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Emirati food

Machboos

Machboos, also called fogah, is rice cooked in a spiced broth with meat, chicken or seafood. What sets it apart is loomi, dried lime, which adds a sour, floral note. It is linked to hospitality and generosity, and served at official events, holidays and feasts.

Updated October 2026 · Facts checked 22 October 2026

Machboos

At a glance

At a glance
Item Detail
Name in Arabic المجبوس
Type Main dish
Main ingredients Rice, meat, chicken or fish, spices, dried lime
When it is eaten Every day, and at official events, holidays and feasts

Source: Dubai Culture: Fogah (Machboos); Visit Abu Dhabi: Emirati dishes and where to try them1,2

The versions

Chicken and lamb are the everyday versions. Fish machboos is made with hammour or kingfish, and shrimp is also used. Mixed vegetables are part of the dish.2,1

Part of Emirati heritage

Dubai Culture describes machboos as a dish that shows the skill of Emirati women in traditional cooking. It is easy to make in bulk, which suits family meals and large gatherings.1,3

Sources

  1. Dubai Culture: Fogah (Machboos)
  2. Visit Abu Dhabi: Emirati dishes and where to try them
  3. Visit Ras Al Khaimah: 11 best UAE dishes to try

Facts checked 22 October 2026. Prepared by Invest-Emirates.ae for general information.

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