Fujairah

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Family-Friendly Dining

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Comprehensive Guide to Family-Friendly Dining in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates

Fujairah, one of the seven emirates of the UAE, is known for its serene beaches, rugged mountains, and a slower pace of life compared to cities like Dubai or Abu Dhabi. The dining scene in Fujairah is diverse, offering a mix of traditional Emirati cuisine, international flavors, and family-friendly establishments. Below is a detailed guide to help families navigate dining in Fujairah.

1. Popular Family-Friendly Restaurants in Fujairah

a. Al Meshwar Restaurant

  • Cuisine: Lebanese and Middle Eastern
  • Why It’s Family-Friendly: Al Meshwar is a spacious restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere for families. It offers a wide variety of dishes, including grilled meats, mezze platters, and fresh bread, which are perfect for sharing. The restaurant also has a play area for children.
  • Average Cost: AED 50–80 per person
  • Location: Hamad Bin Abdullah Road, Fujairah City

b. Sadaf Restaurant

  • Cuisine: Persian and Middle Eastern
  • Why It’s Family-Friendly: Known for its generous portions and flavorful dishes, Sadaf offers a cozy environment for families. The menu includes kebabs, stews, and rice dishes that appeal to both adults and children.
  • Average Cost: AED 40–70 per person
  • Location: Near Fujairah Corniche

c. McGettigan’s Fujairah

  • Cuisine: International (Irish Pub-style)
  • Why It’s Family-Friendly: While McGettigan’s is known as a pub, it has a family-friendly section and a kids’ menu. The restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere with hearty international dishes like burgers, pasta, and fish and chips.
  • Average Cost: AED 60–100 per person
  • Location: Fujairah Tennis and Country Club

d. The Copper Lobster (at Fairmont Fujairah Beach Resort)

  • Cuisine: Seafood
  • Why It’s Family-Friendly: This upscale restaurant offers a unique dining experience with fresh seafood and a kids’ menu. The resort setting makes it ideal for families looking for a special outing.
  • Average Cost: AED 150–250 per person
  • Location: Fairmont Fujairah Beach Resort, Dibba

e. Shakespeare and Co.

  • Cuisine: International
  • Why It’s Family-Friendly: Known for its whimsical décor and extensive menu, Shakespeare and Co. is a hit with families. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, from breakfast items to pasta, sandwiches, and desserts. High chairs and a kids’ menu are available.
  • Average Cost: AED 50–90 per person
  • Location: Fujairah City Centre Mall

f. Al Nokhada (at Radisson Blu Resort)

  • Cuisine: Emirati and Seafood
  • Why It’s Family-Friendly: This restaurant offers a taste of traditional Emirati cuisine in a family-friendly environment. The staff is attentive, and the menu includes options that cater to children.
  • Average Cost: AED 100–150 per person
  • Location: Radisson Blu Resort, Fujairah

2. Types of Cuisine Available in Fujairah

Fujairah’s dining scene reflects the multicultural nature of the UAE. Families can enjoy:

  • Emirati Cuisine: Dishes like machboos (spiced rice with meat or fish), harees (wheat and meat porridge), and luqaimat (sweet dumplings).
  • Middle Eastern Cuisine: Lebanese, Persian, and Syrian dishes, including shawarma, falafel, and kebabs.
  • Indian Cuisine: Popular dishes include biryani, curries, and tandoori items.
  • Seafood: Freshly caught fish and shellfish are widely available, given Fujairah’s coastal location.
  • International Cuisine: Italian, Chinese, American, and more are available in malls and hotels.

3. Average Costs

Dining in Fujairah is generally more affordable than in larger UAE cities like Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Casual Dining: AED 40–80 per person
  • Mid-Range Restaurants: AED 80–150 per person
  • Fine Dining: AED 150–300 per person
  • Kids’ Meals: AED 20–40 per child

4. Dining Procedures

  • Reservations: While casual restaurants don’t usually require reservations, it’s recommended to book a table at popular or fine-dining establishments, especially on weekends.
  • Dress Code: Fujairah is more conservative than Dubai. Modest clothing is appreciated, especially in family-oriented restaurants.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. A 10–15% tip is customary for good service.
  • Halal Food: All meat served in Fujairah is halal, in accordance with Islamic dietary laws.

5. Child-Friendly Amenities

Many restaurants in Fujairah cater to families with children. Common amenities include:

  • High Chairs: Available in most family-friendly restaurants.
  • Kids’ Menus: Many establishments offer smaller portions and child-friendly options like pasta, chicken nuggets, and fries.
  • Play Areas: Some restaurants, especially those in malls or resorts, have designated play areas or activities for children.
  • Baby Changing Facilities: Found in malls and larger restaurants.

6. Cultural and Local Considerations

  • Dining Hours: Lunch is typically served from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, and dinner from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM. During Ramadan, restaurants may only open after sunset for Iftar.
  • Alcohol: Alcohol is only served in licensed venues, such as hotels and resorts. Family-friendly restaurants outside these venues do not serve alcohol.
  • Sharing Food: Sharing dishes is common in Middle Eastern culture, making it easy for families to enjoy meals together.
  • Respect for Local Customs: Avoid public displays of affection and loud behavior, as these may be considered disrespectful.

7. Recommendations for Visitors and Residents

  • Explore Local Cuisine: Don’t miss the opportunity to try Emirati dishes like machboos and luqaimat.
  • Visit Malls for Variety: Fujairah City Centre Mall and Lulu Mall have food courts with a wide range of family-friendly options.
  • Opt for Hotel Restaurants: Many hotels in Fujairah have excellent dining options with child-friendly amenities.
  • Plan Around Prayer Times: Be mindful that some restaurants may close briefly during prayer times.

8. Final Tips

  • Weekend Crowds: Fridays and Saturdays are weekends in the UAE, so restaurants may be busier during these times.
  • Outdoor Dining: During the cooler months (November to March), many restaurants offer outdoor seating with beautiful views of the mountains or sea.
  • Ask for Recommendations: Hotel staff and locals are often happy to recommend family-friendly dining spots.

Fujairah offers a relaxed and welcoming dining experience for families, with plenty of options to suit all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re a visitor or a resident, this guide will help you make the most of your family meals in this charming emirate.