise features 17 food vendors and three bars.
7. Friends’ Avenue Café: A vibrant spot in JLT known for its creative breakfast options.
8. Tom & Serg: An industrial-chic café in Al Quoz offering hearty breakfast dishes.
9. Baker & Spice: An artisanal café in Souk Al Bahar focusing on locally sourced ingredients.
10. Armani/Ristorante: Located in the Armani Hotel Dubai, offering an elegant breakfast menu inspired by Italian cuisine.
11. Pierchic: A romantic seafood restaurant at the end of a pier at Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah.
12. COYA: A Peruvian restaurant in Four Seasons Resort, offering vibrant flavours and a lively atmosphere.
13. La Petite Maison: A French Mediterranean restaurant in DIFC known for its light, fresh dishes.
14. Nobu: Located at Atlantis The Palm, offering a fusion of traditional Japanese cuisine with South American ingredients.
15. Zuma: A contemporary Japanese izakaya-style restaurant in DIFC.

Unique Adventures

16. Dinner in the Sky: Dine at a table suspended 50 metres in the air at Skydive Dubai.
17. Skydive Dubai: Experience skydiving over The Palm Jumeirah.
18. XLine Dubai Marina: Enjoy the world’s longest urban zipline.
19. Hot Air Balloon Ride: Fly over the desert with Balloon Adventures Dubai.
20. Seawings Seaplane Tour: Take a seaplane tour for aerial views of Dubai’s iconic landmarks.
21. The Dubai Fountain: Watch the spectacular water, music, and light show at the Burj Khalifa Lake.
22. Dubai Miracle Garden: Explore the world’s largest natural flower garden.
23. IMG Worlds of Adventure: Visit the world’s largest indoor theme park.
24. Dubai Parks and Resorts: Home to Motiongate, Bollywood Parks, and LEGOLAND.
25. Ski Dubai: Enjoy indoor skiing and snowboarding at the Mall of the Emirates.
26. Aquaventure Waterpark: Thrill at the water rides and marine attractions at Atlantis The Palm.
27. The Lost Chambers Aquarium: Discover marine life in Atlantis The Palm.
28. Dubai Ice Rink: Skate at the Olympic-sized rink in The Dubai Mall.
29. VR Park: Experience virtual reality adventures in The Dubai Mall.
30. Global Village: Explore cultures from around the world at this seasonal theme park.

Cultural Highlights

31. Dubai Opera: Attend world-class performances in the heart of Downtown Dubai.
32. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood: Wander through Dubai’s heritage area and visit the Dubai Museum.
33. Jumeirah Mosque: Take a tour to learn about Islamic culture and religion.
34. Etihad Museum: Learn about the history of the UAE’s formation.
35. Dubai Frame: Experience the city’s past, present, and future from this iconic structure.
36. Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding: Engage in cultural exchange and understanding programs.
37. Alserkal Avenue: Explore contemporary art galleries and creative spaces in Al Quoz.
38. Dubai Design District (d3): Discover innovative design and art installations.
39. Dubai International Film Festival: Attend screenings and events celebrating international cinema.
40. Madinat Jumeirah: Stroll through the traditional Arabian market and waterways.
41. Souk Madinat Jumeirah: Shop for traditional crafts and souvenirs.
42. Gold Souk: Visit the traditional market in Deira for gold and jewellery.
43. Spice Souk: Explore the aromatic spices in Deira.
44. Textile Souk: Shop for fabrics and textiles in Bur Dubai.
45. Dubai Creek: Take an abra ride along the historic waterway.
46. Hatta Heritage Village: Learn about traditional Emirati life in this restored village.
47. Quranic Park: Explore Islamic heritage and culture in this educational park.
48. Love Lake: Visit the heart-shaped lakes in Al Qudra for a romantic outing.
49. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary: Watch flamingos and other wildlife in this protected area.

Luxurious Experiences

50. The Dubai Mall: Shop at one of the largest malls in the world.
51. Mall of the Emirates: Enjoy luxury shopping and indoor skiing.
52. City Walk: Explore the outdoor retail and dining destination.
53. La Mer: Relax at the beachfront destination with shops and restaurants.
54. Bluewaters Island: Visit the home of Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel.
55. The Pointe: Dine and shop at this waterfront destination on The Palm Jumeirah.
56. Dubai Marina: Stroll along the waterfront and dine at upscale restaurants.
57. JBR Beach: Enjoy the beach, dining, and entertainment at Jumeirah Beach Residence.
58. Palm West Beach: Relax at the beach clubs and restaurants along Palm Jumeirah.
59. Zero Gravity: Spend a day at this beach club and restaurant with an infinity pool.
60. Nikki Beach: Enjoy the luxury beach club experience.
61. Jet Skiing: Ride along the coast with views of iconic landmarks.
62. Yacht Charter: Sail along Dubai’s coastline on a private yacht.
63. Desert Safari: Experience dune bashing, camel riding, and a Bedouin camp dinner.
64. Luxury Spa Day: Indulge in a spa day at one of Dubai’s top hotels.
65. Golf: Play at one of Dubai’s world-class golf courses.
66. Polo: Watch a match at Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club.
67. Horse Racing: Attend the Dubai World Cup at Meydan Racecourse.
68. Falconry: Learn about the traditional sport at a desert resort.

