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Dubai

Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe in Dubai Festival City is renowned for its authentic Emirati cuisine and immersive 1960s Dubai ambiance. Patrons frequently commend the restaurant for its delicious traditional dishes, attentive service, and nostalgic setting. The establishment offers a variety of Emirati specialties, including Machboos Laham (a rice and slow-cooked meat dish), Grilled Sea Bream, and the Arabic Breakfast Tray. The interior decor features traditional wind tower designs, vintage lanterns, and life-size Bedouin statues, enhancing the cultural experience. Many visitors appreciate the outdoor seating area with views of the Dubai Creek and the 'Imagine' multimedia show. The staff is often praised for their hospitality and knowledge of the menu. Overall, Al Fanar provides a memorable dining experience that transports guests back in time while offering a taste of authentic Emirati flavors.

Experience authentic Emirati flavors at Al Fanar Dubai Festival City Mall restaurant and cafe.

Nestled in the vibrant Dubai Festival City Mall, Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe offers a truly immersive dining experience that celebrates traditional Emirati cuisine and culture. Step inside to a warmly rustic interior styled to evoke Dubai in the 1960s, complete with vintage lanterns, traditional wind tower motifs, and life-size Bedouin statues that tell stories of the past. This unique setting perfectly complements a menu bursting with authentic local flavors and fresh ingredients.

Savor authentic Emirati dishes and cozy ambiance

Al Fanar’s menu delights guests with traditional specialties such as Machboos Laham, a flavorful rice and slow-cooked meat dish, succulent Grilled Sea Bream, and the authentic Arabic Breakfast Tray. Every dish is prepared to perfection, bursting with the rich, aromatic spices beloved in Emirati cuisine. The restaurant also caters to vegetarians and offers freshly brewed black tea with mint—a perfect finish to your meal.

Guests consistently praise the fresh ingredients, the balanced flavors, and the impeccable service. Attentive staff like Praveen and Abdul Rahim are known for their friendly, professional hospitality and expert recommendations that enhance every dining experience.

Enjoy scenic outdoor seating and convenient amenities

Al Fanar offers inviting outdoor seating with stunning views of the Dubai Creek and the captivating 'Imagine' multimedia show, making it ideal for leisurely lunches or relaxed dinners. Families and groups feel right at home, thanks to a child-friendly environment and ample space. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible and provides free and paid parking options for added convenience.

Whether you’re a foodie eager to explore Emirati heritage or a traveler seeking a memorable cultural dining experience in Dubai, Al Fanar in Dubai Festival City Mall is a must-visit destination.

Frequently asked questions about Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe

What are the operating hours of Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe in Dubai Festival City?

 Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe operates daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Is Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe wheelchair accessible?

 Yes, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort for all guests.

 Yes, Al Fanar provides outdoor seating with views of the Dubai Creek and the 'Imagine' multimedia show.

Is there parking available at Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe?

 Yes, the restaurant offers parking facilities, including validated parking for diners.

 Yes, Al Fanar accepts various credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.

Asia

United Arab Emirates

Nestled in the vibrant Dubai Festival City Mall, Al Fanar Restaurant offers a delightful journey into the heart of Emirati cuisine. With its rustic decor reminiscent of 1960s Dubai, this establishment invites you to experience traditional dishes crafted with love and authenticity. The ambiance is warm and welcoming, making it an ideal spot for families, friends, and food enthusiasts alike.

At Al Fanar, every dish tells a story. Start your meal with the Jarjeer Mango Salad, a refreshing blend of peppery arugula and sweet mango, drizzled with a tangy dressing that awakens the senses. For the main course, indulge in the Lamb Biryani, a fragrant dish that boasts tender meat and perfectly cooked rice, infused with spices that transport you straight to the heart of the Emirates.


- **Lamb Biryani**: A fragrant rice dish with tender lamb and aromatic spices.
- **Jarjeer Mango Salad**: A refreshing salad combining arugula and sweet mango.

