More Than Bling
As an American living in Dubai, I’ve been thinking of creating a visitor’s guide to the city. Not just a general guide, but a healthy Dubai guide, with experiences that I have found fulfilling and supportive of my well-being.
I recently dropped my parents off after their fourth or fifth visit to Dubai since I moved here over 20 years ago. They’re always amazed by how much the city (and my son) grows and evolves. While Dubai is known for its bling and “fancy” lifestyles seen on social media, it’s oh so much more than that.
While showing my parents around Dubai, I realized this was a great opportunity to share with them some of my favourite healthy Dubai experiences. So I thought I’d share this here with you, too!
Culture, Connection, and Creating Memories
The best moments? They weren’t about luxury. They were about culture, connection, and creating memories together — the kinds of experiences that feed the soul and boost our well-being.
We explored many of Dubai’s hidden gems, like a trip to the Flamingo Lakes to admire the desert’s quiet beauty and play chicken with oncoming camels. No camels or people were harmed or disturbed! We were just using the same desert trail. They seemed happy to see us when we said hello!
Camel at Flamingo Lakes, Dubai
Healthy Dubai Recommendations – Food and Fun
Just wanted to say upfront that I am not affiliated with any of the companies below, and of course I don’t receive any payments for these recommendations – these are just things I personally enjoyed in Dubai.
For wonderful food with plenty of fresh air, I took my parents to the top of Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah. We enjoyed the beautiful drive up the UAE’s tallest mountain, where we enjoyed lunch at 1484 by Puro with breathtaking views.
Every time they visit I take them on a food walking tour with Frying Pan Adventures, a business I’ve loved for years. Sisters Farida and Areva Ahmed have created the perfect way to experience the city’s true heart — beyond the bling — through its rich history, cultures, food and stories. It is my all-time favorite thing to do in Dubai, and the one thing I recommend the most. One of the tours included an iftar meal in the old souk area in Dubai. It was truly special.
For something a little different, I took my parents to a coffee tasting at Raw Coffee Company — a local cafe and coffee company favorite for good reason. Dubai residents know that Raw coffee is excellent, but after a deeper dive into coffee basics and learning about their roasting process, ethical sourcing, and the care they put into every batch, I walked away with even more respect for what they do. Dubai’s coffee culture runs deep, and Raw has a lot to do with that.
Throughout their trip, my parents sampled a lot of the viral sensation known as Dubai Chocolate. I was not aware of the trend for some time, and I honestly had never eaten any until a last-minute decision to order some to eat as I watched the 2025 US Presidential inauguration. I don’t have any in front of me to confirm, but I’m guessing one serving is about 25 carbohydrates or so. And, 100 grams has about 500 calories.
The original Dubai Chocolate from Fix Dessert Shop is excellent, but there is also another brand, Forever Ammaar, that has become a favorite of mine. I think one reason is that the chocolate squares are smaller than others, so the balance of kunefe and chocolate is perfect in every bite. As I ordered a batch for my parents to take home to family and friends, I learned that this is also a business with a cause. 20% of proceeds go to the Ammaar Dadlani Foundation to support children with terminal illness. A Dubai Chocolate with a very important mission.
And yes – chocolate is an indulgence. When eaten in moderation though, chocolate contains antioxidants and has other health benefits too! (Favor the dark stuff over the milk for the health benefits.)
New Experiences Nourish Us
Visits with family and travel aren’t just about food and fun. Experiences like these are also genuinely good for our health.
Immersing ourselves in new places and cultures stimulates the mind and helps us stay curious and engaged.
Navigating new places, getting lost, and learning new languages are also great for our cognitive health.
Time spent in nature lowers stress and boosts mood. And hello, oxygen!
Sharing meals and creating memories with loved ones supports emotional well-being — a reminder that joy and connection are just as vital to health as nutrition and exercise.
Travelling also helps us move without realizing the effort we are exerting. It is a fun form of movement. (With all the walking we did through all that eating, I did not gain weight despite trying everything!)
There is so much research that supports these points.
What Are Your Healthy Dubai Faves?
If you’re in Dubai (or planning a visit), I encourage you to explore the city’s soul — not just its sparkle. These are the moments that will stick with you long after the trip ends.
If you’ve not been to Dubai before, reach out with any questions! If you live here, do you have a local hidden gem you love? Or another one that is not in the UAE? I’d love to hear about it – leave a comment below. ✈️
Happy travels!