Family-Friendly Activities

69. Kidzania: Let children role-play in a mini city at The Dubai Mall.
70. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: Explore marine life at The Dubai Mall.
71. Green Planet: Discover the indoor rainforest at City Walk.
72. Dubai Butterfly Garden: Visit the largest covered butterfly garden in the world.
73. LEGOLAND Dubai: Enjoy rides and attractions at Dubai Parks and Resorts.
74. Motiongate Dubai: Experience Hollywood-themed rides at Dubai Parks and Resorts.
75. Bollywood Parks: Enjoy Bollywood-themed attractions at Dubai Parks and Resorts.
76. Dubai Dolphinarium: Watch dolphin and seal shows.
77. Dubai Safari Park: Explore wildlife in themed sections.
78. Al Marmoom Camel Race Track: Watch camel races in the desert.
79. Dubai Kartdrome: Go karting at the indoor and outdoor tracks.
80. Adventure Zone: Enjoy indoor adventure activities at Galleria Mall.
81. Bounce Dubai: Experience trampoline fun at this indoor park.
82. Splash ‘n’ Party: Take the kids to this waterpark designed for children.
83. Aquaventure Waterpark: Thrill at the rides and marine attractions at Atlantis The Palm.
84. Wild Wadi Waterpark: Enjoy water rides with views of the Burj Al Arab.
85. Laguna Waterpark: Experience water slides and a lazy river at La Mer.

And the others?

69. The Green Planet: This biodome at City Walk brings the rainforest to Dubai, offering an immersive experience with exotic plants and animals. It’s a fantastic educational outing for families.
70. Dubai Dolphinarium: Located in Creek Park, the dolphinarium features live shows with dolphins and seals, offering both entertainment and education.
71. Dubai Creek Park: One of the largest parks in Dubai, it features cable car rides, boat rentals, and extensive play areas, making it perfect for a family day out.
72. Dubai Butterfly Garden: Located in Dubai Miracle Garden, this attraction is the largest covered butterfly garden in the world, housing thousands of butterflies.
73. Dubai Ice Rink: Found in The Dubai Mall, this Olympic-sized ice rink offers skating sessions, coaching, and ice hockey matches, providing fun for all ages.

Nightlife and Entertainment

86. White Dubai: Party at one of the city’s top nightclubs.
87. Soho Garden: Enjoy a night out at this eclectic venue in Meydan.
88. Cavalli Club: Experience luxury nightlife at Fairmont Dubai.
89. Billionaire Mansion: Dine and party at this lavish venue.
90. Base Dubai: Enjoy the nightlife scene at this open-air venue.
91. Cirque Le Soir: Experience circus-themed nightlife.
92. Armani/Privé: Dance the night away at this stylish nightclub in the Burj Khalifa.
93. The Irish Village: Enjoy live music and a relaxed atmosphere.
94. McGettigan’s: Visit this popular Irish pub for live music and sports.
95. Jazz@PizzaExpress: Enjoy live jazz and pizza
96. The Penthouse at FIVE Palm Jumeirah: This rooftop bar offers stunning views of the Dubai skyline and a vibrant atmosphere with live DJs.
97. Zero Gravity: Located near Skydive Dubai, this beach club transforms into a nightclub at night, offering a unique beachside party experience.
98. Nikki Beach Dubai: This luxurious beach club features a pool, music, and an extensive menu, perfect for a day of relaxation and evening entertainment.
99. Lock, Stock & Barrel: Known for its lively atmosphere, this bar offers live music, sports screenings, and an extensive food and drinks menu.
100. Q’s Bar and Lounge: Located in Palazzo Versace Dubai, this intimate jazz club features performances by world-class musicians curated by legendary producer Quincy Jones.

Outdoor Activities

106. Jebel Jais: The highest peak in the UAE offers thrilling activities like the Jebel Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline, and hiking trails with breathtaking views.

Conclusion

Dubai’s diverse and vibrant offerings ensure that 2024 will be an exciting year for residents and visitors alike. From culinary delights and unique adventures to cultural experiences and vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. This comprehensive guide to 106 amazing things to do in Dubai in 2024 will help you explore the best that the city has to offer.

