Vegetarian & Jain Food in Abu Dhabi

Vegetarian and Vegan Food Guide to Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a bustling metropolis known for its luxurious lifestyle, stunning architecture, and diverse culinary scene. While Middle Eastern cuisine typically features a variety of meat dishes, Abu Dhabi has become increasingly friendly to vegetarians and vegans. Whether you’re a local, an expat, or a tourist, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your plant-based cravings. This guide will help you navigate the city’s offerings, from traditional vegetarian dishes to modern vegan eateries.

Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly Atmosphere

How Vegetarian-Friendly is Abu Dhabi?

Abu Dhabi is progressively embracing vegetarianism and veganism, reflecting global trends and the growing demand for plant-based diets. While traditional Emirati cuisine often includes meat, the city’s international dining scene caters to a variety of dietary preferences. Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, and dedicated vegetarian and vegan establishments are becoming more common.

Tip: While dining out, don’t hesitate to ask for vegetarian modifications. Most chefs are accommodating and willing to adjust their dishes.

Local Vegetarian Dishes

Falafel: Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas, often served in a pita with vegetables and tahini sauce.
Hummus: A creamy dip made from blended chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic.
Tabbouleh: A fresh salad made with parsley, tomatoes, mint, onion, and bulgur, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice.
Fattoush: A salad featuring mixed greens, tomatoes, radishes, and crispy pita croutons.
Manakish Zaatar: A type of flatbread topped with a mixture of thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds.

Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Abu Dhabi

1. Sanderson’s Cafe

Address: The Walk at Al Seef Resort & Spa, Khalifa Park, Abu Dhabi
Price Range: 50-100 AED ($14-$27)
Highlight: Known for its cozy atmosphere and extensive vegetarian menu, Sanderson’s offers dishes like avocado toast, quinoa salads, and smoothie bowls.

2. Evergreen Organics

Address: The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi
Price Range: 70-120 AED ($19-$33)
Highlight: This 100% plant-based cafe offers organic and locally sourced dishes, including vegan burgers, raw desserts, and nourishing bowls.

3. Sajway

Address: Al Muroor Road, Abu Dhabi
Price Range: 30-70 AED ($8-$19)
Highlight: A great spot for Lebanese cuisine, offering vegetarian-friendly options like falafel wraps and manakish.

4. The Raw Place

Address: Various locations, including Al Raha Beach and Al Maryah Island
Price Range: 40-80 AED ($11-$22)
Highlight: Specializes in cold-pressed juices and raw vegan food, perfect for a healthy meal on the go.

5. Circle Cafe

Address: Al Raha Gardens, Abu Dhabi
Price Range: 40-90 AED ($11-$25)
Highlight: Offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including salads, soups, and a delicious vegan chocolate cake.

Vegan Options in Abu Dhabi

While vegetarian options are widespread, fully vegan choices may require a bit more exploration. However, many restaurants are expanding their menus to include vegan dishes.

Vegan-Friendly Restaurants

6. Mosaic

Address: Nation Towers, Corniche, Abu Dhabi
Price Range: 50-150 AED ($14-$41)
Highlight: Offers a dedicated vegan menu with options like vegan kebabs and dairy-free desserts.

7. Sweet Greens

Address: Shams Boutik, Al Reem Island
Price Range: 45-100 AED ($12-$27)
Highlight: This health-focused cafe offers a variety of vegan salads, wraps, and smoothies.

8. The Vegan Cafe

Address: Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi
Price Range: 50-100 AED ($14-$27)
Highlight: A fully vegan cafe offering everything from vegan pizzas to plant-based desserts.

Jain Food Availability

Jain food, which excludes root vegetables and follows strict dietary laws, can be more challenging to find. However, Indian restaurants are your best bet for Jain-compatible meals.

Jain-Friendly Restaurants

9. Sangeetha Vegetarian Restaurant

Address: Hamdan Street, Abu Dhabi
Price Range: 20-50 AED ($5-$14)
Highlight: Offers a dedicated Jain menu with dishes like Jain thali and Jain dosas.

10. Saravanaa Bhavan

Address: Airport Road, Abu Dhabi
Price Range: 20-60 AED ($5-$16)
Highlight: This popular chain offers a wide range of Indian vegetarian dishes, with Jain options available upon request.

Communicating Dietary Needs

Useful Phrases in Arabic

Vegetarian: نباتي (Nabati)
Vegan: نباتي صرف (Nabati Sarf)
No meat, please: بدون لحم، من فضلك (Bedoon lahem, min fadlak)
No dairy, please: بدون منتجات الألبان، من فضلك (Bedoon montajat al-alban, min fadlak)
I am allergic to…: لدي حساسية تجاه… (Laday hasasiya tijah…)

Insider Tip: Learning a few key phrases can be helpful in communicating your dietary preferences, especially in local markets and smaller eateries.

Grocery Stores for Self-Catering

For those who prefer to cook at home or need snacks and essentials, Abu Dhabi has several grocery stores with a good selection of vegetarian and vegan products.

Recommended Grocery Stores

Lulu Hypermarket: Offers a wide variety of international and local products, including organic and plant-based options.
Carrefour: Features a dedicated section for health foods, including vegan and gluten-free products.
Spinneys: Known for its range of international brands and healthy food options, including fresh produce and vegan products.

Vegetarian Street Food

While street food in Abu Dhabi is often meat-focused, you can still find delicious vegetarian snacks.

Popular Vegetarian Street Foods

Samosas: Triangular pastries filled with spiced potatoes and peas.
Karak Chai: A spiced tea made with milk and cardamom, perfect for a mid-day break.
Baklava: A sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, nuts, and honey.

Restaurant Apps and Websites

To make your dining experience easier, consider using apps and websites that specialize in vegetarian and vegan options.

Helpful Apps/Websites

Zomato: Offers extensive restaurant listings with filters for vegetarian and vegan options.
Deliveroo: Provides delivery from a wide range of restaurants, including those with vegan menus.
Talabat: Another popular food delivery app with options to filter for dietary preferences.

Conclusion

Abu Dhabi is a vibrant city with a growing scene for vegetarian and vegan dining. From traditional Middle Eastern dishes to innovative plant-based creations, the city offers something for every palate. Whether you’re dining out or cooking at home, this guide should equip you with the knowledge and resources to enjoy a fulfilling vegetarian or vegan experience in Abu Dhabi. Remember, the key to enjoying the diverse culinary landscape is to explore, ask, and savor the flavors unique to this fascinating part of the world.