Behind the scenes, the chefs at Al Fanar are dedicated to preserving the essence of Emirati cooking, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This commitment to authenticity is evident in every bite, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the rich culinary heritage of the UAE.

Conveniently located on the ground floor of Dubai Festival City Mall, Al Fanar is surrounded by a plethora of shopping and entertainment options. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along the Canal Walk or explore the nearby attractions, including the iconic Dubai Mall and the breathtaking Burj Khalifa.


Al Fanar is celebrated for its authentic Emirati dishes and warm, inviting atmosphere.


To savor traditional Emirati cuisine in a beautiful setting that reflects the rich heritage of the UAE.


Al Fanar is close to the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa, making it a perfect stop after a day of exploring.


Yes, Al Fanar offers outdoor seating for guests who wish to enjoy their meals al fresco.

Whether you're a local or a traveler, Al Fanar Restaurant promises an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the rich flavors of Emirati cuisine. Come and enjoy a meal that is not just food, but a taste of tradition. We look forward to welcoming you soon!

Traditional Emirati cooking offered in a stylish, rustic interior evoking Dubai in the 1960s.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfblo3X1pnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJad3dmXtdXz4RZMX_GHSG81k/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfblo3X1pnEAE

. The food here is absolutely delicious! Each dish is bursting with flavor, from the perfectly seasoned savory bites to the sweet, irresistible desserts. The ingredients are fresh, and everything is cooked to perfection. Whether you’re enjoying a hearty meal or a light snack, every bite is a treat for the taste buds. Special thanks to Praveen he  was exceptional—attentive, friendly, and professional. He anticipated our needs without being intrusive, offered great recommendations, and made sure we were well taken care of throughout the meal. Their positive attitude and excellent service made the dining experience truly enjoyable.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfeC1DcmVREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJad3dmXtdXz4RZMX_GHSG81k/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfeC1DcmVREAE

I visited Al Fanar Restaurant for lunch, and it was a wonderful experience. The atmosphere was cozy and warm, and the staff was very friendly. The food was delicious, especially the traditional dishes that reflect Emirati heritage. I will definitely return to enjoy this beautiful place

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQcTdxc25RRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJad3dmXtdXz4RZMX_GHSG81k/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQcTdxc25RRRAB

This chain restaurant was recommended by a friend residing in Dubai, we came to the outlet at Dubai Festival City Mall as it was nearer to our hotel. Weekday dinner was quiet.
Service provided by Abdul Rahim was awesome, he was attentive and provided good advice on our orders.
Food tasted very good. Overall an enjoyable dinner experience.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQbXBQOGl3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJad3dmXtdXz4RZMX_GHSG81k/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQbXBQOGl3RRAB

Fantastic Experience at Al Fanar Dubai festival city mall.

We visited the Al Fanar restaurant , and it was an incredible experience! The food was exceptionally fresh and skillfully prepared.

The friendly and attentive staff made us feel welcome and enhanced the overall experience, (the waiter, PRAVEEN, was very patient and attentive. He recommended the best tea and dessert)

The pricing was reasonable, especially considering the quality of the food and service. We would happily return and highly recommend this restaurant to anyone who loves emirates food in a delightful and authentic setting.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmZ1llSGFnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJad3dmXtdXz4RZMX_GHSG81k/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmZ1llSGFnEAE

Abdul Rahim took great care of us . We orders the jarjeer mango salad, Adas soup, lamb biryani and fish biryani. Everything was delicious and fresh. For dessert we had the firni, a delicate rice pudding . We finished our meal with freshly brewed black tea with mint.

Authentic Emirati Dining at Al Fanar, Dubai Festival City

Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe was established in 2011 as the first Emirati restaurant in Dubai, aiming to showcase the rich cultural heritage and exquisite cuisine of the Emirates. The restaurant's name, 'Al Fanar,' translates to 'lantern' in Arabic, symbolizing guidance and cultural richness. The interior design reflects the Dubai of the 1960s, featuring traditional wind tower designs, vintage lanterns, and life-size Bedouin statues, providing an immersive dining experience that transports guests back in time.