Stay tuned to ‘Whats Hot in UAE‘ for more updates on events and lifestyle trends in the region.

The UAE is renowned for its luxurious lifestyle and vibrant culinary scene. Recently, the nation has also become a pioneer in promoting sustainable dining practices. With an increasing focus on sourcing local and organic ingredients and adopting eco-friendly practices, restaurants across the UAE are setting new standards in sustainability. This article delves into the rising trend of sustainable dining in the UAE, highlighting notable establishments, their initiatives, and the broader impact on the culinary landscape.

The Rise of Sustainable Dining

As global awareness of environmental issues grows, the demand for sustainable dining options has surged. In the UAE, this shift is evident as more restaurants commit to reducing their environmental footprint. The emphasis is on locally sourced, organic ingredients and practices that minimise waste and conserve resources.

Key Sustainable Restaurants in the UAE

**1. Boca, Dubai

Located in DIFC, Boca is a pioneer in sustainable dining. The restaurant emphasises Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Boca collaborates with local farmers and fishermen to ensure that their menu is not only fresh but also supports local agriculture and fisheries. They have also implemented a comprehensive waste management system, aiming to reduce food waste through composting and recycling.

**2. Wild & The Moon, Dubai

Wild & The Moon, with multiple locations in Dubai, is a plant-based café that prioritises sustainability. The café uses organic, locally sourced ingredients to create nutritious and eco-friendly dishes. Their commitment extends beyond food; they use biodegradable packaging and have eliminated single-use plastics. The café also promotes a zero-waste philosophy, encouraging customers to bring their own containers.

**3. Farmhouse, Ras Al Khaimah

Situated within the Ritz-Carlton Al Wadi Desert, Farmhouse is dedicated to sustainable dining. The restaurant sources ingredients from its on-site organic farm and other local producers. Farmhouse focuses on reducing its carbon footprint by utilising renewable energy sources and implementing water conservation practices. Their farm-to-table approach ensures that guests enjoy fresh, seasonal produce with minimal environmental impact.

**4. One Life Kitchen & Café, Dubai

One Life Kitchen & Café in Dubai Design District (d3) integrates sustainability into every aspect of its operations. The café sources organic produce from local farms and follows sustainable practices such as composting and recycling. They also support local artisans by featuring homegrown products and eco-friendly merchandise in their café store.

**5. LOWE, Dubai

LOWE, located in Al Barari, Dubai, is known for its innovative approach to sustainable dining. The restaurant offers a seasonal menu that highlights locally sourced ingredients. LOWE’s chefs are committed to reducing food waste by creating inventive dishes using every part of the ingredient. The restaurant also engages in sustainable sourcing practices, ensuring that their seafood is sustainably caught and their meat is ethically sourced.

Sustainable Practices in UAE Restaurants

The sustainable dining movement in the UAE has several key practices:

**1. Sourcing Local and Organic Ingredients

By sourcing locally, restaurants reduce their carbon footprint and support local economies. Organic farming practices also ensure that the ingredients are free from harmful pesticides and chemicals, promoting health and environmental benefits.

**2. Waste Reduction

Many restaurants are adopting waste reduction strategies, such as composting food scraps, recycling, and upcycling. These practices help minimise the environmental impact of food waste and promote a circular economy.

**3. Eco-Friendly Packaging

Eliminating single-use plastics and opting for biodegradable or reusable packaging is a significant step towards sustainability. Restaurants are increasingly using materials like paper, bamboo, and compostable plastics to package their food.

**4. Energy and Water Conservation

Sustainable restaurants are implementing energy-efficient appliances and water-saving technologies. Renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, are also being utilised to reduce dependence on non-renewable energy.

**5. Education and Community Engagement

Educating staff and customers about sustainable practices is crucial for fostering a culture of sustainability. Many restaurants host workshops, events, and campaigns to raise awareness about environmental issues and encourage sustainable habits.

Impact on the Culinary Landscape

The shift towards sustainable dining in the UAE is transforming the culinary landscape. It encourages chefs and restaurateurs to innovate and create dishes that are not only delicious but also environmentally friendly. This movement also aligns with the UAE’s broader goals of sustainability and environmental conservation, as outlined in initiatives like the UAE Vision 2021 and the UAE Green Agenda.

Testimonials from Eco-Conscious Diners

Sarah Al Mansoori, a Dubai-based environmental activist, says, “Dining at sustainable restaurants like Boca and Wild & The Moon makes me feel good about my choices. It’s reassuring to know that my meals are not only healthy but also have a minimal environmental impact.”

Omar Bin Hadi, a frequent visitor to Farmhouse, adds, “The farm-to-table experience at Farmhouse is unparalleled. Knowing that the ingredients are fresh and locally sourced enhances the dining experience. It’s a perfect blend of luxury and sustainability.”