As the old saying goes, ‘Happiness is sweet and best when shared.’ In Dubai, nothing embodies that more than a tray of warm kunafa, served fresh and enjoyed with family or friends.
Whether you’re a visitor hunting for a new food experience or a longtime resident craving comfort, Dubai has plenty of spots where kunafa is made just right. From family-owned bakeries tucked away in Deira to modern restaurants serving Turkish-style kunefe with ice cream, the city is a true kunafa paradise.
This guide takes you through some of the best places to try kunafa in Dubai, each offering its own twist on this iconic treat.
What Makes Kunafa Special?
Kunafa, also spelled kanafeh, traces its roots to the Levant region, especially Palestine, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. Over centuries, it has become more than just a dessert; it’s a symbol of hospitality and celebration.
What makes it so irresistible is the balance of textures and flavors. The thin, shredded pastry is baked to a golden crisp, hiding a soft center of cheese, cream, or sometimes semolina pudding. Once it’s out of the oven, it’s drenched in lightly scented syrup and topped with crushed pistachios.
In Dubai, you’ll find every style imaginable:
- Kunafa Nabulsia – the famous cheese-filled version from Nablus, topped with syrup.
- Cream kunafa – lighter and silky, often preferred by those who want less cheese.
- Turkish kunefe – served hot and paired with a scoop of ice cream for contrast.
Dubai’s diverse population means you can taste all these varieties without leaving the city, each café and bakery adding its own touch.
Best Places to Try Kunafa in Dubai
Here are the best food spots in dubai where you will the best Kunafa.
1. Al Samadi Sweets – Deira
If there’s one place that comes to mind when you think of traditional kunafa in Dubai, it’s Al Samadi Sweets. Located in the heart of Deira on Muraqqabat Street, this iconic bakery has been serving Arabic desserts for decades. For many residents, a visit to Al Samadi is like a trip down memory lane, as the shop has preserved the authentic flavors of the Levant.
Their kanafeh is prepared fresh every day, and you’ll often see trays coming out of the oven just in time for evening crowds. The cheese-filled Nabulsia kunafa is their highlight, stretchy, warm cheese under a crisp, golden topping, drizzled with just the right amount of syrup. It’s not overly sweet, which makes it perfect for those who want balance rather than sugar overload.
The shop itself is simple and unpretentious, but that’s the charm. People from all walks of life drop byfam, ilies picking up sweets after dinner, workers treating themselves after a long shift, or foodies hunting for the city’s best kanafeh. If you want a true old-school experience, Al Samadi should be at the top of your list.
2. Firas Sweets – Multiple Branches
Another name you’ll hear often when talking about kunafa in Dubai is Firas Sweets. With several branches across the city, it’s one of the most accessible places to grab a plate of this Middle Eastern favorite. Firas is particularly loved for being affordable and consistent, making it a go-to option for many locals.
Their kanafehcomes in different varieties, the classic cheese-filled, cream, and even versions topped generously with pistachios. The texture is spot on: crispy on the outside while staying gooey and soft inside. If you’re someone who likes your kanafehslightly heavier on the syrup, Firas won’t disappoint.
Because of its popularity, the atmosphere in Firas is always buzzing, especially in the evenings. Families often gather here for dessert after dinner, and you’ll even see tourists who’ve been tipped off by locals making their way in. It’s not a fine-dining spot, but rather a place that feels lively, welcoming, and very much part of Dubai’s food culture.
For anyone who wants a no-fuss, budget-friendly introduction to kunafa, Firas is the place to start.
3. Nablus – Traditional Kanafeh
As the name suggests, Nablus is dedicated to serving kunafa in its most authentic form, inspired by the city of Nablus in Palestine, the birthplace of this dessert. This spot has become a favorite for those who want the real deal, without too many modern twists.
The Kunafa Nabulsia here is cooked to perfection. The cheese is stretchy yet mild, balancing the sweetness of the syrup. The top layer has just the right crunch, and the addition of finely crushed pistachios gives it that extra texture. Unlike some places that go heavy on the sugar, Nablus keeps it balanced, letting the natural flavors shine.
What makes this place stand out is its focus. While many bakeries and restaurants offer kunafa alongside dozens of other sweets, Nablus has built its reputation almost entirely around this one dish. The experience feels more personal, and the quality is consistent.
If you’re looking for authentic Palestinian-style kunafa in Dubai, Nablus should definitely be on your food trail. It’s simple, nostalgic, and full of flavor that reminds you why this dessert became famous in the first place.
4. Abo Ali Restaurant & Café – Al Barsha & Al Garhoud
Abo Ali is another name that often pops up when talking about kunafa in Dubai, especially for those who love Kunafa Nabulsia. With branches in Al Barsha and Al Garhoud, it’s well located for both residents and visitors.
Their cheese kunafa is a star on the menu, baked until golden brown and finished with a drizzle of aromatic syrup. What sets Abo Ali apart is that their version is often served piping hot, straight from the oven to your table. That means you get to enjoy it at its best, gooey, crunchy, and fragrant all at once.
The café itself has a relaxed, cozy vibe, making it a nice spot to sit down and enjoy your dessert with friends or family. Pairing your kunafa with a cup of mint tea or Arabic coffee here is a small ritual that regulars swear by.