Al fanar restaurant and cafe history overview in dubai festival city mall, united arab emirates.

Nestled in the vibrant Dubai Festival City Mall, Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe stands as a shining beacon of Emirati heritage and culture. Founded in 2011, it proudly holds the distinction of being the first Emirati restaurant in Dubai dedicated to showcasing the rich culinary traditions and cultural legacy of the United Arab Emirates. The name 

 means “lantern” in Arabic, symbolizing guidance and cultural illumination, setting the tone for an immersive dining experience that transports visitors back to the Dubai of the 1960s.

A window into 1960s dubai through design and ambiance

From the moment you step inside Al Fanar, the nostalgic charm of old Dubai envelops you. The interior pays homage to the city’s past with an elegant rustic design inspired by traditional wind tower architecture—a hallmark of Emirati homes from that era. Vintage lanterns cast a warm, inviting glow, while life-size Bedouin statues add authenticity and storytelling to the atmosphere. This thoughtful decor not only creates a cozy and inviting setting but also educates diners about Dubai’s historic lifestyle and cultural values.

Al Fanar is more than a restaurant; it is a culinary sanctuary where traditional Emirati dishes are skillfully prepared using fresh, authentic ingredients. Each plate presents a burst of bold, savory flavors and carefully crafted sweetness that honors Emirati recipes passed down through generations. Whether you are enjoying hearty meals like lamb biryani and Adas soup or delicate desserts such as firni rice pudding, every bite offers a genuine taste of the Emirates’ rich food culture.

Why al fanar remains a must-visit experience

 that recreates the ambiance of 1960s Dubai with traditional decor elements.

 embodied by the name “Al Fanar” symbolizing guidance and heritage.

 featuring traditional recipes prepared with fresh ingredients for a genuine taste experience.

 with attentive service that enhances the inviting and cozy dining atmosphere.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Outdoor Seating

Al Fanar offers traditional Emirati cooking in a stylish, rustic interior that evokes the charm of Dubai in the 1960s. Located in Dubai Festival City Mall, it provides a vibrant atmosphere and a taste of Emirati heritage.

Al Fanar

Good for Groups

Good for Children

Serves Breakfast

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Serves Coffee

Live Music

Allows Dogs

Experience the rich flavors of traditional Emirati dishes crafted with age-old recipes and fresh local ingredients.

Machboos Laham

Grilled Sea Bream

Arabic Breakfast Tray

Luqaimat

Authentic Emirati Cuisine

Authentic Emirati cuisine at Al Fanar Dubai Festival City

Delve into the rich flavors of traditional Emirati dishes at Al Fanar, nestled in the vibrant Dubai Festival City Mall. This restaurant offers a culinary journey that honors authentic recipes and fresh, local ingredients, evoking the charm of Dubai in the 1960s with its rustic yet stylish ambiance. Whether you’re a foodie craving heritage tastes or a traveler seeking genuine Middle Eastern flavors, Al Fanar’s menu promises a memorable dining experience.

Begin your meal with the vibrant Arabic Breakfast Tray, a delightful assortment featuring shakshouka, creamy labneh, savory foul, khabisah, and freshly baked Arabic bread. This starter captures the essence of Emirati mornings, balancing comforting textures and bold flavors.

Savor the heart of Emirati cooking with the Machboos Laham, where fragrant rice is combined with slow-cooked, tender meat infused with traditional spices, offering a harmonious blend of aromas and textures. For seafood lovers, the Grilled Sea Bream is a standout choice — fresh sea bream grilled to perfection with olive oil, garlic, and a hint of zesty lemon, delivering a light yet flavorful dish that celebrates the Gulf’s bounty.

Indulge your sweet tooth with Luqaimat, traditional Emirati dumplings made from a delicate blend of flour and yeast, deep-fried to a golden crisp, and infused with aromatic saffron and cardamom. These bite-sized delights are drizzled with syrup, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and fragrant spice to round off your meal.

