Fujairah

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Healthy Eating

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Comprehensive Guide to Healthy Eating in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates

Fujairah, one of the seven emirates of the UAE, is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including mountains and beaches, and a slower-paced lifestyle compared to cities like Dubai or Abu Dhabi. While it is a smaller emirate, Fujairah offers a variety of options for maintaining a healthy diet, blending traditional Emirati cuisine with international influences. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate healthy eating in Fujairah.

1. Local Dietary Practices and Healthy Food Options

Fujairah’s cuisine is deeply rooted in Emirati traditions, which emphasize fresh, wholesome ingredients. The local diet often includes:

  • Fresh Seafood: Being a coastal emirate, Fujairah has an abundance of fresh fish and seafood, which are excellent sources of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Popular options include hammour (grouper), kingfish, and prawns, often grilled or baked.
  • Dates and Nuts: Dates are a staple in Emirati culture and are rich in fiber, vitamins, and natural sugars. They are often paired with nuts like almonds and walnuts for a healthy snack.
  • Grains and Legumes: Dishes like lentil soup (shorbat adas) and chickpea-based hummus are common and nutritious.
  • Vegetables and Salads: Traditional dishes like tabbouleh (parsley salad with bulgur) and fattoush (vegetable salad with toasted bread) are light and healthy.
  • Herbs and Spices: Emirati cuisine uses spices like turmeric, cardamom, and saffron, which not only enhance flavor but also have health benefits.

2. Healthy Restaurants and Cafés in Fujairah

While Fujairah is not as cosmopolitan as Dubai, it has a growing number of restaurants and cafés that cater to health-conscious diners. Here are some recommendations:

Healthy Restaurants

  1. Al Meshwar Restaurant

    • Cuisine: Middle Eastern and Lebanese
    • Healthy Options: Grilled meats, fresh salads, and mezze platters.
    • Cost: AED 50–100 per person.
    • Tip: Opt for grilled over fried dishes and pair with a side of tabbouleh or hummus.

  2. Sadaf Restaurant

    • Cuisine: Persian and Middle Eastern
    • Healthy Options: Grilled fish, saffron rice, and vegetable stews.
    • Cost: AED 60–120 per person.
    • Tip: Ask for less oil in your dishes and choose yogurt-based sides.

  3. Shakespeare and Co.

    • Cuisine: International
    • Healthy Options: Quinoa salads, avocado toast, and fresh juices.
    • Cost: AED 70–150 per person.
    • Tip: Check the menu for calorie-conscious options.

Cafés with Healthy Choices

  1. The Coffee Club

    • Options: Smoothie bowls, salads, and whole-grain sandwiches.
    • Cost: AED 40–80 per person.
    • Tip: Choose almond or oat milk for coffee and avoid sugary syrups.

  2. Starbucks (Various Locations)

    • Options: Low-calorie snacks, salads, and sugar-free drinks.
    • Cost: AED 20–50 per item.
    • Tip: Customize your drink to reduce sugar and calories.

3. Markets and Grocery Stores for Healthy Eating

For those who prefer to cook at home or want fresh ingredients, Fujairah has several markets and grocery stores offering healthy options:

Local Markets

  1. Fujairah Fish Market

    • What to Buy: Fresh seafood, caught daily.
    • Cost: AED 20–50 per kilogram, depending on the type of fish.
    • Tip: Visit early in the morning for the freshest catch.

  2. Fujairah Friday Market (Souq al Juma)

    • What to Buy: Fresh fruits, vegetables, and dates.
    • Cost: AED 10–30 per kilogram.
    • Tip: Bargain for better prices and choose seasonal produce for the best quality.

Supermarkets

  1. Lulu Hypermarket

    • What to Buy: Organic produce, whole grains, and health foods.
    • Cost: AED 50–150 for a week’s worth of groceries.
    • Tip: Look for the organic section for healthier options.

  2. Carrefour

    • What to Buy: Fresh fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and dairy alternatives.
    • Cost: AED 50–120 for a week’s worth of groceries.
    • Tip: Check for weekly promotions on healthy items.

  3. Organic Foods and Café (Dubai-based, but delivers to Fujairah)

    • What to Buy: Organic and gluten-free products, superfoods, and vegan options.
    • Cost: AED 100–200 for specialty items.
    • Tip: Use their delivery service for convenience.

4. Approximate Costs of Healthy Eating

  • Dining Out: AED 50–150 per meal, depending on the restaurant and dish.
  • Groceries: AED 200–400 per week for a small family focusing on fresh and healthy ingredients.
  • Specialty Health Foods: AED 20–50 per item for organic or imported products.

5. Cultural and Dietary Considerations

  • Halal Food: All food in Fujairah is halal, in accordance with Islamic dietary laws. Pork is not widely available, and alcohol is restricted to licensed venues.
  • Fasting During Ramadan: During the holy month of Ramadan, eating and drinking in public during daylight hours is prohibited. Plan meals accordingly and explore iftar (breaking fast) options, which often include healthy dishes.
  • Hospitality: Emirati culture is known for its hospitality. If invited to a local home, you may be offered traditional dishes. Politely accept and enjoy smaller portions if you are watching your diet.

6. Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Diet in Fujairah

  1. Stay Hydrated: The UAE’s climate is hot and dry, so drink plenty of water. Opt for bottled or filtered water.
  2. Choose Grilled Over Fried: Many traditional dishes are fried, but grilled options are widely available and healthier.
  3. Portion Control: Emirati meals can be generous. Share dishes or save leftovers for later.
  4. Incorporate Local Superfoods: Dates, fresh fish, and saffron are nutrient-rich and readily available.
  5. Plan Ahead: If you have dietary restrictions (e.g., vegan, gluten-free), research restaurants and grocery stores in advance.
  6. Exercise Moderation with Sweets: Emirati desserts like luqaimat (fried dough balls with syrup) are delicious but high in sugar. Enjoy them occasionally.

7. Conclusion

Fujairah offers a variety of healthy eating options, from fresh seafood and traditional Middle Eastern dishes to international cuisines and organic groceries. By exploring local markets, choosing grilled and fresh options, and being mindful of portion sizes, you can maintain a healthy diet while enjoying the unique flavors of this emirate. Whether dining out or cooking at home, Fujairah’s blend of tradition and modernity makes it easy to eat well and stay healthy.