Life
With a plethora of restaurants available in Dubai, it can be hard to choose where to go.
However, we’ll happily go to any place that’s approved by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
Here’s ten restaurants in the emirate that are approved by His Highness.
Alaya
Known for his love for food, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has given Chef Izu Ani’s latest restaurant a royal thumbs up. In a video shared on Chef Izu’s Instagram, Sheikh Mohammed is seen exchanging a handshake with the restauranteur outside new venue Alaya, whilst also sharing a few moments of laughter together. Masterminded by Chef Izu and one of Emirates Man’s former cover stars Evgeny Kuzin, the concept is nothing short of extraordinary, with a combination of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences.
CÉ LA VI
This world-famous Singaporean restaurant received the royal seal of approval after Sheikh Mohammed visited in February 2020. Known for their contemporary Asian dishes and incredible views of Dubai’s sweeping skyline, the restaurant is located on the 54th floor terrace of Address Sky Views. Posing against the outdoor infinity pool, this restaurant is one of the most popular fine-dining spots in Dubai.
Flow
Known for their wide range of vegan, dairy-free and gluten options, this restaurant has branches all across Dubai. As a healthy eating hub in the emirate, the ruler of Dubai visited along with his son, Sheikh Hamad and enjoyed a cup of coffee while interacting with the staff.
Shanghai Me
The Ruler of Dubai was seen dining out at Shanghai ME located in DIFC with others in September 2020. This establishment is famed for its culinary classics of East Asia, which all have a playful twist.
Gaia
In 2021, Sheikh Mohammed was spotted out in DIFC at Gaia, a restaurant founded by Chef Izu Ani. The venue serves up a fresh take on Mediterranean cuisine including seafood orzo, baked feta cheese, indulgent truffle potatoes and the unmissable mille-feuille that is nothing like you’ve ever tried before – trust us.
Zuma
As one of the top restaurants in Dubai, it’s no surprise Zuma has Sheikh Mohammed’s stamp of approval, who is believed to have visited the establishment on multiple occasions. Famed for its contemporary Japanese cuisine, Zuma has been a leader in the Dubai F&B space for over 12 years.
Siraj
Known for its authentic Emirati cuisine with a contemporary twist, Siraj is another Sheikh Mohammed-approved restaurant. It’s located within the Souk Al Bahar, the world-famous Arabian Souk overlooking the Dubai Fountain.
Farzi Cafe
His Highness has previously been spotted at this famous restaurant in City Walk known for its fabulous Indian cuisine.
Fish Beach Taverna
This Mediterranean beach hotspot will transport you to Greece in no time. With an Aegean menu of Turkish food with the stunning backdrop of the Arabian night sky. This fine-dining seafood has welcomed both Sheikh Mohammed and Sheikh Hamdan in a course of two days as both the royals enjoyed various dishes across the menu in a relaxed setting. Located by the peaceful shores of Le Meridian Mina Seyahi, this restaurant is most definitely a must-visit to enjoy with friends and family.
Baku Café
When opened in 2017, Sheikh Mohammed paid a visit to this eatery that pays homage to the cuisine from Azerbaijan. As a popular dining spot, this royal was amongst the first to visit this traditional restaurant. Situated in the heart of City Walk, there a variety of dishes to try such as the the cafe’s baklava, stuffed vine leaves, and a delicious plate of lamb.