Complement your dining experience with freshly brewed black tea infused with mint, a classic Emirati refreshment praised for its soothing qualities and perfect harmony with both savory and sweet dishes. Al Fanar also offers a selection of vegetarian options, making it an inclusive destination for diverse palates seeking authentic regional flavors in a cozy and friendly setting.

 Arabic Breakfast Tray with shakshouka, foul, khabisah, Arabic bread, and labneh.

 Machboos Laham featuring spiced slow-cooked meat with rice; Grilled Sea Bream with olive oil, garlic, and lemon.

 Luqaimat, fragrant dumplings with saffron and cardamom syrup.

 Fresh black tea with mint, perfect for pairing with any dish.

Indulge in authentic Emirati flavors at Al Fanar in Dubai Festival City. Experience culinary delights amidst stunning views! Visit us today!

Al Fanar: Authentic Emirati Cafe in Dubai Festival City

Dubai Municipality

A traditional Emirati breakfast featuring shakshouka, foul, khabisah, Arabic bread, and labneh.

Breakfast Tray

A hearty dish of rice and slow-cooked meat infused with aromatic spices.

Fresh sea bream grilled to perfection with olive oil, garlic, and lemon.

Sweet dumplings drizzled with date syrup and sprinkled with sesame seeds.

Discover authentic Emirati flavors at Al Fanar Dubai Festival City Mall 

Nestled in the vibrant Dubai Festival City Mall, Al Fanar offers a culinary journey back to the 1960s with traditional Emirati cuisine served in a rustic yet stylish setting. This restaurant is a must-visit for food lovers eager to experience the rich heritage and aromatic flavors of the United Arab Emirates, all in a cozy atmosphere that feels like a warm cultural embrace.

A menu that celebrates Emirati culinary heritage

Al Fanar's menu showcases classic dishes crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients and authentic spices. Whether you're starting your day or enjoying a hearty dinner, there's something delightful for every palate. Highlights include the Breakfast Tray, a traditional Emirati morning feast featuring shakshouka, foul, khabisah, Arabic bread, and creamy labneh, all for just 40 AED.

 A hearty rice and slow-cooked meat dish infused with aromatic spices, priced at 50 AED.

 Fresh sea bream grilled to perfection with olive oil, garlic, and lemon for 60 AED.

 Sweet dumplings drizzled with date syrup and sprinkled with sesame seeds, a perfect dessert at just 20 AED.

Exceptional service and a welcoming atmosphere

Guests consistently praise Al Fanar for its attentive and friendly staff who make every visit special. Servers like Praveen and Abdul Rahim provide excellent recommendations and ensure a smooth dining experience without ever being intrusive. The warm ambiance, enhanced by authentic decor reflecting Dubai in the 1960s, invites groups, families, and solo diners to relax and savor every bite.

Convenience and amenities for every guest

Located on the ground floor near P.F. Chang's in Dubai Festival City Mall, Al Fanar offers easy access with ample parking options including free and paid lots and street parking. The restaurant welcomes children and groups, and you can enjoy your meal indoors or at their inviting outdoor seating. Payment is hassle-free with NFC, credit, and debit card acceptance, and they also provide takeout and delivery services for your convenience.

Experience the rich flavors of traditional Emirati dishes at Al Fanar. Dive into a cultural journey with wonderful dining amidst charming 1960s decor!

Savor Authentic Emirati Cuisine at Al Fanar, Dubai

Planning to visit Al Fanar? Discover essential tips for an unforgettable meal. Enjoy authentic Emirati food and cozy ambiance in Dubai!

Top Tips for Dining at Al Fanar, Dubai Festival City

Founded in 2011, Al Fanar showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Emirates. Discover its history and authentic dining experience in Dubai!

Authentic Emirati Dining at Al Fanar, Dubai Festival City

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