What’s also nice about Abo Ali is the portion size. It’s generous enough to share, but not so heavy that you’ll regret ordering it after a full meal. For those who enjoy their sweets in a laid-back setting, Abo Ali hits the right balance between quality, comfort, and authenticity.
5. Al Reef Lebanese Bakery – Karama
If you’ve ever had a late-night craving for kunafa in Dubai, chances are someone has pointed you toward Al Reef Lebanese Bakery. Open 24 hours, this spot is a lifesaver for anyone who wants freshly baked Arabic sweets at any time of day, or night.
Al Reef is more of a no-frills bakery than a restaurant, but that’s part of its charm. You’ll find a wide selection of Lebanese pastries here, but their kunafa is a standout. The cheese-filled kunafa is the crowd favorite, with a perfectly balanced sweetness and a topping that stays crisp even when you take it home.
What makes Al Reef special is its accessibility. It’s affordable, always busy, and feels like a community hub where people from all backgrounds drop in for a quick bite. Whether you’re grabbing a slice on the go or ordering a whole tray for family gatherings, Al Reef has you covered.
If you’re looking for a casual, budget-friendly kunafa stop in Karama, this is one place you’ll keep coming back to.
6. Wafi Gourmet – Downtown Dubai
Located inside The Dubai Mall, Wafi Gourmet brings a more premium experience to the kunafa scene. It’s a restaurant that celebrates Lebanese and Middle Eastern cuisine, and their dessert section is one of the most impressive in the city.
The kunafa here is beautifully presented, with a rich cheese filling and a golden crust that’s both crunchy and delicate. Since Wafi Gourmet caters to tourists and locals alike, the portion sizes are generous, making it ideal for sharing after a big meal.
The real draw here is the atmosphere. With views of the Dubai Fountain nearby, enjoying a plate of kunafa at Wafi Gourmet feels like a full-on Dubai experience. It’s pricier than other bakeries on this list, but the quality and setting make it worth the splurge.
If you want to treat visitors to a taste of kunafa in a refined setting, Wafi Gourmet is a must-try.
7. Turkish Village – Dubai Festival City
For those who want to try a different style, Turkish Village offers a mouthwatering Turkish kunefe that has its own unique twist. Unlike the traditional Levantine versions, Turkish kunefe is often served with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, creating a hot-and-cold contrast that’s impossible to resist.
At Turkish Village, the kunefe is baked in small copper pans, ensuring each portion has a crisp edge and gooey middle. The flavors are rich but not overpowering, with the ice cream adding a refreshing balance. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent yet comforting at the same time.
The restaurant itself is vibrant, decorated with Turkish lamps and traditional motifs, giving you a full cultural experience along with the food. If you’re someone who loves a little theater with your dining, this is the spot to enjoy kunafa with flair.
For a crunchy, cheesy, and ice-cream-topped version of kunafa, Turkish Village is where you should head.
Kunafa in Dubai – Quick Tips
- Best Time to Buy: Evening is usually when bakeries are at their busiest, with trays coming straight out of the oven. If you love it warm and fresh, visit after 7 PM.
- Budget vs. Premium: Places like Firas Sweets and Al Reef Lebanese Bakery are wallet-friendly, while Wafi Gourmet and Turkish Village lean toward the premium side. Both have their charm, so it depends on your mood (and your budget).
- Sharing is Caring: Kunafa is rich and filling. Unless you have a serious sweet tooth, it’s best shared with friends or family.
- Pair It Right: Traditional kunafa goes beautifully with Arabic coffee or mint tea. Turkish kunefe, on the other hand, is best enjoyed with a side of ice cream or hot Turkish tea.
- Takeaway vs. Dine-In: Most bakeries allow takeaway trays, but dining in at places like Turkish Village or Wafi Gourmet gives you the full experience.
Wrapping Up
In Dubai, the choices are endless, whether you’re standing in line at a bustling bakery in Deira, enjoying a casual late-night bite in Karama, or treating yourself to a premium version overlooking the Dubai Fountain. Each spot adds its own personality to this classic sweet, making the hunt for the best kunafa an adventure in itself.
So the next time your sweet cravings kick in, skip the ordinary and dive into a plate of golden, syrup-soaked kunafa. Whether you prefer the authenticity of Nablus, the budget-friendly charm of Firas, or the indulgence of Turkish Village, one thing’s for sure, Dubai has the perfect kunafa waiting just for you.
FAQs
1. Where can I find the most authentic kunafa in Dubai?
If you want authenticity, Nablus Traditional Kanafeh and Al Samadi Sweets are your best bets. Both places are known for preserving the original flavors of the Levant.
2. Is kunafa available for delivery in Dubai?
Yes, almost every spot on this list offers delivery through apps like Talabat, Deliveroo, and Zomato. You can even order whole trays for gatherings.
3. What’s the difference between kunafa and Turkish kunefe?
While both are similar, kunafa (Nabulsia style) is often cheesier and soaked in syrup, while Turkish kunefe is crispier and usually served hot with a scoop of ice cream on the side.
4. Which area of Dubai has the best variety of kunafa?
Deira and Karama are excellent for traditional, affordable kunafa, while Downtown Dubai and Festival City offer more upscale, modern versions.
5. Can I find unique or fusion kunafa in Dubai?
Absolutely! Some cafés experiment with Nutella kunafa, Lotus Biscoff kunafa, and even mini kunafa cups. While they’re not traditional, they’re popular among younger dessert lovers.
