From Shawarma to Showstoppers: 5 Dubai-Born Spots Taking Over the World
Started in the UAE, stamped their passport, and now serving sass (and seconds) from London to Monte Carlo.
Dubai doesn’t do small dreams, and apparently, neither do its restaurants.
While the city welcomes international imports like a seasoned host, some of our own culinary faves have quietly packed their knives and gone global. From ramen counters to Riviera-ready Greek dining, here are five UAE-born brands proving that what starts here doesn’t stay here.
GAIA
Greek goddess energy, but make it export-ready.
Founded by Chef Izu Ani, GAIA has long been one of Dubai’s most glamorous dining rooms. Think crisp white interiors, Aegean blues, and seafood so fresh it practically books its own yacht.
Now? GAIA is serving coastal chic in Monte Carlo, London, Doha and Marbella. Not bad for a concept that started in DIFC and decided it fancied a European summer.
Kinoya
From supper club to Harrods — but make it casual.
What began as a ramen-loving passion project in The Greens is now slurping its way through London. Kinoya, founded by Chef Neha Mishra, built its reputation on soulful bowls and zero pretence.
Now it’s inside Harrods’ Dining Hall. Yes, that Harrods. Proof that if your broth is good enough, borders don’t matter.
Filli
One cup of chai and global domination pending.
When Rafih Filli added saffron to a humble cup of milky tea, he probably wasn’t plotting world expansion. But Filli Cafe has since brewed its way across the UK, USA, India, Oman, Mauritius and beyond.
Never underestimate the power of a properly spiced cup of ambition.
Pickl
Fast food but even faster expansion.
Dubai’s cult-favourite burger joint Pickl turned the humble sando into a city obsession. (Chicken Caesar, we see you.)
After conquering Dubai’s cravings, Pickl made its first international move to Bahrain, because big, juicy burgers travel well.
The MAINE
The MAINE boasts New England vibes to European jet-set.
Dubai’s first homegrown seaside brasserie, The MAINE, brought East Coast glamour to JBR — oysters, jazz nights, and just enough sparkle.
Then it casually opened in Mayfair. And Ibiza. And Bodrum. Because when you master coastal chic in the desert, the actual coast is basically your playground.
Dubai may be a city of imports, but these five spots prove that they’ve got the goods to plate up worldwide.
